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Evolution

Issue Four

February 2022

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Table of Contents

Everything You Need To Know About Omicron

Aoife McEvoy

From temperature checks in the morning to mysterious disappearances from class, it is no secret that COVID-19 is once again on the rise, this time with a new variant: Omicron. Although research is still being conducted about this variant, it is clear that it is to be taken seriously. With Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci predicting that cases will “peak in mid February” and then decrease, it’s important that we learn how to protect ourselves.

Omicron is a variant of Coronavirus which has been spreading quickly throughout the U.S. in recent months. It has been reported that Omicron symptoms are significantly less severe than those of the original Coronavirus strain. But, the most significant difference is how contagious the strain is. The amount of virus detected in those infected with Omicron is much higher than any other COVID strain, meaning this strain is spread much more easily. 

Students getting temperatures checked before being admitted into the Tower
Photo by Emily Buschelman

At OCSA, COVID protocols have been changing to accommodate the recent wave of cases. If students test positive, they may return to school after quarrantining for 5 days if their symptoms have improved, they have not had a fever for 24 hours and they have a negative COVID-19 test. If someone close to you contracts COVID, you must only quarantine if the close contact has symptoms. To find out if you have contracted the virus, you can sign up on the OCSA COVID-19 Dashboard to test weekly on Mondays in Symphony Hall. Since OCSA switched testing companies, students will now need to re-register for testing with OmniPathology. Once you are registered, you no longer need to have an appointment, you can just show up during any of the on-campus testing windows. Additionally, there are also new performance protocols. OCSA policy states that anyone attending an OCSA performance must wear medical grade N95, KN95 or KF94 masks. Student performers and crew members must participate in weekly COVID19 testing. OCSA has also implemented temperature checks every morning. According to students, there are mixed opinions on this new procedure. Mateo Zarate (Ballroom ‘22) says “I think the temperature checks are an inaccurate way to measure COVID because not everyone who has COVID has a fever. Also, I see a bunch of people skip the checks and walk right into the buidlings”. Ava Mitchell (IA ’22) also has some critiques for OCSA’s overall COVID safety:“You walk through these crowds of people all the time in these really small spaces. It doesn’t feel COVID safe”. “The stairs are like a petri dish for COVID” Zarate adds. However, students recognize the school’s efforts. “I think OCSA is doing a good job with COVID protocols, they just need to be enforced more” Mitchell says. 

Although it may feel like we are starting COVID procedures all over again, the CDC suggests keeping the original guidelines in mind as well. As long as we all do our part, we can be on track to a healthier future for America.

At OCSA, Even Substitute Teachers Dabble in the Arts

Tabitha Finamore

Daniel Marino has been a beloved OCSA substitute since early 2019, but he became closer to the OCSA family during the fall of this year when he was the long-term substitute for APUSH teacher, Bianca Nield. Marino is thankful for his time teaching OCSA students, expressing how he’s "extremely impressed with OCSA and consider[s] it an honor to be here. On a human cultural level, the arts are so important as the artists confront society with truth, offer us glimpses of beauty and reflect who we are as a society—our values and our shortcomings—through creative expression”. Marino admits that he wishes he knew about OCSA when he was in high school because he would have wanted to be a part of the Integrated Arts conservatory, spending more time exploring different forms of art, and being surrounded by like-minded, motivated students. He continues, “ As someone who wants to see our culture elevated and enhanced through the arts, [he] find[s] the work OCSA does to train the next generation of artists to be inspiring." 

Album cover for “Elements”

Photo Courtesy of Daniel Marino

Marino may relate so well to OCSA students as he is an artist himself; he explores a variety of mediums such as visual art, acting, writing and music. Last year, amidst the intensity of lockdown, Marino took it upon himself to create a musical album that he has been thinking about for “what [felt] like a lifetime.” When asked to describe his anticipated album Elements, Marino explained that the music is hard to describe and harder still to place within a specific musical genre, with some songs resembling the pop genre while others may fit better in spoken word. He refers to his musical work as "deconstructed music" because the lyrics and the instrumentals are completely separate within each song on the album.

 Elements essentially a modern retelling of William Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet”. Marino rewrites all of the dialogue from the classic play while keeping it in iambic pentameter. The name of Marino's album refers to how each of Shakespeare's original characters is additionally represented by an element. The dialogue Marino wrote is often spoken rather than sung and each character is represented both by dialogue and by an element. For instance, Juliet in Marino's version of the tale is represented by water because in Shakespeare's original she states that her "bounty is as boundless as the sea.”

After listening to Marino's album, I can confirm that Marino’s pieces are very avant-garde. Marino wrote, produced, directed, arranged and theorized the album and, in some songs he plays instruments along with his band "The Devero Sound Experience." The album also features a cast made up of friends and experienced artists, such as Arielle Jacobs who played Juliet/Water, she played Jasmine in Disney's Broadway production of Aladdin. 

Behind the scenes of Marino's band, "The Devero Sound Experience" recording the album "Elements."

Photo courtesy of Daniel Marino

Something I found particularly interesting about the album was the musical rules Marino breaks and the ones he chooses not to. He plays a wide variety of instruments and admits that one of his hobbies is purchasing unfamiliar instruments and learning to play them. Marino has a good grip on songwriting and music theory. While he does follow the rules to keep music appealing to the ear, he likes following his intuition. He says, "we [as artists] need to learn the rules to know when to break them, which is why someone can be considered a true artist." Marino follows the pop tradition in sampling older songs. In “Elements” he references Nasa’s golden record, voyager in what he calls "The Main Earth Song" by building the music around the cadence of voyager’s unedited nature sounds. 

Like most artists, Marino hopes that his work will have a lasting effect on those around him. It makes sense that Elements with its variety of influences and unique riffs off older experimental tracks doesn't fit within a genre, but I wondered who Marino's ideal audience is. Marino reveals that there isn't a specific audience he is searching for. Ocsa students are excited to hear the music created by one of their teachers. Kassedi Graefenstiener (11th grade MT) states that, “[she] is looking forward to seeing what Mr. Marino created, it was really interesting getting to know a teacher and then finding out that we had similar interests; I find it inspiring”. Marino especially wants his music to be discussed because he believes that the Tale of Romeo and Juliet at its core is people choosing to love one another despite potential consequences. Marino believes that we need more people that inspire us to choose love rather than pride, regardless of others' opinions.

Lunar New Year Around the World

Melody Wu

Art by Melody Wu

Celebrated by more than one billion people and sparking the largest annual human migration in the world, Lunar New Year is undoubtedly one of the most popular and anticipated holidays of the year. According to the Lunar calendar, the date of the New Year depends on the new moon and falls sometime in February—this year, it’s February 1st. The festival marks a time of reflection, hope and new beginnings; it also fosters unity by bringing families together with a series of rituals, feasts and entertainment. Although there are generalities to this Asian custom, let us delve into the distinct attributes and cultural implications that Lunar New Year has in different countries. 

Perhaps the most influential and long-standing adaptation of Lunar New Year is Chunjie, also known as the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year. This 15-day celebration begins with a legend: long ago, a group of villagers was attacked by a mythical monster named Nian (year). Since then, people have adopted the tradition of wearing red attire, participating in lively festivals and setting off fireworks to drive it away. Chunjie is also known for its 12-year zodiac cycle. This year’s zodiac is the water tiger, known as the king of all beasts as well as a symbol of bravery and strength. During reunions, friends and relatives wish each other good fortune by giving hongbao (red packets) replete with cash. On the last day, the Chinese Lantern Festival commences; people parade the streets holding lanterns and, afterward, eat a Chinese delicacy called tangyuan (rice balls). 

Korean Lunar New Year—or Suhl—also places an emphasis on family and seizing good fortune. One of the principal focuses of Suhl is sebae, a tradition centered around filial piety. In this ancient custom, children bow in front of their elders with their hands touching the ground while wearing hanbok, traditional Korean clothing. Following sebae, elders give money envelopes to the children, wishing them good profits and happiness. Afterward, charye—a practice involving setting out a table of delicious food—is performed for worshipping ancestors. A popular folk game played by children and adults alike during the festival is yut nori: to play, several teams throw wooden sticks into the air, and the side on which they land on a board indicates how far one can go. 

Tểt is the Vietnamese variation of Lunar New Year that celebrates the arrival of spring and familial bonding. Before the new year starts, people thoroughly clean their houses and the graves of their ancestors to prevent the “sweeping” away of good luck on New Year’s. A common belief in Vietnam is that the first visitor a family receives determines their fortune for the rest of the year, discouraging people from entering others’ houses unless invited. Like in other countries, exuberant festivals are customary; firecrackers, drums and gongs are used to ward off evil spirits and a popular lion dance called mua lan is performed. Households living in different regions tend to adorn their house with a specific type of indigenous blossom, which generally symbolizes good fortune and joy. 

In addition to those living in the aforementioned countries, Lunar New Year can be celebrated anywhere in the world by Asian communities. Although we often see traditions of the past dying out to make room for the modern age, there are some—such as Lunar New Year—that won’t easily fade away.

Valentine’s Day: A Hoax?

Celeste Valadez, Lara Bilgore

When it comes to the month of February, there is one major thought that comes to mind: Valentine’s Day. A holiday that capitalizes on love when in reality it is a holiday that just makes people feel lonelier. February 14th may seem like the best day on earth if you're in a relationship, but what if the holiday itself was not as it seems? 

The original intent of this day was to celebrate love but over time, businesses have taken over the holiday by capitalizing on it. Valentine's Day is commercialized and profited off of by major brands and companies; at a certain point, chocolate boxes, roses, cards and teddy bears come across as cliche. It’s now normal to see couples use these basic presents as terms of endearment. From an outsider’s perspective, having one day to appreciate love makes it seem as if relationships are ingenuine. If you really love somebody, why do you need a box of chocolates to prove it? 

The holiday depreciates real relationships by stereotyping them into being something perfect. There is this need to be the best significant other as possible. Many people rush to find a Valentine the day it becomes February 1st—sorry to break it to you but, these relationships barely last a month. Perhaps it is nice to be showered with gifts and receive affection from a significant other, but is it really worth it to put yourself through the rush of finding someone just in the knick of time? 

Watching all the couples spending time together, you can't help but feel lonely on the one day of the year where love is constantly surrounding you. It’s dreadful but let's be real—we all wish that was us. One student (she/her ‘23) shares how the thought of this celebration is “kind of irritating, especially when surrounding couples ‘glorify’ their relationship.” Almost everyone secretly wants to be in a relationship and when other people's relationships are shoved down our throats, much to our dismay: we are jealous. Galentines and familial appreciation are great options, but either way, the display of this celebration is not always exactly the most ideal for everyone.

We all sit there waiting patiently for our turn, hoping that someone else likes us without trying to seem too desperate, but you can only be hopeful for so long. I guess there is a right time for everyone, but it still sucks. The idea of wholesomeness on Valentine’s Day may often get mixed up with unhealthy commercialization, which makes us crave love and affection even more. Of course, this was the best experience for most, if not, everyone 10 years ago in elementary school when sharing candy and valentine grams strengthened bonds with others in the class. The exchange of Fun Dips, Sweethearts and humorous messages have provided unforgettable feelings for everyone. Leaving this as part of our expectations may worsen the self-depreciation, but the positive memories are worth holding onto and focusing on, for it offers hope in finding the best person for us.

Valentine’s Day Around the World Told by Bunnies

Lauren Kim

Art by Lauren Kim


This is a secret, but I bought a box of 50 Ferrero Rochers and Kinder Joy eggs in January for myself. Since I’m not scheduled for any romantic dates or kisses under the moonlight, I decided to write an article on how different countries around the world celebrate Valentine’s Day. I called my international bunny friends from Wales, South Korea, Ghana and Argentina. I hope you’re as excited as I am. And if you’re reading this with your bae, I hope y’all find out you guys are related or something. 

Wales 

I believe our country celebrates Valentine’s Day in the most unique way! We call it the Day of San Dwynwen, celebrated January 25th. This special day is St. Dwynwen’s birth date, who is the Welsh patron saint of lovers. This makes her our equivalent to St. Valentine. St. Dwynwen was a fourth century princess who experienced unlucky love. She later became a nun and prayed for true lovers to have better luck than she did in the past. On this day, many lovers give handcrafted wooden spoons to each other and enjoy romantic meals together. We also have our own special hug called a cwtch.

South Korea

Our Valentine’s Day tradition has three parts! First, we celebrate the original Valentine’s Day, February 14th, where girls give chocolates to boys. Second, there is White Day, March 14th, where boys give lollipops to girls. It’s a day where people give reciprocal gifts. It originated in Japan, and it is now celebrated in South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia and other countries in Asia. Finally, we have a whole day for singles, April 14th. It’s a day for people who didn’t receive any sweets to eat Jjajangmeon, a popular noodle dish served with black bean paste. 

Ghana 

In Ghana, we celebrate National Chocolate Day, February 14th. It was created by the government to increase tourism back in 2007 since we are one of the largest cocoa-producing countries in the world. Later on, the ministry proposed establishing a cocoa museum as well. In addition to this, the initiative aimed to shift the youth’s methods of expressing love from engaging in sexual activities to giving loved ones chocolate. On this day, we can attend different music festivals, concerts and visit restaurants with fancy themed menus. 

Argentina

Unlike many other countries, we have a “Week of Sweetness” from July 1st to the 7th. It was established from a candy advertisement by Arcor (an Argentine confectioner founded in 1951). Ever since they created the phrase “A candy for a kiss,” it became part of our Valentine's tradition. During this week, couples shower each other with various sweets and return them with kisses. Most restaurants are booked to full capacity and candy sales increase about 20 percent as well. 

Obviously, these aren’t the only ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, because there are so many more traditions that I’ll have to look into. Single or not, I hope this year we can all celebrate love and friendship with chocolate and festivities. I really have to go back to finish my Ferrero Rochers while crushing candy hearts, but happy Valentine’s Day, everybunny!

The Life, The Legend: Susan B. Anthony

Michael McDonald

Ratified more than a century ago, the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote. On February 15th, we honor and celebrate this movement on the birthday of it’s keystone activist, Susan B. Anthony, who committed her life to social equality. She not only traveled the country speaking in favor of women’s suffrage, but started her extensive career in social change collecting anti-slavery petitions. With her background coming from a Quaker upbringing, she found priority in temperance and persistence. She was, in short, the quintessential activist. So, as we acknowledge her activism and undeniable ability to induce social evolution, what can we learn from her activism, and how can we apply that to modern day issues? First, let’s take a look at some of her efforts. 

Anthony’s movements started with her abolition activism, where she, along with Elizabeth Cady Stanton, traveled around the country delivering speeches. Though it was against cultural norms for women to deliver speeches in the public forum, she spread her messages verbally and garnered respect from many individuals. Some of Anthony’s speeches became increasingly influential and popular, such as her “Declaration of Rights” speech, written by Anthony, Stanton and suffragist Matilda Joslyn Gage. The simple yet powerful speech spoke volumes at the 1876 Centennial of our Nation’s Independence, where Anthony led a protest.

Her motions for change only came to fruition years after the climax of her activism, but it eventually arrived. Despite the tough and fairly concrete social climate, she was able to persuade others by appealing to the morals of her audience (Ethos for all you Lit & Comp teachers out there). As a more open society today—much more accepting than in the 19th century—the importance of persistent and truly impactful activism to affect necessary change is at an all-time high.

We’re in an age where information, correct and incorrect, is easily accessed and even more easily spread. I think that it’s important to look to the predecessors of our activism for inspiration. This requires an effort from both the messenger and the audience; by delivering well-written motions for change responsibly and to an audience that is willing to accept, we can truly create a world in which we the people can decide the kind of world we live in. And more importantly, by accepting this information with grace despite the fact that they may differ with our own opinions, we can become more understanding and accepting of the change that will benefit us all. In the words of Anthony, “organize, agitate, educate must be our war cry.” 

Encanto: Magical Realism Set in the Birthplace of Magical Realism

Mia Soumbasakis

This article contains “Encanto” spoilers

From the lack of a traditional villain to the mesmerizing magic of the Madrigal home and Dolores’s voice, I was quickly endeared to Encanto. As a lover of character-driven stories rather than plot-driven ones, I was pleased to find the Encanto characters and their histories were the unraveling plot, with a looming and recognizable story of migration connecting them. The magic was like golden thread woven throughout, accentuating the heart of the movie.

To me, magical realism is loosely defined as writing where magic is used as a literary tool to aid the emotion in the story rather than as an aesthetic choice. Unlike in most Disney movies, like Raya and the Last Dragon, where the magic is mainly meant to dazzle the viewer, Encanto’s intimate magic is very much the meat of the story, with the magic of the house and candle itself representing the “magic” of collective healing in the face of forced displacement. 

The powers each character have often reflect inner conflict or their relation to the family, which, in the case of the grandchildren, meant living with the effects of generational trauma and pressure to continue sustaining the community (e.g. Louisa’s strength, Isabela’s beauty and grace). The villain causing the characters to lose their magic is not a tangible being—it’s the pain of losing one’s home and how that trickles down into the new one. This storyline resonated with me deeply, as many of the unrealistic expectations my family places on me stems from the migration of my grandparents. Everything they have done for me I am supposed to do better––a combination of the efforts of all who came before me.

The magical realism in Encanto adds the story to a growing timeline of works which explain racialized experience. The genre was born in Encanto’s setting, Colombia, where the godfather of magical realism, Gabriel García Márquez, used magic in his stories to mimic real-world anti-imperialist sentiment. The climax of One Hundred Years of Solitude, Márquez’s most popular book, is a reflection of a massacre commonly known as the Banana Massacre which happened at banana plantations around the time Márquez was born. Workers who striked against the US-based United Fruit Company were killed by Colombian troops, leaving a death toll ranging from 47 to the thousands. One Hundred Years of Solitude deals with the massacre itself and also the denial of it after the fact, as a whirlwind perpetuated by a fictional American company owner “Mr. Brown” destroys both Macondo, the town of the book, and the memories of the people. 

Since Márquez, Toni Morrison is another writer who has used magical realism to explore racial trauma. In Beloved, a book set in the Reconstruction Era, the main character Sethe is literally haunted by her earlier life as an enslaved person. The story follows her and the ghost of her daughter, who Sethe killed just to ensure she wouldn’t have to endure enslavement. Much like in many of Márquez’s stories, the magic is so incredibly dark and haunting that it’s hard to consider it “magic” in the way most people think of magic (fairies, pixie dust, etc.).

Abuela and Mirabel from Encanto

Photo Courtesy of Disney

It’s quite easy to see Encanto as fantastically magical, however, which is possibly due to the ambiguity of the beginning, where Pedro Madrigal is killed in a violent conflict while he, his wife and children, and many other families were forced to leave their homes and cross a river. Upon further research, I discovered that Pedro and Alma (Abuela) were supposed to be fleeing their homes because of the Thousand Day War, a conflict between plantation owners and the Colombian government in which 100,000 died. The US backed Panama’s secession from Colombia after the war to invade the country and create the Panama Canal. Perhaps the beginning of Encanto is intentionally nonspecific so that anyone with experience with generational racial trauma can self-insert, or perhaps the vagueness is supposed to allow the audience to understand the various and ongoing instances of displacement in Colombia’s history. 

It is likely that the magical home and community in Encanto are meant to represent the US, painting the country as a savior which provides asylum to displaced people rather than the reason they are displaced in the first place, a twisted narrative which often haunts migration stories. Since the start of the United Fruit Company, the United States has used Colombia and bordering nations as a source of mining and agricultural resources, enacting militaristic policies, under the guise of the “War on Drugs,” especially in the second half of the 20th century, which often have the greatest effect on peasants and farmworkers who live on fertile land. To learn more about this process, The Open Veins of Latin America by Eduardo Galeano offers a detailed history of resistance to enslavement, colonization, and imperialism in Latin America.

The way Disney uses magical realism in Encanto allows for the very real story of post-migration to strike the hearts of viewers, but purposefully leaves the reason for that migration open-ended for the movie to appeal to a larger audience and therefore be more profitable. On the whole, I loved the experience of watching the movie and definitely will never get “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” out of my head.

The Riveting Return of Euphoria

Elena Levin

Laptop and TV screens glowed purple January 9th as millions of teens and adults anticipated the arrival of Euphoria season two. The first season of this sensational show premiered June 16, 2019, and has only grown in popularity since. Whether it be through depictions of addiction, assault, abuse or typical teenage heartbreak, Euphoria captivates audiences from varying walks of life. 

Apart from content, Euphoria’s aesthetics impart a majority of the series’ magnetism. Doniella Davy––head makeup artist––experiments with glitter, bold liners and vibrant eyeshadows, landing her the Emmy award for “Outstanding Contemporary Makeup.” The show’s costumes also offer its characters an opportunity to further explore and develop their identity––an arc that is most prevalent within Barbie Ferreira’s (Kat Hernandez) character. 

Another aspect of charm lies in its exceptional cast. The show’s star Zendaya (Rue Bennett)––Primetime Emmy award winner for “Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series”––works alongside debut actress Hunter Schafer (Jules Vaughn). In fact, Schafer is not the only member of the cast to have made her acting debut; Angus Cloud (Fezco) portrays a compassionate drug dealer and Dominic Fike (Elliot) is introduced as a new student to East Highland High School in season two. 

Appearances aside, Euphoria’s soundtrack is a fan favorite, overflowing with rhythmic synth beats and dreamy melodies. The show’s lead composer, Labrinth, was honored with the Emmy award for “Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics” for “All For Us feat. Zendaya”––the series finale’s haunting track. 

Euphoria’s Season 1 promotional poster

Courtesy of HBO

However, relatability is something often debated among high-school-age viewers; for instance, Lucas Sanchez (IA ‘22) commented on Euphoria’s content: “Drug use and alcohol use in teen culture is for sure relatable. And other aspects like the characters’ personalities and mannerisms are as well; but, some are definitely exaggerated. Like, no one that I have personally seen shows up to school looking like they are ready for an Instagram shoot? I don't know, it's an interesting mix.”

Additionally, something that troubles viewers is how graphic the show can be. With nearly every episode including some form of violence, substance abuse and nudity, many debate the ethics of Euphoria. “A lot of these characters are teenagers, 17 to 18 year-olds––so my age–– it's just weird to see people of the same age hypersexualized, like, every episode. I get what Sam [Levinson]—the creator of the show—is trying to present, but I think it could be executed in a more realistic manner,” said Sanchez.

Yet, the expanse that’s covered makes this series all the more groundbreaking, as expressed by Owen Tucker (MT ‘22): “I love the show because it definitely shows the ups and downs most high school teens go through everyday. Dealing with different issues like sexual assault, teen pregnancy, alcohol and drug abuse, depression, anxiety etc… there’s so many elements intertwined within the plot that you sometimes forget you’re watching a show.”

Even as the series reinvents itself––such as shooting entirely on film for the new season––its fans and viewers continue to await each episode every Sunday on HBO Max. Described as “high school but on steroids” by Hannah Kotkin (ACT ‘22), Euphoria offers a surrealist escape from the tedium of the academic experience. 

Nevertheless, there is some semblance of truth as to the identities and relationships developed in the show. What Levinson––Euphoria’s writer, director and executive producer––attempted to achieve with the show was not so much as accuracy as it is a critique of teenagers’ self perception. In the words of Regan Mading (IA ‘23): “I find Euphoria to be a very profound look into the high school experience. Something the writer has said is that the show represents how high schoolers see themselves, not necessarily how high school actually is. I think that is very accurate to the high school experience.”

Queer Love or the Lack Thereof

Jacqueline Blom

Roses are red, violets are blue, I’m so tired of watching 10 Things I Hate About You. This movie and others like The Before Series and The Notebook seem to be staples on romantic movie lists. It’s not that I have anything against these movies, they all lack non-heterosexual love. Having to filter through queer romance movies can be exhuasting, and for that reason, I’ve created a list ranking queer pieces, ranging from films you must watch to experience the epitome of love to films to avoid at all costs. 


  1. The Handmaiden (2016) “A divine lesbian experience… especially the thimble part.”- Mia Soumbasakis (CW ‘22)

  2. Weekend (2011) “Has a rich intimacy that is very hard to reproduce in a cinematic way. It really illustrates the quietness of the queer experience. Beautifully written and shot with well developed characters.”- Andy Choi (CW ‘22)

  3. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019) “Very sophisticated movie that relied a lot on visual storytelling and non verbal cues. The scene that comes to mind is their first kiss where they both have to take off their scarves to kiss.”- Avery Cather (FTV ‘22)

  4. Moonlight (2016) “All my homies hate La La Land.”- Kavin Mohan (CW ‘22)

  5. Happy Together (1997) “It’s a film you can get lost in, depicting two people who simultaneously love and destroy each other, surrounded by ridiculously beautiful dreamy cinematography. It’s also really gay.”- Kaon Suh (CW ‘22)

  6. But I'm a Cheerleader (1999) “#1 Clea Duvall is super hot. Overall the movie is very visually pleasing and I love how it’s very gendered in an ironic way.”- Morgan Magallanes (BCD ‘22)

  7. Brokeback Mountain (2005) “It tells you what it’s like to be a gay cowboy. And as a gay cowgirl, I understand their struggles.”- Avalon Almada (MT ‘22)

  8. Saving Face (2004) “I liked how Alice Wu made the movie more intimate by leaving room for silent moments with emotional nuances to play out…It felt like a love letter to the experience of being a queer Asian woman, was one of the first movies I saw that showed a lesbian Asian couple and it meant a lot to see that representation. Lynn Chen is also cute.” - Lauren Mei (ACT ‘23)

  9. Ammonite (2020) “Two lesbians collecting rocks with not enough music in the background.” - Elena Levin (IA ‘22)

  10. The Half of It (2020) “Didn't seem realistic. It was a waste of time. The representation was pandering.” - Courtland Jeffries (CW ‘22)

  11. Blue is the Warmest Color (2013) No one cared to comment why it belongs here, but it definitely belongs here.   

  12. Love Simon (2018) “I felt exploited watching this movie. I didn’t like the book. It gave 2010 millennial white feminist trying to understand and co-opt queerness.” - Gabriel Chen (PM ‘22)

  13. Call Me By Your Name (2017) Receives far too much praise. Disregarding how it romanticizes grooming in queer relationships, it does have an amazing soundtrack, which is the worst part.

  14. Maurice (1987) “Portrayed gay relationships to be predatory. The few sexual scenes in the movie were filled with non-consensual intimacy, glossed over as long-awaited romance.”- Amelie Vidrio (BCD ‘22)

Queer Relationships in TV

  1. POSE: Angel Evangelista and Lil Papi 

  2. Adventure Time: Princess Bubblegum and Marceline the Vampire

  3. Glee: Brittany Pierce and Santana Lopez

  4. Sex Education: Eric Effiong and Adam Groff

  5. She-Ra and the Princesses of Power: Catra and Adora

  6. Atypical: Casey Gardner and Izzie Taylor

  7. Steven Universe: Ruby and Sapphire

  8. The Owl House: Luz Noceda and Amity Blight

  9. Euphoria: Rue Bennett and Jules Vaughn

  10. Shameless: Ian Gallagher and Mickey Milkovich

  11. Buffy The Vampire Slayer: Willow Rosenberg and Tara Maclay

  12. Greek: Calvin Owens and Heath Anderson

  13. Riverdale: Cheryl Blossom and Toni Topaz

  14. The OC: Alex Kelly and Marissa Cooper

The Good, the Bad and the Floral

Jessica Hong and Shayna Kaplan

Songs for Swooning

Rajsi Rana

The return of February 14th sparks feelings of past relationships, whether romantic or not. If you’re missing someone you’re no longer with, in a happy relationship, or just in the mood to listen to music, this playlist is for you. These are some of my favorite songs which encapsulate the range of emotions that can come with the season. To listen to the full playlist, scan the QR code below!


“Love Story (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift

Genre: Pop

This song takes the story of Romeo and Juliet and imbeds it into a modern love song. With imagery of ball gowns, Romeo throwing pebbles at a window, and sneaking into gardens, the song contains notes of a Shakespearean era love. “Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone/ I'll be waiting, all there's left to do is run/ You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess/ It's a love story, baby, just say, ‘Yes.’" “Love Story” is a reflection on a young love from the past.


“Cleopatra” by The Lumineers

Genre: Alternative/Indie

Cleopatra is a song for people who feel like they’ve missed their chance with their significant other. “But I was late for this, late for that, late for the love of my life/ And when I die alone, when I die alone, when I die I'll be on time.” Amidst feeling like your relationships are “gone with the wind” you can listen to this song and wallow in that feeling.


“You Are In Love” by Taylor Swift

Genre: Pop

The feeling of falling in love is perfectly depicted in this song. The lyrics begin with the start of a relationship and by the chorus, the couple has realized that they love each other. They understand that what they feel is true love. The most striking part of the song is in the second verse. “ One night he wakes/ Strange look on his face/ Pauses, then says/ You're my best friend/ And you knew what it was/ He is in love.”


“Young Love” by Coby Grant

Genre: Pop

“Young Love” is for those experiencing a first love. Although it doesn’t clearly mention this in the lyrics, the song emits the feeling of falling in love with someone you’ve known since childhood. The chorus describes the stubbornness young people tend to have while upholding the validity of their love. “Young love, young love is nothing quite the same/ Young love, young love, it changes in a day/ Young love, young love doesn't ask too much/ Young love, young love, I think we're old enough/ To know that this is much more than just young love.”

Love, Lust and Looks: Couples Lookbook

Amelie Muro

Layout by Emma Han

Live Animals, Doping and Human Rights Violations: How the 2024 Paris Olympics Could Improve

Natalie Hanani

“The Eiffel Tower sits behind the iconic Olympic rings.” 

Photo Credit: Nicolas Briquet/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

After the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, it was announced that Paris would be hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics. With each new game comes inevitable changes, whether it be the induction of new sports or protocol adjustments. Here are the suggestions that I have for how Paris 2024 can be the greatest Olympics yet: 

1. Inclusion of Live Animals 

Although potentially a liability due to the controversial nature of using live animals for entertainment, the Olympics would surely be able to pull off including live animals in the games, seeing as they have historically persisted despite tangible concerns over human safety, like Tokyo citizens’ concerns over Covid outbreaks due to their low vaccination rates for the 2020 Summer Olympics. But no pain, no game, right? 

Perhaps including animals in events like swimming and running would create a new incentive for athletes to demonstrate their prowess. After all, the games originated in Ancient Greece, where the concept of integration between animals and humans was no cultural rarity. Imagine if we put a great white shark in the Olympic pool and threw Michael Phelps in at the same time. Would we not be seeing his prime athletic ability demonstrated then? Similarly, what if we were to release a herd of animals on the track along with famous runners like Usain Bolt? I am sure Bolt would be intrigued enough by this prospect to come out of his retirement briefly. Obviously the specifics surrounding this concept need to be worked out, like the amount of safety provided for athletes and how to actually make the animals participate in a fashionable manner, but these are not impossible feats. The committee might have to relax some of their rules surrounding false starts, though. 

2. Upping the Ante 

One of the large reasons why people like to watch sports is the passion and adrenaline rush that they experience viewing the greatest physical competitors in the world. However, the stakes for the Olympics end after the prospect of winning a medal, whereas many other sports in the world exist with much higher feats. Such is the niche sport of free soloing, or rock climbing thousands of feet in the air without ropes, where falling means a certain death. As popularized by Alex Honnold’s historic free solo up the 3,000 feet rock El Capitan in 2017, a free soloing event in the Olympics would be a sure attention grabber. Likewise, fencing could loosen up a bit, perhaps by using real swords and losing the geeky padded uniform. The objective wouldn’t be to kill anyone, obviously, but a couple stab wounds here or there wouldn’t hurt anybody, that badly at least. 

3. Featuring a Random Person 

For Olympic events like long-distance running and track and field, there is a designated person who runs with the athletes in the beginning to set a pace. This is done mostly for the athletes’ benefit, but could this concept be redone for the audience’s benefit? Consider this: a random person picked up off the streets competes alongside the athletes to demonstrate just how world-class even the slowest of racers really are compared to the average person. Perhaps it would be off camera for only the in person viewers’ pleasure, so as not to distract from the athletes on the air. Either way, it would greatly benefit the athletes and the viewers to have a relevant comparison in real time, and having some attention displaced from the athletes could also humble them. And who knows, they might even find the next big athlete!

4. Relax Doping Regulations

It’s a coveted Olympic rule that all athletes must be free of substances when competing. Within the past Olympic games, sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson was barred from competing when her drug test came out positive for marijuna, a disappointment for the athlete whose immense speed in the trials garnered international fame. Yes, the Olympics are made to test out the true human ability, so it makes sense that doping is not allowed. However, would it not be incredibly intriguing to see what could happen if people were given the opportunity to use all of their “resources” to try and win? Also, is it true to say that the games are even really fair? These athletes have access to some of the greatest trainers and facilities in the world, so there’s no point in acting like they’re truly using just their raw talent and hard work to win games. Why not add in the ability to use some enhancers? After all, is there really a difference between high performance and performing high? 

Olympic games are a work in progress that have much room for improvement. Hopefully within the next couple of years, there will be more changes done to improve the viewer experience. Maybe the spirit of Paris will light a fire within the committee’s hearts and convince them to let go of some of the hard fast rules, or at the very least stop choosing locations for games that pose life-threatening or economic concerns for the communities in which they are held. But hey, you can’t do everything right, right?

Hit the Machine, You’ll Be Seeing the Dean!

Felix Brem

In January 2022, I made a fatal mistake. A mistake I would regret for the rest of my life. 

I hit the vending machine. 

At first, I believed my small crime to be justified. My Mr. Flav was stuck, suspended in between the black rows and clouded glass, and I had a thirst for fruity carbonated liquid. You would have done the same. 

A warning cautioning students of the consequences that await them if they hit the machine.

Photo by Caitlyn Mason

The next few days, nothing happened. But I felt a watchful eye lingering on me as I climbed the stairs, ordered from the cafeteria, and avoided the ghosts in the Symphony Hall Basement as I retrieved an ancient text from the archives. I told myself I was just paranoid. 

A week later, a pink slip was delivered to my Journalism classroom. Confused, but grateful to escape the power hungry Mr. Peterson, I headed to Mr. Ciecek’s office. 

I handed the form to the receptionist, who sighed wisely before waving me in. I was beginning to understand what awaited me beyond the office’s imposing iron door, manacled and covered in a thin layer of frost. My hands began to shake.

The door locked behind me. The room inside was pitch black. 

I dared not speak, for fear I would disturb whatever dark spirits lurked. Ciecek was gone, and whatever inhuman thing I faced instead was much more archaically powerful than I could comprehend. 

A wind began to pick up, hurling office items in my direction like a child having a tantrum. I shielded myself with my arms, praying that I would be saved—but I soon realized that I felt none of the projectiles. I felt nothing. Something was happening to my body, my vision. It felt like a headache, except it occurred in every part of my body at once, intense but also painless. I felt indescribable sensations passing over my skin, smothering it, changing it. 

An eerie voice whispered through the wind to me. “The dean is ready to see you now.” 

A giant, fleshy hand protruded from the shadows, approaching with inhuman speed—I briefly wondered whether it was huge or I was small, but found myself not caring as fear forced me to scurry away. My limbs moved in an unfamiliar fashion, somehow positioned in new ways on my body, though I knew that couldn’t be possible. And still, the panic gripping me couldn’t move them fast enough. 

The hand reached me quickly, picking me up as if I was a grain of rice. My heart dropped into my throat as it pulled back and threw me across the vast, unforgiving expanse of the void. 

I landed painfully on a familiar surface. As I struggled to get up, arms and legs flailing, a haunting sound began to grow louder and louder. Through blurry vision, I saw shapes approaching, until an earsplitting shriek echoed through the air and the shapes began to draw back as if afraid. A realization hit me. I had become what I had once feared most—a cockroach. 

By now, I have escaped to a place where the seventh graders will not find me. I write this to you by etching tiny words on a bathroom stall with my antenna. I warn you not to follow in my footsteps, so as to avoid this cruel and unusual punishment. I ask you to remember me, even if I lie squished on the Annex stairs, swept away by a janitor the next day. 

Evolution Unmasked: A ‘Staff Writer’ Tells All

Caitlyn Mason

Upon joining the Evolution newspaper staff, I was under the impression that it would be like any other school newspaper. We would write articles, take photos and produce…you guessed it, newspapers. However, the Evolution I walked into was far beyond what I could’ve ever imagined. This is my tell-all. 

I knew something was up as soon as I walked in. All of the blinds were closed and the doors were locked. Our advisor, Mr. Peterson, demanded we power off all electrical devices, subtly scanning the room for anyone with a wire. He then exited out of the typical school icebreaker powerpoint, and onto a new slide. “Welcome to Retribution,” it read, “OCSA’s first and only multi-level marketing company.” 

He proceeded to give us our instructions. To keep up the multi-level marketing front, we would, indeed, write a newspaper. We had to create a newspaper so airtight, so convincing, that no one—not even administrators—would raise an eyebrow. While we had to make it clear that we were journalists, there were strict guidelines so as to not draw attention to our true occupations. Behind closed doors, the real work began. We were not selling a product, or even a service; we were selling an idea. 

In exchange for a large sum of money, Evolution promised to write an exposé on anyone. It didn’t matter who it was or why, because we had no intention of actually publishing any of these exposés. We produced whole fake copies of Evolution specifically for the vengeful participants in Project Retribution, convincing them that their exposés had made our front page. By that definition, there were over 200 “front pages.” 

I didn’t know it, but in the fall of my junior year, I had unknowingly joined a pyramid scheme. And while I’m not particularly proud of my contributions, I can’t say it wasn’t a team effort. The “Meet the Staff” page is merely a cover for our true roles in Evolution—or in reality, Retribution. 

“Editors” are Mr. Peterson’s right-hand minions, and are experts at selling the prospect of revenge exposés. Often upperclassmen, they have honed their persuasive skills over their years at OCSA. “Staff writers” serve as the distractions, tasked with writing articles that are controversial enough to create diverting conversations, but not enough to warrant deep investigation. “Photographers” are the decoys in this company. Their job is to walk around OCSA’s campus and take photos of anything, and they must make it very, very obvious. And lastly, the “production” team produces the newspaper 30 percent of the time, but the other 70 is spent aiding Mr. Peterson in more technological endeavors. It was harder than we thought to run a pyramid scheme from a Chromebook. 

Of course, there are some things that must be done as a team. In order to secure the money, we need to be on the defensive. It’s a harsh reality in the world of multi-level marketing. As a staff, every two or so months, we go out on “newspaper delivery.” On these delivery missions, we subtly threaten members of the student body who haven’t paid up. 

In my time at Retribution—I mean, Evolution—I’ve learned the value of working as a team. Yes, it may be a pyramid scheme, and yes, we are aiding and abetting a fraudulent act. But all this aside, we’re just like any other school organization, with a Slack channel, a Google Classroom and under-the-table exposé payments.

Researchers Wowed By Newly-Discovered Species Ocsa Studentus

Andy Choi

Earlier this month, scientists from several top research universities stumbled upon a remarkable new discovery: a new species of primate that radically diverges from Homo sapiens and is so different that it has been classified under an entirely new genus. Localized to a few blocks of the urbanized wilderness of Santa Ana, California and its environs, the recently-publicized findings on Ocsa studentus have shook the science world.

“The first sign that something was different about Ocsa studentus is penchant to spend long hours of the day within a strange assortment of structures they call the ‘campus’ and engaged in various behavioral quirks including play-acting and cultural production that are often codified into strict ritualized performances that stretch deep into the night called ‘rehearsals,’” said Dr. Benjamin Reichwald, the principal author of the study. “What distinguishes Ocsa studentus from Homo sapiens is the astonishingly high concentration of such behaviors among the population—it seems that virtually every Ocsa studentus endemic to this small plot of land  is heavily invested in some form of artistic expression.”

A team of international researchers was dispatched to Orange County to find more about this mysterious community after hazy footage of a particularly intense collective ceremony called a “flash mob” began circulating on the Internet. The first few attempts to reach the isolated population failed, as researchers had trouble navigating a particularly treacherous stretch of the I-5 freeway. The team struggled to understand how many members of Ocsa studentus could stage daily migrations from scattered outlying habitats on the jam-packed rivers of concrete. Once they finally arrived at the doorstep of the Ocsa studentus habitat, they made sure to proceed with caution and observe from a distance. However, this quickly failed as a rowdy crowd yelled exclamations like, “I love your fit!” and, “It’s giving!” as they hovered around the slightly-intimidated group of researchers.

‘One specimen rushed over to my side and pulled on the drab beige jacket I use for fieldwork, telling me that it was very ‘normcore’ and ‘normie-pilled’ and asking me where I had procured it,” said Dr. Zak Arogundade Gaterud, a Swedish scientist who accompanied the expedition. “They then attempted to initiate a discussion on post-ironic fashion expressions and asked me if I could participate in something called ‘fit pics.’ I politely declined, but they took photos of me anyway.”

The researchers were quickly swept into the strange new culture of the Ocsa studentus, who curiously enough seem to have mastered human language and used it with an adroitness that is particularly pronounced (in an annoying way) in the Ocsa studentus creativewritingis subspecies. Instead of saying, “Hello” the species employs a complex, convoluted method of greeting that typically begins with discussing how many hours they spent sleeping the night before. 

At the centerpiece of the Ocsa studentus society is a mysterious group of influential mystics called “Evolution” that congregate deep in the darkest pits of the subterranean cave system under the habitat. They have produced the preeminent works of Ocsa studentus civilization akin to the human Bible, the I Ching, or the Odyssey. Using only primitive stone tablets they call “chromebooks,” the members of “Evolution” (who are the most respected and powerful of Ocsa studentus specimens, occupying an “alpha” position in the species’ hierarchy) craft metanarratives loaded with subliminal messages, which they compile into a frequent publication called the “school newspaper.”

In the spirit of cross-cultural inter-species exchange, the researchers tried to impress what they believed was their superior human civilization on their fellow primates. However, it quickly backfired. As soon as the researchers brought “Evolution” out into the light of day to witness their portable electric cheese fondue set and high-tech cold brew coffee setup, the members of “Evolution” instantly shriveled up and disintegrated. It seems that they had never gone out and touched grass before, and the experience of having the sun hit their skin was too much for them.

“Without being able to read the new issue of ‘Evolution,’ the complex society that Ocsa studentus had carefully constructed quickly fell apart,” said Thanapat Bunleang, who had been excited to facilitate further inter-species exchange with Ocsa studentus. “It is really ‘Evolution’ that was keeping their society together. Without it, we observed them lose interest not only in making art, but keeping up with basic bodily functions like eating, sleeping and going to the bathroom.”

Manipulator Music, Mapped

Grant Li

There’s nothing more fun and incredibly inappropriate than judging other people’s music tastes. Imagine getting a peek into your friend’s deepest emotions, thoughts and passions, then proceeding to make fun of them for it. That’s why the Evolution team has created a surefire way to perfectly psychoanalyze the people around you based on the artists they listen to: the Manipulator Music Bingo.

The concept of “manipulator music” originated as a TikTok meme about male manipulator music, artists that manipulative or toxic men religiously listen to like a hivemind—think Coldplay, Frank Ocean, and Drake. Eventually the term expanded to any red flag music, regardless of gender. For the female side, look to people like Taylor Swift, Mitski, and Taylor Swift (Taylor’s Version). The idea is simple: if they listen to this music, run.

So why not have a go at it yourself? Find out just how toxic you really are by playing one or both of the bingos provided below. And share with your friends to continue ignoring their blatant red flags. 

Female Manipulator Bingo

Male Manipulator Bingo

An Open Letter to My Love

Selah Sanchez

Dear Simon,

I long for you unendingly. 

Your piercing blue eyes that see straight into my soul, your careful dainty way of eating, your soft hands, even if you fuss when I would like to hold them, the way you exude divinity with every step you take. I miss it all, every hour we are apart. What are you doing right now? Watching the window? Sleeping? Perhaps wondering when I will be back? 

As Valentine’s Day pulls closer, I cannot help but think about the first time we met. The first time I ever looked into those eyes and heard that sweet voice of yours, like daisies in a breezy meadow. I knew it was fate that must have brought us together…that, and lots of begging my parents. But mostly fate. 

You remember, I am certain. We were both so small back then.

Tell me, Simon, did you feel the same as I did?

Art by Lauren Kim

I want to believe so, from the way you kissed my hand and fell asleep during the drive home, in the back of my parents’ car. That day marked the beginning of the happiest days of my life. It’s been two years now, right? Time flies by. Growing up with you has been beautiful. Every moment we spend together, no matter how little, is unforgettable to me, whether it be watching you explore outside, observing the world with those unreadable wintry eyes, chasing insects, or slinking down the halls at night. I want everything to do with you. Each indifferent yawn. Each wide-eyed gaze at a distant bird. Even your fussing and fretting when you’ve had it with my doting is endearing.

Isn’t it so sweetly strange? We are so, so alike, yet so beautifully different. You have an adventurous, outdoor spirit, while I prefer to take care of things at home. But I love that so much about you. I guess I am writing this all to say…I love you. I say it a lot, but it is true. Thank you for being there when no one else was. For being my comfort when I feel the world is against me. I am not perfect but I will do my best to provide for you. Always remember that however far you go. I will always be here waiting for you, Simon. Waiting with the door wide open. Happy Valentine’s Day, my most darling dearest, beautiful, beloved cat. 

Yours always and forever,

S. Sanchez

Senioritis

Emma Han

Well, we did it! We survived first semester. College applications are but a thing of the past and it's time to finally relax and for the real fun of senior year to commence—or so I’ve been told.

Second semester of senior year is notorious for being the best time of high school—filled with late night hangouts, getaways from the city and any spontaneous activity ever done in a coming-of-age film. But, I sadly report—whilst writing this sprawled across my unmade bed—that my days are as uneventful as ever and unchanged from their usual pace. Holed away in my bedroom like a hermit crab, I spend my days reading, writing and painting. Just as I’ve only begun my day, the sun has gone to sleep, all for me to repeat my routine the following morning. 

Time feels nonexistent and yet, six years have slipped through my fingers without notice. I don’t mind not living out the clichés of high school life—I am certainly not one for spontaneity—but I still feel as if I’m missing out on nights with people I may very well never see again come June. It’s bittersweet to see we are nearing the end of this road.

If only I could grab Time by the shoulders to stop her from running just so I can get a single second to breathe, and take these last moments in.

Looking back on these years, I regret fixating on grades––being uptight and unwilling to have fun when I had the chance. School was my whole life; and as I grew to become a scholarly student, an overly neat notetaker and a pristine perfectionist, seeing how often I worked myself over for an A seems so insignificant now. 

My birthday recently passed, marking my 18th year—though, it's hard to feel like an adult when I haven’t even gotten my driver’s permit yet. This new number is like a badge on my chest, all but proclaiming to the world that “Hey! I’ve got it together! I’m an adult now who knows what I’m doing!” I mean, I am going on and on with an internal monologue on my missed opportunities as a teenager that could only possibly build up to some worldly revelation to impart on you; alas, this new number hanging over my head is simply another number. I am still the same girl, who reads, writes and paints; who is comfortable in her own shell and who is hopelessly lost like the rest of you bunch while trying to make the most of her time left in school. 

But, I can’t possibly leave you on this note. Frankly, as I’m editing this article, it is quite sad and exhausting to read through what I can only describe as an eloquently written nervous breakdown. Yes, it is hard for us seniors to see that this chapter is down to its final pages; though, that’s all it is. A chapter. It’s ending will bring about a new one. We’ll have our fresh starts, new environments and anticipated adventures ahead. 

But don’t be too quick to gloss over this ending. We may not have all the time in the world, but what’s to stop us from living out our craziest and wildest imaginings today? Those six years have come and gone in a blink, yet today, in this moment, it’s as if we have a lifetime. So don’t waste it. We must seize every moment and live it to our fullest. Because today is all we have.

There’s your worldly revelation for you, as promised. I guess turning 18 does make one all the wiser.

Chinese Zodiacs

Melody Chang

Art by Emma Han