The 2020 Summer Olympics Closing Ceremony Pt.10

To be read as a direct coninuation of Part 9; https://watchitdie.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-2020-summer-olympics-closing_20.html

The Dying Of The Light.

It is International Olympic Committee (IOC) Protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section.

A section in which the Olympic Cauldron is extinguished. Marking the formal end of the games.

The Japanese hosts decided to do this through the telling of a story. 

The story of some Kindergarten-aged children being given a lesson in Astronomy. By their Governess/Teacher.

Very much in the style of the 1965 British musical movie; "The Sound Of Music."

Although not individually credited. The children were all members of the Suginami Children's Chorus.

They were obviously intended as a reference to the; "Child-Like Ciphers." 

The Child-Like Ciphers who guided us through the Opening Ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics. Held in PyeongChang, Republic of Korea (RoK/South).

The same Child-Like Ciphers. Who were referenced by the young Japanese women who guided us around the park. In the earlier; "Life Beyond The Wire" section.

As the children gazed through their telescopes and checked their star-charts. They sang; "Hoshimeguri no Uta" (Star Tour Song).

Essentially a nursery rhyme composed by Kenji Miyazawa. Hoshimeguri no Uta is a very famous Japanese song. 

It teaches children the stars and constellations visible in the night sky over Japan. In the summer months.

Although I'm still covering it in January. The Closing Ceremony took place in August.

As the children sang. The scoreboard, high on the arena wall. Lit up in time with the music. Rather like a graphic equaliser.

So this was the code of the music. Being transmitted as particles of light.

A reference to Quantum Cryptography/Encryption. Particularly as it is used in China's Quantum Experiments at Space Scale (QUESS) satellite.

Standing far above. In stark contrast to the Child-Like Ciphers.

The Governess/Teacher was played by Shinobu Otake. An extremely accomplished and famous Japanese actress.

Shinobu Otake though is really only famous within the Japanese speaking world. So Japan, really.

However she provided the voice for the; "Homily" character. In the really good 2010 Japanese animated movie; "Arrietty."

In the version released in Britain. This character was voiced by Oscar winning actress Olivia Coleman. In the version released in the US. The character was voiced by Amy Poehler.

Shinobu Otake also provided the Japanese language dubbing for the character; "Maria" in West Side Story. When it was released in Japan in 1979. 

In West Side Story Natalie Wood played Maria. Yet the singing was done by Marni Nixon. In the Japanese release Shinobu Otake did both.

To give you some idea about the level of actress we're talking about here.

In her physical appearance. Shinobu Otake closely resembled the British actress Helen McCrory.

Making the point. Of how White or Caucasian people can, just about, get away with passing for Asian/Japanese. And vice versa.

In a way that Black people just can't.

Something which seems to be a major reason. Why Black people tend to bear the brunt of Japan's deeply engrained distrust of foreigners. 

An isolationist attitude that dates back to the Edo Period. The "Locked State" or "Sakoku" policy.

A recurring theme of these games. Something even Japanese society accepts. It needs to have a word with itself about.

Helen McCrory is probably most famous for playing the; "Aunt Polly" character. In the British TV show; "Peaky Blinders." 

Peaky Blinders tells the story of the British/Irish Shelby crime family. Around the time of the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921). 

The Aunt Polly character is a Gypsy. Providing the Shelby family with its links to the Gypsy community.

As was discussed during the "Highlights Reel I" section. 

My family, particularly one of my mothers, has a long affinity for horses. That mother is also half-Irish, with a very Irish family name.

So Irish. It's spelt differently for each one of her many siblings.

The phrase; "Irish, with an affinity for horses." Does sound a lot like a polite euphemism for; "Gypsy."

That is certainly how she was portrayed in the US TV show; "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." 

Through the; "Jenny Calendar" character. A member of the Kaladesh Gypsy clan. Sent to make sure the curse on the; "Angel" character was holding.

This is one of those stories that has been told so many times. That through the telling it has sort of become fact.

Not even I know how true it is though. 

The last generation of the family to actually live in Ireland was my mother's father. My maternal grandfather. He was a Doctor.

His father, my maternal great-grandfather, was also a Doctor. Despite being a Catholic part of his practice involved acting as a Police Surgeon for the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC).

Treating prisoners in RIC custody. Collecting evidence of their injuries.

As a result. He was assassinated during the early stages of the Irish War of Independence.

Something which was also portrayed in an episode of Buffy the Vampire Slaver. Season 2, Episode 19; "I Only Have Eyes For You."

The way I've heard the story. 

Is that one evening there was a knock on the door. Then aged about 13 my grandfather went to open it. While his father stood at the foot of the stairs.

When the door was opened. A volley of gunfire flew millimetres past my grandfather. Striking his father. Killing him instantly.

Family legend has it. 

That the killers were members of the so-called; "Twelve Apostles." Sometimes known simply as; "The Squad." The personal kill team of the very famous Michael Collins. 

The Twelve Apostles name being a reference to the disciples of Jesus Christ. As represented by the Catholic Rosary. The Christmas song; "The 12 Days of Christmas."

Having been introduced to the rest of my family. Through these ceremonies. You wouldn't bet against it. 

Immediately afterwards what was left of the family. Was scooped up by the British Crown and relocated to the mainland.

Just as many NATO nations were forced to scoop up and relocate many Afghan translators. In the days, weeks immediately following this ceremony.

I don't think we're setting the world of Psychology. Let alone the world of Epigenetics ablaze. By pointing out that all probably had something to do with my grandfather's massive Heroin addiction.

Those factors combined. Along with his massive addictions to Alcohol, Cocaine and Amphetamines helped fuel his; 'Antics.'

Which included attempting to murder his entire family. Setting their house on fire while they were locked inside. Successfully murdering one of his own sons, by drowning.

The infamous; "Lockhart Family Curse." As it's known to viewers of; "The Affair." That long-running, high-budget Israeli-Jewish love letter to me.

You certainly all know the house we're talking about. It still stands directly across the road from the bail hostel where MI5 stationed Sudesh Amman. For their operation of February 2nd 2020 (2/2/20).

The day of the 2020 Super Bowl. The Super Bowl that should have led into these Summer games.

Helen McCrory is/was married to the British actor Damien Lewis. 

Damien Lewis played the; "Nicholas Brody" character in the US TV show; "Homeland." That other long-running, high-budget Israeli-Jewish love letter to me.

Nicholas Brody is a returning Prisoner of War. Who soon finds himself embroiled in an elaborate plot. 

A plot centred around the codewords; "Marine One" and; "Marine Two." The designations given to the helicopters carrying the US President and US Vice President respectively.

The job of untangling that plot falls to CIA officer "Carrie Mathison." Played by Claire Danes.

The Carrie Mathison character is Manic Depressive. Suffering from Bipolar Disorder.

Something she discovered while at university/college. When in a manic episode she sent a tutor a 100,000 word essay claiming to have "Solved" music.

Throughout 2020, the Pandemic year. Where the discussion over the history of music was really one of the only things going on. I'm sure we all started to feel a bit like that.

Particularly with one incident.

When US President Trump contracted COVID-19. 

On the day I had already designated as the day I would start my coverage of COVID-19. Within the context of the 2020 US Presidential Election.

President Trump had already done very badly in the first Presidential Debate. Prompting those of us who wanted to see him win a second term to think;

"We really need to find a way to shut him up."

Seeming to prompt Covid to go; "Don't worry. We've got this!"

During President Trump's 10 days of enforced silence. 

The mask-nutters who wanted to see a return to the Biden regime. Would have been utterly convinced he was going to die. As Covid is such a deadly disease.

President Trump would then have been able to emerge, triumphant. After having received no treatment. Proving that Covid isn't actually a deadly disease.

The mask-nutters and the Biden regime are liars.

Unfortunately President Trump even managed to screw that up. Spending those 10 days shouting about every weird treatment he was subjecting himself to.

The journey began with an extremely tense wait. With seemingly every news camera on the planet focused, for what seemed like hours, on Marine One. 

As that helicopter sat on the White House lawn. Waiting to transport President Trump to hospital.

The tension was broken. When I seemed able to start Marine One's engines and rotor blades with my tablet.

Using the song; "Ace of Spades" by Motorhead. As a sort of override code.

As I'm sure Iran has learned, through the Stuxnet virus. Even Israel wishes it had that level of capability.

Helen McCrory died of Cancer in April 2021.

Something which, I think, came as a shock to everyone. Outside of the immediate family no-one even knew that she was battling Cancer.

As I explained. During the earlier Life Beyond The Wire section.

Around the time of the 2021 Super Bowl. I was all ready to entertain you. With some absolutely Outrageous Lockdown Gossip!

Rihanna and I would be the married couple. The supposedly bisexual Miley Cyrus would have to try and win us both over, individually.

In drawing up that plan. I knew it would involve me sharing certain details about some of my ex-girlfriends with Rihanna and Miley Cyrus. On, essentially, the Internet.

That level of openness is something I could only promise for my stories. I felt even sharing my ex-girlfriends' stories was pushing the limits of what was acceptable.

So if it were to come to Rihanna and, particularly, Miley Cyrus' stories. Then I think an extra level of privacy would be required.

Particularly her rather robust views on non-White people. Probably isn't something Miley Cyrus would want shared on the Internet or global TV.

Personally I always choose to see the best in people. The potential for what they could be. Rather than what they are.

However a lack of rapid progress on that particular issue. Would certainly be a deal-breaker for me.

If Saturday Night Live (SNL) had managed not to screw up the simplest of simple tasks. Then we would have had a range of options.

At the top there would be Elon Musk's Starlink communications satellite network. Really only one step behind China's QUESS.

We could then work all the way down the menu. To Miley Cyrus just screen-shotting things and putting them on her Instagram.

That debate over the range of options and outcomes. Could only begin. 

Once Miley Cyrus and I are permitted to speak to each other directly. You know. That thing humans do. 

Helen McCrory's discreet battle with Cancer. Showed that even in the world of Hollywood celebrity. It is possible to keep things private.

Without having to resort to the skills of actual military intelligence officers.

Although. In later seasons of Homeland there was the; "Ivan Krupin" character. Played by Israeli actor Mark Ivanir.

Mark Ivanir was actually an officer in Israeli Military Intelligence. Specifically Signals Intelligence.

Those classic wire-tappers.

At around 18:05 on 22/1/22 (UK date) I'll try and pick this up tomorrow. 

Edited at around 17:00 on 23/1/22 (UK date) to tidy the above and copy & paste;

As they sang. The students and their teacher made their way from the Protocol stage to the Pitcher's Mound stage.

Throughout an animation had been projected onto the arena floor. Showing the stars, constellations and various other space imagery.

As the group arrived at the Pitcher's Mound stage. 

The cosmic plasmas of this animation morphed into images of undersea, aquatic life. Including an image of a Dolphin.

Even the US/UK have finally been able to realise. This was a reference to the Sea. The 'Atlanta Ocean.'

For all the time and energy humans have spent exploring outer space. We've actually spent very little time exploring the Oceans and Aquatic life.

Which is perfectly understandable. 

Due to the vast size of the Universe along with the relatively slow speed at which light travels. When we look to outer space we're actually looking back in time. Possibly as far back as the birth of the Universe.

However it is often said that we know more about outer space and other planets. Than we do about what covers around 70% of our own planet.

Something which was repeatedly used as an excuse. As to why we still haven't managed to find Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.

Six years after it 'mysteriously' disappeared. During the 2014 Winter Olympics. Held in Sochi, Russia.

Just four months before US CIA officers embedded in Ukrainian Air Traffic Control. Deliberately flew Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 into an air combat zone. Knowing it would more likely than not be shot down.

As I mentioned in the Memento Mori section of the Opening Ceremony. 

In Buffy the Vampire Slayer there is a recurring story about an Irish Claddagh ring. Which the Angel character gives to the Buffy character.

That Claddagh ring is a metaphor for a tattoo I have in Japanese script. Deliberate grammatical error and all.

It seems to have something to do with the 1998 Japanese movie; "The Ring" suddenly becoming very popular in the west. Including the 2002 remake.

There is an Irish Rebel song called; "Grace." It is about one of the prisoners being held at Kilmainham (Cluain Meala) Prison. Following the 1916 Easter Rising.

As he is about to be executed this prisoner writes his beloved one final letter. Including a wedding ring declaring them now to be married. Entitling her to whatever death benefits may be forthcoming.

A sort 1916 version of marriage over Zoom. Something which became rather fashionable during Pandemic.

There is one version of Grace recorded by the band The Barleycorn. Which is included on a compilation of Irish love songs published by the Dolphin Music Group. Which features a Claddagh ring as a major part of its artwork.

Something which has proved itself useful, more than once. Particularly with there being a Dawn character in later seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Israel's Dolphin class Diesel submarines, which may or may not have nuclear missiles. Certainly have some relevance to the US/UK and Australia's apparent euthusiasm for conflict in the Asia Pacific region. 

I guess it's easy to be enthusiastic for conflict. When, unlike Japan. You're not actually in the Asia Pacific region.

Primarily though. I think Japan was referencing the Fukushima water issue.

Which, at around 17:25 on 23/1/22 (UK date) I'll have to pick up tomorrow. 

Edited at around 17:40 on 24/1/22 (UK date) to tidy the above and copy & paste;

Like a Thermal Power Plant. Like a Geothermal Power Plant.

A Nuclear Power Plant works by piping water over a heat source. A radioactive material.

That water turns to steam. Which spins a turbine connected to an electromagnet. Creating electricity.

Unlike with a Thermal or Geothermal Power Plant. In a Nuclear Power Plant that water becomes highly radioactive. 

So you have to store it until it decays and stops being radioactive. Which can take thousands of years. Depending on the radioactive material.

When the Tsunami of the 2011 Tokhu Earthquake Disaster struck. 

It overwhelmed these water storage tanks at the Fukushima-Daiichi Nuclear Plant. Dragging most of that radioactive water back into the Pacific Ocean.

The Fukushima-Daiichi Plant also stands between a mountain and the sea. 

So when it rains water runs down from the mountain, underneath the Plant and into the sea. Becoming radioactive as it does.

To prevent this Japan has built an underground wall around the Fukushima-Daiichi Plant. 

Coolant is pumped through metal pipes freezing the soil between the pipes. This so-called; "Ice Wall" is around 30m (100ft) tall/deep and stretches for 600m (1 mile) around the Plant.

Unlike with a Thermal Power Plant. In a Nuclear Power Plant you can't just switch the radioactive material off. 

So even when you're not using it to generate electricity. You still have to pump water over the reactor. To keep it cool and stop it from catching fire and exploding.

That water also becomes radioactive. Particularly when you are dealing with a damaged reactor. As Japan is with Fukushima-Daiichi.

Japan has been doing this cooling of Fukushima-Daiichi's reactors for 10 years. They've now run out of space to store all the radioactive water.

Some people have suggested that Japan simply creates more space to store the water. The area around the Fukushima-Daiichi Plant is not going to be fit for human habitation for a very long time.

Japan wants to release the water into the Pacific. Which has not gone down at all well with the other nations in the Pacific.

However Japan is not simply proposing dumping the water straight into the Pacific. As happened in the immediate aftermath of the Tsunami.

Instead, since 2013. They have been treating the water using a process called the; "Advanced Liquid Processing System."

This has removed the most dangerous radioactive material from the water. Caesium and Strontium. However it doesn't remove the Tritium.

Tritium is a product of irradiated Hydrogen. The same Hydrogen used to fuel the Olympic Cauldron.

Outside of a Nuclear Reactor. The only way that Tritium is created is in outer space. Where Nitrogen is irradiated by Cosmic Rays and Plasmas. Like those shown in the animation.

It must be said that Tritium isn't a particularly dangerous radioactive material. The chances are you've probably got some of it in your house now. Possibly even on your body.

Tritium is used to make things like watches and gunsights glow in the dark. It is much, much safer than the Radium which used to be used.

Tritium is a Beta emitter. Meaning that it is stopped by human skin and, really, dust particles in the air. Despite the outlandish claims made by Britain when it accused Russia of poisoning Alexander Litvinenko.

So Tritium is only dangerous to humans if it is ingested. Eaten essentially. Even then it is only harmful to the human cells that it actually comes into direct contact with.

It also has a very short biological half-life of 7 days in humans. Meaning that even if ingested it will only come in contact with human cells, potentially damaging them for 7 days.

Tritium is actually considered so harmless that it is used as an Oceanic Transient Tracer. 

It is deliberately released into seas and oceans. To allow scientists to track how the different currents circulate and interact.

Although there we are talking about far less Tritium. Than the 1.25 million tonnes of Tritium laced water that Japan is proposing be released into the Pacific.

The main issue is what happens when this Tritium enters the aquatic food chain.

At the bottom of the aquatic food chain you have small simple organisms. Which would absorb small amounts of Tritium.

However those small simple organisms are eaten in very large numbers. By slightly bigger aquatic animals. Like small fish.

In turn those small fish are eaten, in large numbers, by bigger fish.

So by the time a human comes to eat one of those bigger fish. It will potentially contain a very large amount of Tritium.

This was the problem identified by Rachel Carson in her book; "Silent Spring." Which is widely credited as starting the modern environmental movement.

The use of the Pesticide DDT. Promoted as part of the Green Revolution released Dioxins into the aquatic foodchain. 

Unlike Tritium Dioxins have a very long biological half-life in humans. In terms of 8 years compared to 7 days. Longer in less complicated organisms.

So Dioxins rapidly built up in the aquatic food chain. Entering the human food chain in large amounts. Causing Cancers and birth defects.

Eventually leading to DDT being banned in much of the World.

While the biological half-life of Tritium in humans is well understood. There is very little data on how it affects other forms of, particularly, aquatic life.

So although the release of this Fukushima-Daiichi water is generally accepted to be safe. There is still this quite sizeable element of the unknown. 

In the case of DDT. An element of the unknown that ended badly.

Now that I'm apparently no longer in the grenade juggling business. This Fukushima-Daiichi water issue is something I'd be interested in looking at in more detail.

Along with catching up with the latest inter alia of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Once the Child-Like Ciphers and their teacher had finished singing Hoshimeguri no Uta. They started singing; "Clair de Lune" by French composer Claude Debussy.

Possibly one of the most famous French songs ever. Clair de Lune translates as; "The Light of the Moon." 

An obvious nod to France taking over from Japan. As the hosts of the 2024 Summer Olympics and Para-Olympics.

However it was also a reference to the 1998 US TV mini-series; "From the Earth to the Moon." One of the many things I streamed during 2020, the Pandemic year.

From the Earth to the Moon tells the story of the US' Apollo Space Program. Up to and beyond the historic Apollo 11 mission which landed the first humans on the Moon.

As has been mentioned throughout these ceremonies. Article 9 of Japan's Peace Constitution (Heiwa-Kenpo) forbids Japan from possessing purely offensive weapons. Particularly ballistic missiles.

Ballistic missiles and Space Rockets differ really in only what you put on top of them. So Article 9 also forbids Japan from having any meaningful Space Program. Despite the fact it seems Japan would be rather good at it.

Japan perhaps expresses its frustration with the annual Kanamara Matsuri. The "Festival of the Steel Penis." Launched in 1969. The year of the Apollo 11 mission.

I think a lot of people forget. That is was another Michael Collins who piloted Apollo 11. While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon.

Perhaps an interesting choice. Given that 1969 also marked the start of the Northern Ireland Troubles. Seen by some as an extension of the Irish War of Independence.

Another little reminder here. To the US/UK in their efforts to hijack my relationship with Miley Cyrus. To turn her into some sort of Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon.

Just my biological family alone. Have been doing that sort of thing for a very long time. At a much more sophisticated level.

By the final episode of From the Earth to the Moon. Even the creative types making the show had got bored with the science of the Space Program.

So decided, instead, to make an episode about the making of; "Les Voyage dans la Lune" or; "A Trip To The Moon." This 1902 French short film by Georges Melies is widely consider to be the first sci-fi movie ever made.

It was episode 10 of From the Earth to the Moon; "Galileo Was Right." Which seems to have predicted what some see as an important event in my life.

It focuses on the Apollo 15 mission. Which was centred on exploring the Moon's geology. Chosen to captain the mission was Harrison "Jack" Schmitt.

Jack Schmitt trained as a Geologist before quitting for the glamour of being a Navy Fighter Pilot. He has to recruit one of his old lecturers, Lee Silver, to help prepare for the mission. 

Lee Silver is still angry at Jack Schmitt for quitting Geology. But eventually has to concede. That the student has become the master.

Three years later I was studying Geography, which has a large Geology element to it, at university. When I walked out of a lecture.

In order to stop the sensation of my brain-cells being killed. By a Geology lecturer explaining how Statistical Analysis, specifically Regression Analysis. Proves that Climate Change isn't real. 

As I left I remember him telling the other students that I; "Would never amount to anything."

The UNFCCC is really peak Geography.

From the Earth to the Moon is a passion project for Tom Hanks. A follow on from his role in the 1995 movie; "Apollo 13."

So Tom Hanks produced the show. Each episode begins with him giving a short introductory, really, lecture. Telling us what we're about to watch.

Tom Hanks was probably the first truly globally famous person to contract COVID-19.

The response to which. Seems to have been driven by an obsession with Statistical Analysis. Rather than science.

The teacher then gestured to the Olympic Cauldron Structure.

As was explained. During the Opening Ceremony this structure was intended to resemble; The Sun Rising Over Mount Fuji.

It was now though bathed in a pale blue light. So as it rotated and closed, extinguishing the Olympic Flame. 

The orb was intended to resemble; The Moon Rising Over Mount Fuji.

Marking the end of the day. The end of the games.

On the Closing Ceremony's Wikipedia page. It is suggested that the teacher's gesture was intended as an example of; "Telekinesis." It was her gesture that caused the cauldron to close.

Telekinesis being that thing used by Jedis in the Star Wars universe. To move objects with the power of their minds. Using; "The Force."

Really the purpose of any Olympic or Para-Olympic Ceremony. Is to make artistic statements that are open to interpretation. To start various discussions.

So there aren't really any wrong answers. Just as there aren't really any right answers.

Interpreting this sequence as a reference to Star Wars and telekinesis. Would certainly allow for further mockery of that particular type of basement dwelling virgin.

That particular type of basement dwelling virgin who has watched far too much Manga. Convincing themselves they have magical Jedi-like Superpowers.

However, personally. I think the teacher's gesture was just that. A way to draw everyone's attention to the Olympic Cauldron as it closed. 

At around 18:15 on 24/1/22 (UK date) I'll try and finish this tomorrow. 

Edited at around 17:40 on 25/1/22 (UK date) to tidy the above and copy & paste;

Para-Olympic Preview Video.

Both the Opening Ceremony and this Closing Ceremony. Have featured many coded adverts for the Para-Olympics.

So the earlier "Life Beyond The Wire" section was a tribute to the Closing Ceremony of the 2016 Summer Para-Olympics. Held in Rio de Janerio, Brazil.

The "Fun With Flags III" section referenced Shakespeare's The Tempest. The central inspiration to the 2012 Summer Para-Olympics Opening Ceremony. Held in London, UK.

Anywhere Rihanna and I were mentioned. Was a reference to the 2012 Summer Para-Olympics Closing Ceremony. Our elaborate wedding ceremony.

There were also various Para-Olympians used in various roles such as Flag-Bearers. Along with a number of performers with obvious physical impairments. Such as wheelchair users.

This video was one big, clear advert for the Para-Olympics. Here in the Closing Ceremony of the Olympics.

Japan expressing its desire for parity between the Olympics and Para-Olympics. Viewing them not as two separate events. But as one singular, continuous event.

The video was made up of highlights of previous Summer Para-Olympic games. With the bulk of the footage coming from the 2012 and 2016 Summer games. 

The only two Summer Para-Olympics where there is a lot of high quality footage to choose from. Something which shows the Para-Olympics' journey towards parity with the Olympics.

The video gave particular prominence to British sprinter Jonnie Peacock. It ended with a shot of him triumphantly crossing the finishing line as winner.

Aside from he who shall not be named. Jonnie Peacock is probably the most famous Para-Olympic sprinter.

He is a single, below-the-knee amputee competing in the T44 class. Winning Gold in the 100m at both the 2012 and 2016 games. He also picked up a Silver and Bronze at these games.

Outside of the world of sport Jonnie Peacock has also boosted his profile by crossing into the world of mainstream TV. 

He appeared in the 2017 season of the British version of; "Dancing With The Stars" (Strictly Come Dancing). 

As part of efforts to promote the 2020 Summer Para-Olympics Jonnie Peacock appeared as a guest character in the soap opera; "Hollyoaks." In August 2021.

Also in August 2021 he hosted his own show; "Jonnie's Blade Camp." Mentoring aspiring Disability sport runners.

Jonnie Peacock has also appeared as a guest on various chatshows. Along with on celebrity versions of shows like; "The Great British Bake-Off" and; "Masterchef."

The US Olympic and Para-Olympic broadcaster is the NBC network. They recently launched their online streaming service; "Peacock."

So this seemed a bit of a challenge to NBC. Over how much Para-Olympic coverage they were going to broadcast.

Also NBC's Peacock is where you can stream that infamous episode of; "Saturday Night Live (SNL)." Along with Miley Cyrus' Hitroigami Karaoke special; "Stand By You."

Making for a right pair of Peacocks.

Who've been humiliated through their association with Team GB.

Firework Finish.

As seems to have become tradition. The ceremony ended with a massive firework display. 1,072 of them to be precise.

As the fireworks were going off. The scoreboard displayed the message; "Arigato" is Roman/English script. The Japanese word meaning; "Thank You."

This was a reference to the 1964 Summer Olympics. Also hosted by Tokyo. 

The one I'd been hinting at in the run-up to the games. By teaching my paywall readers about Reiner Klimke's Cavaletti method of horse training.

During the Closing Ceremony of the 1964 games. The scoreboard displayed the message; "Sayonara" in Roman/English script. The Japanese word meaning; "Goodbye."

Using the cutting edge technology available at the time. The 1964 scoreboard was only able to display this message in analogue form. Using stop-motion toy cubes.

This was something that was alluded to in the "Ichimatsu Moyo/Harmonised Chequered" section of the Opening Ceremony.

In which the Kindergarten aged children. The Child-Like Ciphers. Moved their toy blocks to hint at the fan-shape inspired Tokyo 2020 emblem.

Itself a reference to the much more sophisticated Building Blocks of Life. Featured in the Opening Animation of the Opening Ceremony.

So once again. We had the scoreboard high up on the arena roof. Displaying a message being transmitted as particles of light.

A reference to Quantum Cryptography/Encryption. Particularly as it is used in China's QUESS satellite.

Then way, way below that. At the sub-Kindergarten level.

We had the Child-Like Ciphers of the US/UK's attempts to hijack my relationship with Miley Cyrus.

Insisting that we couldn't possibly speak to each other directly. Using electronic communications such as email or Social Media Direct Messages.

As those would be a secret.

In one final flourish. After the ceremony ended. As the stadium lights came up and people started to leave.

A long, instrumental version of Elton John's "Chosen Family" was played throughout the stadium.

Sending the message;

You know it's time to go. Get as far away as you can.

When Elton John starts up.

 

18:20 on 25/1/22 (UK date).

The 2020 Summer Olympics Closing Ceremony Pt.9

To be read as a direct continuation of Part 8; https://watchitdie.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-2020-summer-olympics-closing_18.html

Fun With Flags III.

It is International Olympic Committee (IOC) Protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section.

In which the Olympic Flag is raised. While the Olympic Anthem/Hymn is played.

A smaller version of the Olympic Flag is then handed. From a representative of the current Olympic host. To a representative of the next Olympic host.

The National Flag of the next Olympic host is then raised. While the National Anthem of the next Olympic host is played.

This is to signify the transfer of the Olympics. From one host to the next.

All of which took place on the Protocol stage.

On this occasion the Olympic Flag was raised by a gender-balanced flag detail from all branches of the Japanese Self-Defence Forces (JSDF). 

With three male members of the JSDF on one side of the flag detail. An equal number of female members of the JSDF on the other.

The Olympic Anthem/Hymn was performed by a Soprano. Standing alone on the Pitcher's Mound stage.

Soprano is typically a female vocal range. It was hard though to identify the gender of this rather androgynous Soprano.

Having looked it up though. This Soprano was a man. Tomotaka Okomoto.

Tomotaka Okomoto's appearance. In traditional Turquoise/Purple Japanese robes. 

Was intended to resemble the Kotomatukami (Gods of High Heaven) and the first three generations of the Kaminyo-nanayo (Seven Generations of the Age of the Gods).

Although I don't think it was intended as a reference to any particular Kotomatukami or Kaminyo-nanayo. You could certainly think of Kuni-no-Tokotachi. 

The Kaminyo-nanayo who is manifested in Mount Fuji. The inspiration for the Olympic Cauldron structure.

As we learned. During the; "Intermission!" section of the Opening Ceremony. 

The Kotomatukami and first three generations of Kaminyo-nanayo are considered; "Hitroigami." The; "Singular." "Those Who Exist Alone."

Hitroigami are considered to be simultaneously male, female and genderless.

As the Hitroigami were used in the Opening Ceremony. They were used here.

To troll the slower nations; The US, Canada and New Zealand. Who still think Transgender athletes are an ongoing discussion within the Olympic/Para-Olympic movement.

Reminding them just how slow they are. Still struggling with a concept that has been a major part of Japan's culture and spiritual beliefs for many thousands of years.

The lyrics of the Olympic Hymn, written by Kostis Palamas. Are about invoking an ancient spirit, immortal. To sparkle its glory over Earth and Heaven.

Within the Japanese Shinto belief. That could be interpreted as a reference to Susanoo. One of the; "Three Precious Children" of Izanagi and Izanami. The seventh generation of Kaminyo-nanayo.

Particularly with Tomotaka Okomoto also, somewhat, resembling Susan Boyle.

Susanoo is the Kami that brings forth wildness and violence. Storms and Floods.

This image of a figure, standing alone on an island. Surrounded by storms and floods. Was intended to invoke; "The Tempest" by William Shakespeare.

Particularly the 2010 movie adaptation of The Tempest. Which featured the female Helen Mirren in the lead, male role of Prospero. Another example of this gender-fluidity fad.

Serving as yet another reminder to the slower nations. Of just how slow they are. Still being obsessed with that fad, 11 years later.

Shakespeare's The Tempest was a central inspiration for the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Summer Para-Olympics. Held in London, the capital of Shakespeare's native Britain.

The tale of Prospero's rational magic being victorious over Sycorax's irrational magic. Serving as a metaphor for the victory of science and knowledge over ignorance.

The ignorance that continues to shape many people's attitudes towards disability and disabled people.

So this was another huge Japanese advert for the Para-Olympics. Here in the Closing Ceremony for the Olympics.

Particularly the Turquoise/Purple themed "#WeThe15" disability rights campaign. Set to be launched at the Para-Olympics.

The outgoing Olympic hosts were represented as they were in the Opening Ceremony. By Yuriko Koike. The current Governor of Tokyo.

In the Opening Ceremony Yuriko Koike wore a typical western business suit. Here she chose to wear traditional Japanese formal wear. A Kimono.

I can't really tell you why the first female Governor of Tokyo. The first female Governor of any Japanese Prefecture. Chose to wear a Kimono. 

However. Amid that big recurring theme of these games. Improving rights for women, particularly within Japanese society.

We can certainly use this as an opportunity. 

To discuss why women are so closely scrutinised on what they choose to wear. As if their physical appearance is their only contribution, their only value to society.

When we don't even notice yet another man. Wearing yet another anonymous, bland western business suit.

The incoming hosts. The French capital Paris. Were represented by Ana Maria Hidalgo Aleu, Anne Hidalgo. The Mayor of Paris.

The first female Mayor of Paris. Whose term has so far include the January 2015 Charlie Hebdo Attacks, the November 2015 Paris Massacres and the December 2015 signing of the Paris Agreement.

We all hope the 2024 Summer Olympics won't be quite so tragic.

In December 2020 Anne Hidalgo's administration was fined after violating gender-balance laws. By appointing 11 women to the top 16 leadership positions. In violation of the 60% threshold.

France's Bit.

It is IOC Protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section.

A section produced by the incoming Olympic hosts. To give us a taste of what to expect as we prepare for their hosting of the Olympics.

However I now find myself less than two weeks away. From the Opening Ceremony of the 2022 Winter Olympics. To be held in Beijing, China.

So it is probably better that I finish covering Japan's sizeable contribution. Then come back to this.

Japan, of course. Had to wait two years for my coverage of their section of the 2016 Closing Ceremony.

Closing Speeches.

It is IOC Protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section.

A section in which a closing speech is given by a representative of the IOC. Along with a closing speech given by a representative of the outgoing Olympic host.

This is a section which doesn't normally require much of an analysis by me. The meaning of the speeches are the meaning of the words used in the speeches.

During the speeches the dignitaries were accompanied on stage. By medal winners from these games. Representing the only five continents the IOC claim exist. Along with refugees.

The IOC seem to view refugees, the creation and sale of such. To be a core value.

The IOC's speech was given by its President, Thomas Bach. It was spectacularly tone-deaf.

Thomas Bach declared the 2020 Olympics to be the; "Olympic Games of Hope, Solidarity and Peace."

These games were supposed to serve as something of An Intervention For Britain.

An opportunity for Britain to face up to the fact. That in 2006 in just, completely withdrew from reality.  Shortly after the IOC had awarded it the privilege of hosting the 2012 Summer games.

Then provide Britain with something of a; "Safe-Space." In which it could explore what drove it to just, completely withdraw from reality. Allowing it to resolve those issues and start participating in reality.

Rather than displaying solidarity in that common cause. The IOC decided to completely isolate itself. Cheering Britain on in celebration of how wonderfully it is doing.

The equivalent of buying an alcoholic yet one more beer.

As a result the IOC failed in its most basic task. Holding an Olympic games.

As everything had to be put on hold. Drowned out by the sounds of screaming babies.

Even those screaming babies have surely now got to be regretting. The false hope the IOC gave them.

Japan's speech was given by Seiko Hashimoto. The President of the local organising committee. 

Seiko Hashimoto's speech spoke of how postponement of the games, due to the Pandemic. Had presented Japan with a lot of challenges. 

The implication, the "ma" (3-3-8), seeming to be. That the IOC still, somehow, managed to prevent the games from going ahead.

She then spoke of the story of Japan's journey towards these games. How it was awarded to them in 2013. As a way to chart Japan's recovery from the 2011 Tokhu Earthquake Disaster.

When Japan's response to the 2011 Tokhu Earthquake Disaster. Is compared to how other nations have coped in response to the Pandemic. Those other nations are not exactly covered in glory.

In reference to Japan being awarded these games in 2013. Seiko Hashimoto spoke of the questions which arose. Of what value sport, athletes and the IOC can be to society?

Questions that only seem to have become more pressing. Due to the IOC's failure to hold an Olympic games.

Seiko Hashimoto seemingly went on to remind the IOC. 

That citizens of the World, gathered from across the globe had arrived in the hope of an Olympics. One that embodies "Unity in Diversity," respect for each other.

Not just a megaphone for a screaming baby.

The speech also made lots of references to hands. 

The hope being passed between hands to overcome the challenge of the Pandemic. The helping hands being offered to Japan in the wake of the 2011 Tokhu Earthquake.

My particular hands. With the thermal burn scars. In the shape of what is said to be Jesus Christ's Stigmata.

Those are some very famous hands.

 

To be continued in Part 10.

17:40 on 20/1/22 (UK date).

The 2020 Summer Olympics Closing Ceremony Pt.8

To be read as a direct continuation of Part 7; https://watchitdie.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-2020-summer-olympic-closing.html

A Dance Around Japan.

Japan is not a single landmass. Instead it is an archipelago made up of 6,852 individual islands. 

Including the five main ones; Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu and Okinawa.

As a result. For much of its history Japan has actually been a difficult country to get around.

Until the invention of the internal combustion engine in the 19th Century. You had to walk, ride a horse or a horse-drawn carriage across land. Then use a row or sail boat to move between islands.

As a result many Japanese communities existed almost entirely isolated and independent from each other.

It is also a myth that the Japanese are a single ethnic group. 

A myth perpetuated at the end of the Second World War. By the Japanese government/US Military Occupation to foster a sense of national unity.

There are actually four ethnic groups that make up; "Japanese." The Yamato, Ryukyuan, Ainu and Obeiki Islanders.

This section of the Closing Ceremony gave us a quick tour around some of the Japanese people and islands. 

Using something that is common to them all. The Bon festival which inspired the previous Memento Mori section.

First a video was played.

A video which first introduced us to the Ainu. Who centre around the most northern main island Hokkaido. Which didn't actually become part of Japan until 1869.

Up until really the Edo Period the Ainu were equal to, if not superior to Japan. 

Their territory not only included Hokkaido but also parts of north-west Honshu. 

Along with the Kuril Islands/Northern Territories. Even stretching as far as Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. Essentially Alaska.

During the Edo Period the Ainu started trading with the Japanese on the island of Honshu they shared. 

This went badly for the Ainu. With increased contact with outsiders spreading diseases like Smallpox. Which significantly reduced the Ainu population.

It also saw creeping, de facto Japanese control over Ainu territory. With the Japanese being able to set more and more of the rules of trade.

By 1799 the Ainu had been all but forced out of Honshu island. Prompting the Japanese to take formal control over the southern part of Hokkaido island.

In 1869 Japan formally annexed Hokkaido island as part of its territory. Establishing the Hokkaido Colonisation Office.

In 1875 the Treaty of St Petersburg saw the Ainu inhabited Kuril Islands/Northern Territories pass from Russian control to Japanese control.

This Japanese colonisation saw the Ainu suffer much the same treatment seen by Indigenous Peoples in western Colonies. 

Such as the Maori in New Zealand. The Aboriginals in Australia and the Native Americans across the Americas.

Essentially forced assimilation. Efforts to save the man by killing the savage. Through much cruelty and suppressing Ainu language and culture.

The Ainu celebration of the Bon Festival shown here. Very clearly emphasised their status as an island dwelling people. 

It began with a man in a boat. Then showed women dancing and chanting. First in the forest, then on the beach. Directed by the village Chief, his power and status indicated by his sword.

It has been a recurring theme of these ceremonies and games; 

The US Democrat Party is the Party of Slavery.

Their entire existence is dependent of subjugating the population. Keeping everyone powerless to keep themselves powerful.

In 2020 and 2021 this saw US Democrats unleash a systematic campaign of violence against the Asian American community. Most notably the March 2021 Atlanta Spa Shootings.

A very literal attempt to beat the Asian American community into submission and subjugation.

The subjugation of the Stop Asian And Pacific Islander (AAPI) Hate astroturf/Democrat recruiting campaign.

Something which really shows the Democrats utter contempt for both Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans. Lumping these two vast diverse and different groups together as one.

This was referenced during the earlier Life Beyond The Wire section. With Poi being one of the leisure activities being performed in the park.

Poi being Maori in origin. Not Asian, let alone Japanese.

However in their chanting and general appearance. The Ainu did seem rather Maori. 

It actually seemed inspired by the video for the song; "Solar Power" by New Zealand Popstar Lorde. Which itself is inspired by Maori traditions.

Both the Maori and Ainu share the practice of ritualistic tattooing. Particularly of women's arms and faces.

So you could have taken this similarity as proof. That Asians and Pacific Islanders can all be lumped together in one big group. Coloured in crayon.

However you would have soon come unstuck. 

As the section revealed itself to be an example of how you can't lump the Japanese together. As one singular ethnic group. 

Let alone lump all Asians together.  As one singular ethnic group.

Let alone lump all Asians and Pacific Islanders together. As one singular ethnic group.

The Popstar Rihanna actually has authentic Maori tattoos covering her right hand. A souvenir from her trip to New Zealand as part of her 2013 Diamonds World Tour.

This has made Rihanna weirdly popular amongst Middle-Eastern Kurds. Who engage in exactly the same sort of ritualistic tattooing as the Maori and Ainu.

Another example of something spontaneously springing up in different parts of the World. With no connection whatsoever between them.

Rather like the colour purple being associated with wealth and power.

Some people may have found these Ainu similar to Native American practices.

In other recent efforts to subjugate the population. US Democrats have focused on the treatment of Native Americans by European Colonialists. Trying to make them yet another mule for Black Lives Matter.

The thing is. If you go back far enough. Then not even Native Americans are that native to the Americas.

They themselves are Colonialists. From Russia and traditionally Ainu territories.

Next the video introduced us to the Ryukyuan. They are centred around the main island of Okinawa. 

However, as their name suggests. The Ryukyuan are really centred around the Ryukyuan Island chain. Which stretches south-west from Okinawa down to Taiwan.

As with the island of Hokkaido. Okinawa only became part of Japan in the late 19th Century.

During Korea's "Three Kingdoms" Period, 1st Century B.C to 6th Century A.D. Okinawa and the Ryukyuan Islands were part of Korea.  

When the Korean Peninsula became part of Qing China in 1636. Okinawa and the Ryukyuan Islands also became part of Qing China.

However even as part of Qing China. The Ryukyuan Islands, including Okinawa, remained as an independent Kingdom. 

What's known as a; "Vassal State." Independent of China but ultimately subservient to China.

During the Edo Period Japan was ruled by the; "Locked State" or; "Sakoku" policy. Which forbid it from trading with the outside World.

However the Ryukyuan Kingdom was considered Japanese enough. That Japan was still able to trade with it. 

While the Ryukyuan Kingdom were free to trade with whomever they liked. Particularly China.

During the Meji Period, which followed the Edo Period. These trade links saw the Ryukyuan Kingdom gradually switch from being a Chinese Vassal State into being a Japanese Vassal State.

Amid all the current western hysteria over China's threat to Taiwan. 

I suspect that a lot of people don't know that via the Ryukyuan Kingdom Japan actually invaded Taiwan. In 1874. The first deployment of the Imperial Japanese Navy.

Through a British brokered resolution to the conflict. China gave up its claim to the Ryukyuan Kingdom. 

Allowing Okinawa and the Ryukyuan Islands to be absorbed into Japan in 1879.

This colonisation saw the Ryukyuan suffer much the same fate as the Ainu. Forced assimilation and the suppression of their language and culture.

The suffering of the Ryukyuan people continued though. At the hands of the Americans.

As was discussed in the Life Beyond The Wire Section. 

The US Militarily Occupied Japan from the end of the Second World War. Really through the 1952 Security Treaty up to the 1960 ANPO Treaty.

The US Militarily Occupied Okinawa and the Ryukyuan Islands up until 1972.

As military occupiers the US did pretty much whatever they liked to the Ryukyuan people. Stealing their homes, land and livelihoods. Raping their women and beating their children.

Of the US forces still stationed in Japan. Around 75% of them are stationed in Okinawa. 

The US' long history of abuse of the Ryukyuan people continues to make that an extremely tense and controversial arrangement.

Perhaps as a way to reassimilate them as part of Japan. Following the end of the US occupation in 1972. 

Unlike the Ainu the Ryukyuan are not formally recognised as a specific ethnic group. Something which many Ryukyuan consider to be another form of discrimination.

I find it hard to believe. That a Japanese director would include them in this section of the Closing Ceremony. Without realising the discussions it would trigger within Japanese society.

Central to the Ryukyuan/Okinawan interpretation of the Bon Festival. Is the; "Eisa" dance.

This is performed by the young men and women of the community. In honour of specific dead ancestors of theirs.

The earlier Life Beyond The Wire section looked at the US Popstar Selena. Who performed the Tejano genre of music.

Tejano music is a mixture of Hispanic vocal styles. Mixed with the rhythmic patterns of US Country & Western Swing music.

I told you to remember. That US Country & Western Swing music is influenced by the Waltzes and Polkas of 19th Century Cotillion dances. "Cotillion" being a French word meaning; "Country/Rural."

Although I can't afford Netflix. I'm sure this type of Cotillion dance was portrayed in the recent; "Bridgerton." It's certainly seems to be portrayed in every other costume drama set during this period. 

Eisa seems to be exactly the same as Cotillion.

It is performed by lines of men and lines of women. Who face each other, forming couples.

In short. It is a form of match-making.

Parents of painfully single daughters. Talk to parents of painfully single sons. They then shove them together on the dance floor. In the hope they'll get along.

Just as how Rihanna and I found ourselves being shoved together. At the Closing Ceremony of the 2012 Summer Para-Olympics. 

Making Rihanna my eternal wife. In the eyes of the Olympic/Para-Olympic movement.

Just as Miley Cyrus and I found ourselves being shoved together. At the 2021 Super Bowl.

Only for the US/UK to clumsily try and hijack the relationship. To try and turn Miley Cyrus into some sort of Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon.

Ruining it for everyone.

Forcing the Japanese hosts to bend over ridiculously far backwards here. 

Just to give the US/UK the opportunity to read what I have to write. About France, Italy and Ukraine's 2021 Eurovision Song Contest entries.

When Miley Cyrus and I could have just been talking to each other directly.

At around 19:45 on 18/1/22 (UK date) this is a terrible place to leave it. But I must. 

Edited at around 17:30 on 19/1/22 (UK date) to tidy the above and copy & paste;

Did we mention;

Japan Wants Grandbabies!

No pressure.

There is, of course, the issue. Of when Match-Making becomes Arranged Marriage. Becomes Forced Marriage.

A complex issue of consent, peer and societal pressures.

Although arranged. Even in an artistic sense I wouldn't described my relationship with Miley Cyrus to be; "Forced." As I've clearly been able to walk away when it simply became poisonous.

I might though go as far as to describe my 'marriage' to Rihanna as; "Forced." 

The former Biden regime's ultimate objective of the 2013 Diamonds World Tour was to disrupt and, ideally, block global efforts to combat Climate Change. By building up so much acrimony and bad feeling that if blew apart the COP19 Summit.

This created a lot of societal and peer pressure on me. To keep going with the marriage to Rihanna. Long after both Rihanna and I had become sick of each other.

Certainly the Ainu practiced both Arranged and Forced Marriage. 

Particularly the Forced Marriage of Ainu and Ryukyuan woman. To men from other Japanese ethnic groups. Was a very large part of the forced assimilation inflicted on them. 

To the point that many Japanese people still don't know that they actually have Ainu and Ryukyuan heritage.

This is why Article 24 of Japan's post-Meji Peace Constitution (Heiwa-Kenpo). States that marriage is based on; "Equal consent between the sexes."

As was discussed during the Fun With Flags I section of the Opening Ceremony. 

That celebration of my gay rights activism. Overcoming the barriers Britain has put in everyone's way, including their own.

The March 2021 ruling at Sapporo District Court made clear. Article 24 is there to forbid Forced Marriage. Not marriage between people of the same sex.

As the Eisa dance is performed. The dancers, along with onlookers, rhythmically chant Nembutsu songs. Essentially the repetition of the name of the Buddha.

They are accompanied by drums. As was discussed in the previous Memento Mori section. Buddhism inspired Shinto considers drumming to be a form of prayer.

I also noticed that performers tend to wear White-Face make-up.

The Bon festival celebrates the short holiday the dead a given from their dimension, Naraka. Allowing them to return to the dimension of the living, albeit still in spirit form.

So there is an element of disguising yourselves to resemble the spirits. More to make them welcome. Rather than to represent them.

Particularly in the US. Particularly in recent years the use of Black-Face make-up has become increasingly controversial.

Due to its use in racist; "Black & White Minstrel Shows." Such as ones using the song; "Camptown Races." Used to draw particular attention to the Equestrian pictograms in the Opening Ceremony.

The origins of Black-Face actually lay in the European Animist festival of Halloween.

Halloween marks the start of winter. The end of the growing season. Represented the Wu Xing as the transition from Metal to Water.

So it celebrates the emergence of darkness over light. Represented by White skin being covered by dark coloured make-up.

It actually dates back to a time when the people doing it. Didn't know that human skin came in any colour except for White.

So it's interesting that the practice seems to have spontaneously in both Europe and Asia. With no connection whatsoever between the two.

Except for the Earth and seasons they both shared.

Next the video introduced us to the Yamoto. The largest of Japan's indigenous ethnic groups.

As the largest of Japan's ethnic groups the Yamoto are spread across all of Japan's islands. Particularly following the forced assimilation of the Ainu islands to the north and the Ryukyuan islands to the south.

However the Yamoto celebration of the Bon festival we were introduced to here. Comes from the very north-west of Honshu island. Around the modern Akita Prefecture. 

Traditionally known as Nishimonai. This is an area that used to be shared between the Yamoto and the Ainu.

The Bon festival is actually celebrated at different times in different parts of Japan. Based on whether they follow the Lunar, Solar or Gregorian calendar.

However it always occurs in July into August. The height of the growing season. Fire as represented by the Wu Xing.

It is said that in the 13th Century monk named Genshin encouraged the people of Nishimonai to hold a festival. To give thanks to the Kami (Gods, Holy Spirits, Holy Forces) in order to be rewarded with a good harvest.

It is from that festival that the Bon festival came into being.

During the Warring States (Sengoku) Period the lord of Nishimonai. Lord Shigemichi Onodera was defeated. Forcing him to burn down his castle and flee. In 1601.

It is said that to show their support for their defeated Lord. The people of Nishimonai performed their Bon festival dance in the flaming ruins of the castle.

As a result fire is a major element of the Nishimonai Bon festival. Which is traditionally takes place at night. During the Fire element of the Wu Xing.

The music at the Nishimonai Bon festival is provided by a singer and live band. Performing on a central stage known as a; "Yagura."

That band is made up of three types of drum. A large or bass drum; "O-daiko." A small or snare drum; "Ko-daiko." A hand drum; "Tszumi."

Along with a hand gong; "Surigane" and wooden flute; "Yokobue." It also features a three-string banjo; "Shamisen."

Essentially the same basic instruments used in US Country & Western Swing music. The bands that perform at all those Cowboy Waltzes and Cotillions.

Unlike the ritualistic chanting and dancing at the Hokkaido and Okinawa Bon festivals. At the Nishimonai Bon festival the dancing is just dancing. While the songs are just songs.

They're typically upbeat songs. Often funny, mocking society and public figures such as politicians. 

They also tend to be quite sexual. Encouraging all those dancing couples to go off and have sex.

As a result. The Nishimonai Bon festival was actually banned between 1912 and 1926. For being far too lewd.

Particularly female dancers in Nishimonai often cover their faces. Either with a type of straw hat called an; "Amigasa." Or a full black hood called a; "Hikosa Zukin."

Why they do this is not really known. That is the official position of both the Nishimonai and Japanese ministries of cultural affairs;

"No-one really knows."

However as with the White Face make-up of Okinawa. There is an element of disguising yourself to resemble the returning spirits. Making them feel welcome.

Some also say that it works almost like a drug. Inducing hallucinations and feelings of elation.

Of course, rather like European Masked-Balls. There's another reason why a little bit of anonymity might be useful. In such a sexually charged atmosphere.

The final part of the video also looked at the Yamoto. However Yamoto located in the centre of Honshu.

Specifically the city of Gujo in Gifu Prefecture. Which of all the famous Bon festivals in the one closest to the Olympics host city, Tokyo.

As with the Nishimonai Bon festival. The Gujo Bon festival or; "Gujo Odori" centres on live singer and simple six instrument band. Performing on a central Yagura stage.

However, unlike in Nishimoani. This Yagura moves around the city, almost like a carnival float. 

Although the Yagura is located in one place for one day of the festival. Then moves to another location on the next day. Rather than constantly being on the move.

Unlike in Hokkaido and Okinawa the songs and dances at the Gujo Bon festival are not ritualistic. However unlike in Nishimonai they are set.

Rather like the; "Set-Dances" you get at US Cowboy Cotillions. Line-Dancing for example.

There are 10 Gujo Odori set-dances; 

Kawasaki. Haru Koma. San Byaku. Yachiku. Gen gen, Bala bala. Neko No Ko. Sawagi. Jinku. Old Kawasaki. Matusaka.

Each song and dance tells specific stories important to local, rural life. 

For example Neko no ko translates as; "Kitten." The dance moves emulate the movement of a cat. Helping the farmer keep mice away from the Silkworms.

While San Byaku tells the story visiting Lord Aoyama giving away money to farmers. The song gives thanks while the dance shows the farmers loading their bales of rice.

Sawagi is a song traditionally sung by Geishas. Both the song and the accompanying dance are very sexual.

Particularly in light of the debacle that was the Equestrian events. I was particularly taken by Haru Koma or; "Spring Horse."

Gujo was a major source of horse trading. So the song and its dance moves are about a rider trying to "Back" a young horse.

As the video ended. The action of the Gujo Odori was brought into the arena. Live.

The singer and band performed on the Pitcher's Mound stage. Turning it into the Yagura.

Regardless of where, when or who is performing them. Bon festivals celebrate the return of the spirits of the dead. From the dimension of the dead to the dimension of the living.

As a result the colour purple is common to them all. Particularly in the Gujo Odori. 

Sitting as it does on the edge of the Visible Light part of the Electromagnetic Spectrum. Just between the dimension humans can perceive of and one they cannot.

So this live version of the Gujo Odori made much use of a purple colour scheme. 

As does the Gujo Odori. As does the 2020 Tokyo Emblem.

As the band performed dancers performed one of the Gujo Odori dances. These dancers included a number of wheelchair dancers.

Yet another Japanese advert for the Para-Olympics. Here in the Olympic Closing Ceremony.

The song and dance performed was Kawasaki. 

The dance of which is meant to resemble the motions of farmers digging their fields by hand. The song is supposed to be the work-song they sang to set the pace.

The idea of the performance was to get the athletes to join in with the dance. If it hadn't been for Pandemic one of these Bon festivals could have been something they would have attended in person.

Obviously the Japanese athletes all knew what they were doing and enthusiastically joined in. As did many of the Chinese athletes.

Some of the US and Canadian athletes clearly had absolutely no idea what they were doing. But decided to give it a go anyway.

As is very much the attitude behind these Bon festivals.

 

To be continued in Part 9.

18:15 on 19/1/22 (UK date).

 

The 2020 Summer Olympics Closing Ceremony Pt.7

To be read as a direct continuation of Part 6; https://watchitdie.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-2020-summer-olympics-closing_11.html

The Life Beyond The Wire section looked at that recurring theme of these games. The seemingly ever increasing pace of modern life. Particularly technology's role in increasing the pace of life.

It did this by exploring music. 

The microprocessor's role in the development of Electronic Dance Music (EDM). Music that is typically played by electronic instruments, much faster than any human ever could.

This was really the main theme of the Closing Ceremony of the 2016 Summer Para-Olympics. Held in Rio de Janerio, Brazil.

There the hosts really just threw a party for the athletes. A party that gave them a tour of Brazil. Using famous musicians from different Brazilian regions and States.

The 2016 Summer games officially picked up the baton from the 2012 Summer games. The Closing Ceremony of the 2012 Summer Para-Olympics featured the global Popstar Rihanna. Along with Jay Z.

Although famous. None of the musicians featured in the 2016 Para-Olympic Closing Ceremony were that globally famous.

The reason for this is that Brazil is unique in South America in speaking Portuguese. Rather than Spanish.

Meaning that a Brazilian Popstar really only has the option of being famous within Brazil. Along with, possibly, Portugal and some African nations like Mozambique.

The US has The Grammys music awards for English speaking artists. It also has The Latin Grammys for Spanish speaking artists from the US and Latin America.

Brazilian artists don't even get a look in at the Latin Grammys.

The point the Brazilian hosts were trying to make. Is that the World has now become so interconnected, so globalised. Particularly through the Internet.

That language is really the only barrier between nations and peoples left.

Increasing developments in things like Artificial Intelligence (AI) translation software. Are even fast chipping away at that barrier.

Although, having spent a year struggling with an English speaking Miley Cyrus. Living on the west coast of the US. While I live, pretty much, on the Greenwich Meridian.

I would say that time-zones also represent something of a significant barrier.

Given the increase in global travel. For both business and diplomacy. I think quite a few people would be interested. In seeing how Miley Cyrus and I would overcome that barrier.

If only Miley Cyrus and I were permitted to speak to each other, directly.

Occurring in the middle of a long Olympic/Para-Olympic stay in Asia. These 2020 games have been rather forced to focus on Asian issues. Such as the Wu Xing. Particularly during the Pandemic.

As a result they've not been able to give much attention to the 2016 games. The games they were officially picking up the baton from.

So this Life Beyond The Wire section was actually a massive tribute to the 2016 games. Particularly the Para-Olympic games.

A reminder to Brazil. The nation with the largest ethnically Japanese population outside of Japan.

That Japan had most certainly not forgotten about them.

While also serving as another advert for the Para-Olympics. Here in the Olympic Closing Ceremony.

Fun With Flags II.

It is International Olympic Committee (IOC) protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section. 

In which the National Flag of Greece is raised and the Greek National Anthem is played.

In an effort to perpetuate the myth that the Olympics have anything to do with Ancient Greece. Rather than being something invented by a Frenchman, at the end of the 19th Century.

Here this piece of IOC protocol was treated with the minimum amount of respect possible.

The Greek national flag was raised. By a strictly gender-balanced flag-detail. Made up of all three branches of the Japanese Self-Defence Forces (JSDF).

A recording of the Greek National Anthem was then played.

Medal Ceremony.

It is IOC protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section. 

In which medals are awarded to one group of winners. Representing all the Medal Ceremonies that have taken place throughout the games.

It is always a little interesting. To see which event is chosen. As the result of a negotiation between the IOC and the hosts.

Here the Marathon events were chosen. From the discipline of Athletics.

The medals in the Womens Marathon were handed out first;

Bronze went to Molly Seidel of the US.

Silver went to Brigid Kosegei of Kenya.

Gold went to Peres Jepchirchir or Kenya.

The only thing I noted is that in accepting her medal. Peres Jepchirchir raised her index finger to the sky. Thanking God.

Something which some people might have mistaken as a Muslim gesture. Or even the salute of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

It wasn't.

It was just thanking God. Peres Jepchirchir is a devout Christian.

Then the medals in the Men's Marathon were handed out;

Bronze went to Bashir Abdi of Belgium.

Silver went to Abdi Nabeeye of The Netherlands.

Gold went to Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya.

This could be taken as a reference to that big, recurring theme of these games. Improving rights for women, particularly within Japanese society.

With the Womens Marathon not just being given equal standing as the Mens Marathon. But being given a slightly elevated standing. By being put first.

However this was also just the chronological order in which the events took place.

The Womens Marathon medals were handed out by Thomas Bach. The IOC President. While the Mens Marathon were handed out by Anita DeFrantz. The IOC Vice President.

Perhaps another sign. Of the Womens Marathon being given ever so slightly more prestige.

The bouquets of flowers in both the Womens and Mens Marathon. Were handed out by my old friend from Seville. Sebastian Lord Coe. Currently the head of the International Amateur Athletics Federation (IAAF).

Giving everyone a good long look.

At one of the main reasons. Why the IOC is now so corrupt, so incompetent. It couldn't even manage to organise an Olympics this year.

Despite being sponsored by Nike. Despite training at Nike's infamous Oregon (drug) Project. With its building dedicated to Sebastian Lord Coe.

Molly Seidel was incredibly lucky to win Bronze. Competing in only her third ever marathon.

Her 'achievement' was entirely the result of Beta Israel (Ethiopia) Israeli athlete Lonah Chemtai Salpeter. Having to pause during the race. Due to very Miley Cyrus-style menstrual cramps.

Normally Team USA wouldn't have expected to feature at all in this section.

This section dedicated to taking a long, hard look. 

At why the IOC has become so corrupt, so incompetent. It couldn't even manage to organise an Olympics this year.

Athletes Commission.

It is IOC protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section. 

In which the new members of the Athletes Commission, elected during the games, are welcomed.

The Athletes Commission functions as almost something of a Trade Union for the athletes. Attempting to protect them from the corruption, incompetence and exploitation of the IOC.

The newly elected members are;

Pau Gasol. A Mens Basketball player from Spain.

Federica Pellegrini. A Womens Swimmer from Italy.

Yuki Ota. A Mens Fencer from Japan.

Maja Martyna Wloszczowska. Womens Cyclist from Poland.

Needless to say. As the new members of the Athletes Commission made their way into the arena, up onto the Protocol stage.

They were literally led by clowns.

Thank You Volunteers.

It is IOC protocol. That each Closing Ceremony includes a section. 

In which the volunteers, the; "Games Makers" are thanked.

At an Olympics/Para-Olympics you actually have two categories of Games Maker volunteers; 

Those who work in the venues. Known as; "Field." 

Along with those who work outside of the venues. Helping with transportation and people navigating their way around. They are known as; "City."

Traditionally the Olympics have only thanked the Field Games Makers. In a first, on this occasion they thanked both the Field and City Games Makers.

The section began with a short video. Showing some of the things the Games Makers have done. Representing all of the things the Games Makers have done.

If you're the mother of any of the Games Makers. Particularly ones featured in the video. Then I'm sure you've saved this video for posterity and already watched it a million times.

However there only two things of note I picked out.

It included footage of Games Makers carrying national flags during the earlier Flag Parade section. Quite a neat trick, getting it edited together so quickly.

It also highlighted a unique duty that fell to Games Makers at these games. Due to Pandemic restrictions. They had to carry flags that would normally have been carried by an athlete from that nation.

It also showed a young, male Games Maker. Keeping a queue entertained by showing off his Break-Dancing skills. 

A reference to how "Breaking" will be making its debut as an Olympic sport in 2024. In no small part due to Asian youths' passion for it.

Despite Black Lives Matter wanting this appalling; "Thought Crime" of; "Cultural Appropriation" to be strictly outlawed.

All the Games Makers were represented here by a gender-balanced group of four. Male and Female Games Makers from Field. Along with a Male and Female Games Makers from City.

As is IOC protocol. They were handed bouquets of flowers by the four new members of the Athletes Commission. In thanks.

At around 18:15 on 13/1/22 (UK date) I'll pick this up when I can.

Edited at around 17:20 on 15/1/22 (UK date) to tidy the above and copy & paste;

Memento Mori.

It is a matter of tradition. Rather than IOC protocol. That at least one of the Olympic ceremonies contains a moment for quiet reflection. To remember those who have died since the last Olympics.

When this In Memoriam section is included. It tends to be held during the Closing Ceremony. For the rather macabre reason of allowing us to remember any Olympians killed during the games.

Japan decided to hold such a section in the Opening Ceremony.

A way to focus on the 1972 Munich Olympic Massacre. Britain's decision not to mark the 40th anniversary of the massacre at the 2012 Summer games.

Along with the issues surrounding Israel's response to the 1972 Munich Massacre.

Japan also decided to include such a section here, in the Closing Ceremony.

A reminder of those first three lessons learned by Siddhartha Gautama. On his journey towards enlightenment, becoming the first Buddha.

Lessons which are shared by all Asian Animist religions. Including the Japanese practice of Shinto.

Age, sickness and death are the inevitable fates of all living things. In short, remember that you must die (memento mori).

Plus, you know. Just in case.

The section began with one man striking one very large drum.

This may have reminded some people of a scene in the Opening Ceremony of the 2018 Winter Para-Olympics. Held in PyeongChang, Republic of Korea (RoK/South).

A section I entitled; "A Royal Welcome" welcomed us to the games. With a version of a welcoming ceremony used to greet visitors to the Joseon Royal Court.

Rather like Japan and its Edo Period. Korea, particularly South Korea, looks on the Joseon Era as its golden age. Officially North Koreans believe they were created by Kim Il-sung in, about, 1952. 

That version of a Joseon Royal Welcome also began with one man striking one very large drum. Known in Korea as a; "Pungmul-buk"

As was discussed extensively at the 2018 games. The border between China and the Korean Peninsula has always been somewhat flexible. 

It was China that helped Korea unite during the; "Three Kingdoms" Period. 18th Century B.C to 6th Century A.D.

So this type of drum performance is also common within Chinese culture.

As the 2020 Opening Ceremony explained. Japan actually invaded Joseon Korea. Twice. In 1592 and 1597.

So this type of drum performance is also common with Japanese culture.

The focus on drumming throughout the 2018 ceremonies. Was a reference to a sequence in the Opening Ceremony of the 2008 Summer Olympics. Held in Beijing, China. Which featured 2,008 drummers.

South Korea did this to mock US Black Lives Matter activists. Their absurd claim that Black people from the country of Africa invented drumming and, therefore music.

So no other race of people are ever allowed to do drumming or any form of music. Lest they commit that horrific thought crime of; "Cultural Appropriation."

Asia's even longer history of drumming and music. Shows just how absurd Black Lives Matter are.

I once watched a Fox cub play with a plank of wood. Resting, Seesaw like, on a brick. 

He discovered that if he pushed down on this plank of wood. It would make an interesting noise as it sprang back into place.

So he kept doing it.

Proving, to me at least. That not only can no one race of humans claim a monopoly on drumming. I don't think the human race can claim a monopoly on drumming.

By referencing the 2018 Winter Olympics. Japan were agreeing with and reinforcing South Korea's mockery of Black Lives Matter.

While providing another advert for the Para-Olympics. Here in the Olympic Closing Ceremony.

Within Japan this type of very large drum is known as an; "O-daiko." Literally; "Large Drum." 

They are used alongside other types of drum and percussion instruments in an artform known as; "Taiko."

*Alongside the Fans. Which inspired the Tokyo 2020 emblem. Japan used to use drums as a form of battlefield communication.

So one rhythm would covey one order. While another rhythm would convey another.

The earlier Life Beyond The Wire section. Looked at Ludwig van Beethoven's fifth symphony. 

How the pattern of the first few distinctive notes. Correspond with Morse Code/Marconi Cipher for the letter; "V."

The Morse Code being the sound of the notes. While the Marconi Cipher being the device you use to interpret them as the letter; "V."

This was done in mockery of the US/UK's efforts. To hijack my relationship with Miley Cyrus. In order to turn her into some sort of Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon.

Making the point that people have been doing that sort of thing. At least since during the Second World War, before the birth of Pop music.

By referencing how they used to do this during the; "Warring Sates" or; "Sengoku" Period (1467-1615). Japan was really driving home the point.

People have been doing this sort of thing for a very, very long time.

The technical level the US/UK are trying to do it at through Miley Cyrus. It is absolutely pitiful. Embarrassing to be associated with.

For, probably, at least a thousand years. Taiko was really the only form of music in Japan. So would be used wherever people would want to listen to music.

So weddings and other family/local celebrations. Sporting events like Sumo wrestling. In the theatre such as Kabuki. In Tea houses, brothels or anywhere else people went for pleasure.

However within Buddhism, which influences Japanese Shinto. Taiko drumming is considered to be, almost, a form of prayer.

So the noise of the drum represents the voice of the Kami (Gods, Holy Spirits, Holy Forces). While the striking of the drum represents the balance of the Universe. The people striking the drum represent people.

The entire process is a celebration of people's relationship with the Kami and the Universe.

Often, typically, Taiko performances begin with a specific type of drum-roll. 

Known as; "Oroshi" or; "The Wind Blowing Down the Mountains." Both elements of the natural environment in which the Kami can manifest themselves.

So Taiko is used heavily within Shinto Shrines and festivals. Particularly ones honouring the dead.

Such as the Bon Festival. In which the spirits of the dead return to this world from the other dimension of Naraka.

As the drummer drummed. A lone female dancer, Aoi Yamada, performed on the Pitcher's Mound stage. 

Giving it the impression of the cauldron which would hold an Eternal Flame. In memory of the dead. 

A repeat of the Memento Mori sequence in the Opening Ceremony. In which the male dancer, Mirai Moriyama also performed as an Eternal Flame in its cauldron.

Aoi Yamada also performed in the Butoh style. 

It is said that the essence of Butoh is to defy definition. Which is really what you want to hear when you're tasked with defining Butoh.

Butoh does though tend to focus on slow, hyper-controlled, meaningful movements. Often addressing topics which are considered taboo, grotesque or distressing. Such as death.

If often tries to subvert these taboos by exposing their absurdity. Leading to Butoh sometimes being described as; "The Theatre of the Absurd."

As she was performing Aoi Yamada was wearing this strange green, feather-like dress.

This was a reference to Ukraine's 2021 Eurovision Song Contest entry. "Shum" (Noise) by Go_A.

In case you didn't realise it was a reference to Ukraine's 2021 Eurovision Song Contest entry. Then the floor around stage was surrounded by lights resembling the petals of a blossoming flower.

The Cherry Blossom or Lotus Flower. Used within Asian Animist religions as a metaphor for the journey towards enlightenment.

Enlightenment was certainly something these flower petals provided. Swirling to take on the blue and yellow of the Ukrainian National Flag.

The area around the Pitcher's Mound stage was also filled with traditional Asian/Japanese paper lanterns. Providing further enlightenment.

Rather than being forced to spend 2021 juggling live hand-grenades. 

It would have been better if I'd been able to fully cover the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest. Including Ukraine's entry.

However the main thrust of Ukraine's entry. Was a hardcore Techno re-working of a traditional Ukrainian folk song.

This was done to discuss the way that Techno music. Is used to promote and recruit people to White Supremacist, Nazi and Neo-Nazi values.

While acknowledging. It is Ukraine that continues to be the main source for the promotion of such White Supremacist, Nazi and Neo-Nazi values.

Ukraine were forced to withdraw from the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Held in Tel Aviv, Israel. Due to the rabid Anti-Semitism which is central to their White Supremacist, Nazi and Neo-Nazi values.

Through their 2021 Eurovision entry. Ukraine also acknowledged why it has become the global centre for the promotion of White Supremacist, Nazi and Neo-Nazi values.

The previous Biden regime directing Ukrainian Nazis and Neo-Nazis to overthrow the Ukrainian government in 2014. Just before the 2014 Winter Olympics. Held in Ukraine's Black Sea neighbour, the Russian city of Sochi.

As punishment. For Russia's opposition to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and associated groups. Groups the previous Biden regime was not only actively supporting but seems desperately in love with.

Ukraine's 2021 Eurovision entry then went onto acknowledge. 

That having installed Nazis and Neo-Nazis in power in Ukraine. The former Biden regime then corruptly forced the dismissal of Viktor Shokin from the post of Chief Prosecutor. 

To allow the appointment of Yuriyi Lutschenko. So Yuriyi Lutschenko could falsify the so-called; "Black Ledger."   

Allowing the FBI to open a special unit to investigate; "Foreign Interference" in the 2016 US Election. In order to rig that election in favour of Hillary Clinton

Copying the South Korean Liberty Korea (Saneuri) Party's playbook. In its rigging the 2012 South Korean President Election.

Ukraine's 2021 Eurovision entry did this by invoking the famous Led Zeppelin song; "Stairway to Heaven." As in;

"Hillary Clinton was buying her stairway to the White House."

Acknowledging that even Ukraine considers the Mueller Report to be a forgery. They did most of the forging.

Brought and paid for by Joe Biden. With the corrupt appointment of his son Hunter Biden to the board of Ukrainian energy firm Burisma.

During the live performances the lead singer, Kateryna Pavlenko. Wore an almost shawl of similar green feathers.

A reference to the; "bustle in your hedgerow" the; "spring clean for the May queen."

Theresa May was Prime Minister. When Britain carried out a Novichok Nerve Agent attack against the British city of Salisbury. In that short gap between the 2018 Winter Olympics and the 2018 Winter Para-Olympics.

Quite a few British Eurovision viewers however. Pointed out how Kateryna Pavlenko resembled Orville the Duck.

Miley Cyrus was particularly interested in Ukraine's 2021 Eurovision Song Contest entry.

Using the day of the Grand Final to pitifully fish for information. Posting an Instagram picture confirming she'd had her first Covid vaccine. While wearing a Led Zeppelin t-shirt.

So this was Japan having another really good laugh at Miley Cyrus.

Comparing her to Orville the Duck. The ventriloquists' dummy controlled by Keith Harris.

Rather like Billy Ray Cyrus. Keith Harris and Orville had one novelty hit, back in the late-1980/early-1990's. Entitled; "I Wish I Could Fly."

It is about Keith Harris trying to reassure Orville. After Orville realises that no-one likes him because he can't fly. Even though he wishes he could.

It was also a reference to the CIA officers embedded within Ukrainian Air Traffic Control. 

Who deliberately directed Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 to fly into a warzone. Knowing that it was more likely that not that it would be shot down.

Back in July 2014. Just four months after Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 'mysteriously' disappeared. During the 2014 Winter Olympics.

The performance ended with Aoi Yamada bending all the way over backwards.

Bending over backwards farther than should be humanly possible. Far further than any human should ever be asked to bend over backwards.

A reference to how the Japanese hosts have been bending over backwards here.

To give the US/UK an opportunity to read what I have to write. About France, Italy and Ukraine's 2021 Eurovision Song Contest entries.

When Miley Cyrus and I could have just been speaking to each other directly. 

 

To be continued in Part 8.

17:55 on 15/1/22 (UK date). 

Edited at around 16:40 on 16/1/22 (UK date) to expand on Taiko* and generally tidy up.

The 2020 Summer Olympics Closing Ceremony Pt.6

To be read as a direct continuation of Part 5; https://watchitdie.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-2020-summer-olympics-closing_6.html

The other part of the music in this Life Beyond The Wire section. Was provided by Japanese DJ Matsunaga.

Performing on the Pitcher's Mound stage. Turning it into a DJ booth, like you might find in a Tokyo nightclub. Or even at an outdoor Rave.

DJ Matsunaga was performing Electronic Dance Music (EDM). Which is really the main form of modern Pop music. Both western along with Japanese Pop (J-Pop) and South Korean Pop (K-Pop).

I've said that all modern Pop music can trace its roots back to Jazz and Blues music. This is also true of Electronic Dance Music.

Although I should start by saying that I hate the term; "Electronic Dance Music." It's so broad as to be meaningless. Covering many sub-genres and styles of music.

It's sort of up there with describing Africa as a country.

Also nobody woke up one morning and decided;

"Today I'm going to invent a new form of music. It will start next Thursday, at precisely 3pm."

Instead all forms of music evolved over time. With different styles being blended together in a sort of melting pot. 

Rather like Isaac Newton's; "Standing on the Shoulders of Giants" which has led to so much scientific discovery. As was discussed extensively during the Opening Ceremony.

As such you can certainly use this discussion about the history of music as a metaphor.

For the US Democrat Party's desire to rigidly divide different ethnics groups. Into very broad categories or genres. Such as Asian And Pacific Islander (AAPI).

Along with Black Lives Matter's desire to keep those ethnic genres firmly segregated. By enforcing that thought crime of; "Cultural Appropriation."

You could also use it as a metaphor. To discuss Japan's very rigid and conformist culture. Something introduced during the Edo Period. Through things like the Tokugawa Class System.

A collapsing birthrate and super-aging population. Has led some to suggest that Japanese society might need to relax a bit. Reverting to the pre-Edo Period. The rather horny history of Kabuki Theatre.

There seem to have been three main paths. In the evolution of various styles of electronic music. Which now seem to get lumped together as Electronic Dance Music.

In the US Jazz evolved into Soul. Although I think Atlantic Soul was the superior label. Motown Records produced the most famous examples of this genre. 

In the 1970's Soul music evolved into Disco and Funk music.

In the Caribbean Jazz evolved into Ska and Reggae. From where it was imported into Britain. Via the so-called; "Windrush Generation" of immigrants. At the end of World War Two.

Both in the US and the UK Blues music evolved into Rock music. When Rock music had become ridiculously self-indulgent and overblown. Punk emerged as a rebellion against it.

Particularly in Britain Ska and Reggae were adopted by the Punk scene. 

In the early 1980's Punk itself started getting self-indulgent and overblown. Creating New Wave and the New Romantics. Bands like The Jam, Blondie and Spandau Ballet.

Meanwhile in West Germany they were rebelling against Rock in a different way. 

Really by making it even more overblown and self-indulgent. Abandoning Blues-derived song structures in favour of Psychedelic and Avant-Garde, really, non-structures. 

It was this so-called; "Krautrock" genre which pioneered the use of sampling. Using recorded snippets of other songs and sound-effects in new recordings. 

Probably the most famous example being Kraftwerk.

At around this same time microprocessors were becoming increasingly advanced and inexpensive. 

Allowing for the invention of a whole new raft of electronic musical instruments. Such as Synthesizers, Drum Machines and Vocorders.

Musicians began experimenting with these new instruments. Incorporating them within their styles of music. Giving birth to whole new forms of music.

So Ska, Reggae and Punk become Jungle and Drum n' Bass. While Disco became House and Krautrock became Techno. Really the three main elements of Electronic Dance Music.

Then there is the role of illegal party drugs.

The widespread availability of Ecstasy is rather central to the Rave scene of the late 1980's and early 1990's. The thing that really took Electronic Dance Music mainstream.

Although I feel I should point out. The party drug; "Ecstasy" has traditionally been a three part composition. Of MDMA, Cocaine and Amphetamines.

Taking MDMA on its own doesn't make you want to dance. It makes you want to lie of the floor.

It is actually interesting listening to Motown Records later output. During the Disco era of the 1970's. 

It is very clearly music made by people who've taken a lot of Cocaine. Being marketed to people who have taken a lot of Cocaine.

In short. You can hear the Cocaine stripping the soul out of Soul music.

It is the Swedish DJ Aviici who is widely credited with putting the soul back into Soul/Disco-derived House music. Such as in 2012's "Wake Me Up."

Aviici sampled "Ue o Muite Aruko/Sukiyaki" on the track; "Freak." Released following his death-by-suicide in 2018.

I though think the importance of illegal party drugs within Electronic Dance Music is overstated.

Drugs which are now illegal have long played a large role within society. 

Colonial Britain actually fought two wars with China. To force people along the Silk Road to use Opium grown in the British Colony of India recreationally.

The First Opium War (1839-1842). The Second Opium War (1856-1860).

The Opium based Laudanum was long used as the go-to medicine for all sorts of minor ailments. While the original recipe for the soft-drink Coca-Cola was mainly Cocaine.

It's really only in the last 100 years. Since the 1920's that the use of these very powerful and addictive drugs has begun to be restricted in any way.

One of the movies much discussed at the 2021 Oscars. Was; "The United States versus Billie Holiday." 

Set during the birth of Jazz. In many ways this is really a movie about Billie Holiday's Heroin addiction.

It was actually during the birth of Jazz/Blues. That the use of drugs like Heroin and Cocaine was becoming less widespread.

The invention of LSD certainly played a significant role in the rise of 1960's Psychedelia. However it was the microprocessor rather than any drug. Which turned Krautrock into Techno and Acid House.

Illegal drug use is very much not in keeping with Japan's rigid and conformist culture. So as the old joke goes;

"Japan's Electronic Dance Music/Club scene has got a terrible drugs problem."

"There aren't any."

The absence of illegal party drugs doesn't seem to have dampened the Japanese youth's passion for Electronic Dance Music at all. 

They're clearly interested in the music. Rather than the drugs that are associated with it.

Although. I have certainly heard rumours. Of young Japanese tourists to places like Brighton, UK. Exchanging money for illegal party drugs.

To really emphasise the focus on Youth Culture. DJ Matsunaga's performance was accompanied by lots of Skateboarders and BMX cyclists.

At these games BMX Freestyle and Skateboarding made their debuts as Olympic sports. 

An effort by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to reach out to the youth audience. In a desperate attempt to stay relevant.

Something which, no doubt, was also a significant motivation. Behind plans for Break-Dancing or; "Breaking" making its debut as an Olympic sport at the 2024 Summer Games.

Vocals during DJ Matsunaga's performance were provided by milet a young female Japanese Popstar. Who made her debut in 2018, releasing her first album in 2020.

However the first song milet performed was not one of hers. It was "Gurenge" (Red Lotus) by LiSA (Risa Oribe). A 34 year old female Japanese Popstar.

Although I mean no disrespect to milet. It seems that LiSA is a much more accomplished musician. 

A classically trained pianist who began her career in the Indie band Chucky. She writes most of her own material. Along with material for other people.

Whereas milet just seems to perform songs that other people have written. As she is doing here.

Both LiSA and milet are signed to Sony Music. That massive Japanese conglomerate that seems to be trying to do me a personal favour.

By rescuing Miley Cyrus from her US/UK captors.

Also, in the process. Trying to do the US/UK a massive favour. Even if they are too stupid/insane to realise it.

The contrast between milet and LiSA. Represent the possible alternate futures that lie ahead for Miley Cyrus.

Is she just a Popstar who performs other people's songs? Such as the Mike Will Made It 2013 "Bangerz" album. 

A Popstar who, at the age of 29, has now hit her expiry date. So will soon disappear.

Or does Miley Cyrus actually have musical talent?

The sort of person who could now go on to develop both artistically and personally. Really only at the start of what could be a very long career.

milet's performance of Gurenge actually began with a few bars of another song. "I Will Survive." Not the Gloria Gaynor version. The Snuff version.

This was very brief and subtle. However if you have "Musician" in your job title. Then it's the sort of thing you definitely should have noticed.

Of late America seems to have become obsessed with Drag Culture. Particularly Drag Karaoke. 

Just as Britain became obsessed with it. Back in 2005/06.

The US Olympic broadcaster is the NBC network. 

That infamous Miley Cyrus/Elon Musk episode of Saturday Night Live (SNL). Wasn't the only thing NBC did to utterly humiliate themselves in 2021.

They also featured Miley Cyrus in the June 2021 "Stand By You" concert. Broadcast on their Peacock streaming platform. This was, essentially, just an hour of Drag Karaoke.

Anyone even vaguely familiar with Karaoke, let alone Drag Karaoke. Knows the first rule;

"The moment any drunken, emotional wretch starts singing I Will Survive."

"You know they won't."

The Japanese are certainly familiar with Karaoke. Having invented it. It being a Japanese word meaning; "Empty Orchestra."

At around 19:40 on 11/1/22 (UK date) I'll pick this up tomorrow. 

Edited at around 17:45 on 12/1/22 (UK date) to tidy the above and copy & paste;

The next song performed by milet was "Hymn de l'Amour." Originally by, possibly the most famous French female singer ever, Edith Piaf.

This was clearly a sign of affection, "Love" almost towards France. Who will be picking up the baton from Tokyo. Hosting the 2024 Summer games.

It particularly showed that Japan agrees. France really should have won the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest.

Although I should point out. It's part of the enduring success of the Eurovision Song Contest. That it is utterly impossible to say, definitely, what is the best song.

You only need to look at how many favourite songs you've had in the past year. Let alone in your life. To see what a subjective question it is.

So this wasn't like in 2016. When Ukraine broke all of the Song Contest's rules. Yet were still handed victory.

It's just that in our opinion. "Viola" (Here) by Barbara Pravi was a slightly better entry. Than Italy's "Zitti E Buoni" by Maneskin.

Barbara Pravi performed in very much in the style of the; "Chanteur/Chanteuse." An important and rather uniquely French chapter in the history of music. 

Chanteur/Chanteuse are rather like buskers. They would sing on the street for money from passers-by. 

However they would also sell sheet-music to those passers-by. So they could sing the songs at home, for entertainment. Before radio, let alone TV, became popular. 

Some Chanteur/Chanteuse then took the next step. Recording their songs onto records. Then selling those records for people to listen to at home. 

Making them amongst the first recording artists.

This discussion of the history and evolution of music. Was really one of the only things that happened during 2020. Funnily enough, the people at the Eurovision Song Contest are quite into music.

France's entry also seemed to best encapsulate the main themes of the 2021 Song Contest.

French is a gendered language. So Chanteur is a male singer in this style. While Chanteuse is a female singer in this style. 

Touching on that theme of ridiculous self-selecting gender pronouns.

During the Lockdown's of 2020 Barbara Pravi supplemented her income by selling her compositions on the Chinese owned Social Media platform TikTok. 

Making it an example of a New Silk Road for Chanteuses to sell their songs on.

The song is all about the inner, emotional turbulence being experienced by this young woman. 

Just like we were supposed to be captivated by the inner, emotional turbulence being experienced by Miley Cyrus.

As an ethnically Iranian woman. Barbara Pravi bears some physical resemblance to Desiree Akhavan. The ethnically Iranian woman who wrote the book/TV show; "The Bisexual."

It is rumours that Miley Cyrus may be bisexual that was supposed to shock the World from its axis. Forcing us to prostrate ourselves at the feet of our new Messiah, Joe Biden.

The US was particularly interested in using Miley Cyrus as a Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon. 

To exert pressure on Iran. During negotiations over the Joint Comprehensive Plan Of Action (JCPOA). Often referred to as; "The Iran Nuclear Deal."

Something which spectacularly backfired on the US.

Although I still don't follow the thought process. 

The US believed this would lead to a more moderate government being elected in Iran. Instead it led to a more hardline government being elected in Iran.

Leaving the US in the difficult position. 

Of having to make its humiliating climbdown to the new Iranian government. When it could have made its humiliating climbdown to the previous, more moderate Iranian government.

The fact that the current Biden regime will have to make a humiliating climbdown to Iran. Is never something that's been up for debate.

The previous Biden regime made it inevitable. When it imposed the sanctions the JCPOA relieves back in 2012.

Probably the most famous Chanteuse, Edith Piaf. Was most active during the late 1920's through to the 1950's. A period in which Europe was completely dominated by World War Two.

So the video in support of France's entry. Was full of World War Two era imagery. Particularly the; "Rattling Death Trains" of the Spanish Civil War and the Nazi Holocaust.

A reference to how Europe once again finds itself in the dark shadow of Nazism and Fascism. A shadow being cast by Ukraine. Particularly its ethnically Turkish Tatar population.

Not only did France's entry encapsulate all of the 2021 Song Contest's main themes. It did it in a very subtle and discreet way.

So you really couldn't point to any one element and say; "Oh that is a reference to this or this is a reference to that."

Which is very keeping with the Song Contest's, really golden rule; "No Overt Politics."

Even if that is extremely annoying for the people who have to write it up.

In contrast Maneskin's "Zitti E Buoni" was a good song.

At the risk of a tangent. It is one of the big musical broadcasting differences between Continental Europe and Britain.

In Continental Europe you have a whole range of radio stations. Each dedicated to a range of different genres of music. Playing a range of songs from within that genre.

In Britain you've got about 12 radio stations. All playing the same 12 songs. By the same 12 bland unit shifters.

So after the Song Contest. It was actually a huge relief to hear Maneskin's songs being played on British radio. 

However, I think even they'll agree. It just wasn't a particularly strong Eurovision song.

The band was formed at the JFK High School in Rome, Italy. 

A reference to how JFK's assassination ended his opposition to the Civil Rights movement in the US. Finally forcing the Democrats to give up on segregation and so-called; "Jim Crow" laws. 

It's said the band selected their name. In order to perform in the 2016 "Pulse" music contest.

In reference to the August 2016 attack on the Pulse nightclub in Florida, US. Part of the Democrats systematic campaign of violence against Hispanic Americans. The "mules" of Black Lives Matter.

Beyond that it was really just a reference to the T-Rex song; "Children of the Revolution."

Specifically that performance of Children of the Revolution. By Elton John and Pete Doherty. At the 2005 Live 8 Concerts.

It was me drawing attention to the success of the Live 8 Concerts that put Maneskin over the line in the public vote.

In short, I accidentally lent them some of my popularity.

Unfortunately it is quite a challenge to read a crowd of upwards of 180 million people. Particularly when you're not being given much else to work with.

As I'm sure some people would know. If they ever found themselves successful enough to be routinely performing to audiences of upwards of 180 million people.

All of which allows us all another big laugh at the expense of Miley Cyrus.

Who, in a desperate attempt to fish for information about Eurovision. Started talking, directly to Maneskin on Instagram.

As an alternative to talking, directly to me on Instagram. The person everyone else looks to for an explanation of what happened at Eurovision.

The reason Maneskin won.

Throughout the Second World War. Edith Piaf stayed in Nazi-Occupied France.

She became very good friends with the Vichy-French government. Along with the Nazi-Occupiers it served first and foremost.

Edith Piaf was given a luxury apartment above L'Etoile de Kleber cabaret club. 

Extremely popular with officers from the near-by headquarters of the Gestapo. The much feared Nazi secret police.

In 1941 Edith Piaf even undertook a propaganda tour of Berlin, Nazi Germany. To show how happy and grateful the French people were at being absorbed into the Nazi Reich.

After France was liberated Edith Piaf was tried for Treason. As a traitor and Nazi collaborator.

All of which serves as a warning to Miley Cyrus.

In choosing to collaborate with the US/UK. Particularly with the Biden regime. In their efforts to use her as a sort of Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon.

Miley Cyrus is choosing to collaborate with Nazis and Fascists.

Something which I think is likely to strain her relationship with Ariana Grande. Miley Cyrus actively fighting for people's 'right' to bomb Ariana Grande concerts.

It certainly seems likely to discourage people from attending Miley Cyrus concerts. Given the pro-bombing stance.

Earlier in this section there was a performance of "Ue o Muite Aruko/Sukiyaki." An incredibly effective Japanese Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon of the 1960's.

An attempt to drive home the message to the US/UK. In their attempts to hijack my relationship with Miley Cyrus. To use her as a Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon.

That people have been doing this sort of thing all day, every day. Really since the invention of Pop music.

By referencing the Eurovision Song Contest. Particularly Edith Piaf. Japan was reinforcing the message.

Actually. People have been doing this sort of thing all day, every day. Since Before the invention of Pop music.

The technical level the US/UK are trying to do it at. Through Miley Cyrus.

Is absolutely pitiful. Embarrassing to be around.

That's even before you get into the Nazi/Fascist ideology it's being done in service of.

This was also another sign of Japanese support for Russia. 

Particularly the way Russia was attacked by the former Biden regime during the 2014 Winter Olympics. 

Most notably by the former Biden regime directing Nazis and Neo-Nazis. To overthrow the government of host city Sochi's Black Sea neighbour, Ukraine.

The Closing Ceremony for the 2014 Winter Olympics. Included a section with this magnificent flying machine. Sort of a sailing ship held aloft by hot air balloons.

This was a reference to the 1943 movie; "The Adventures of Baron von Munchausen." Produced by Nazi Propagandist Joseph Goebbels. This movie is considered to be one of the first examples of; "Soft-Power."

Prior to that propaganda could be divided into two types; "Black Propaganda," making your enemy look bad. "White Propaganda," making yourselves look good.

Through The Adventures of Baron von Munchausen Goebbels realised. 

That you could more subtly and effectively get people to like you by entertaining them. Rather than boring them with lectures on why they should like you.

That is the general concept behind; "Soft-Power."

I don't think anyone knows the technical term for what the US/UK are trying to achieve with Miley Cyrus.

Although people have been doing this sort of thing all day, every. For a very long time.

We don't think anyone's ever been quite so stupid before. As to set out to make everyone hate them.

Next The Tokyo Paradise Ska Orchestra joined with DJ Matsunaga. For a rather unique version of Beethoven's; "Ode To Joy."

Ludwig van Beethoven is a German born Austrian. Which isn't really in keeping with Japan's show of affection for France. The next Summer games hosts.

So this Electronic Ska version of Ode to Joy. Quickly morphed into the; "Can Can" by French composer Jacques Offenbach. 

The piece of music that is probably most synonymous with French, particularly Paris, cabaret clubs. 

The sort of cabaret club where Edith Piaf would perform for Vichy officials and the Nazi-Occupiers they served first and foremost.

In contrast. Beethoven's music was used to actively resist the Nazi Occupation of France.  

The first few, striking, notes of Beethoven's fifth symphony. Are actually Morse Code or; "Marconi Cipher" for the letter; "V." As in; "V for Victory."

The BBC's Europe Service used to use it frequently in radio broadcasts into Nazi Occupied France. A way to build morale. 

These seemingly normal radio broadcasts. Also contained specific coded messages for the French Resistance. 

A very clear early example of; "Sharp Power." Despite the Atlantic Council still trying to insist that Russia invented Sharp Power in 2014. As part of its efforts to invade Ukraine.

In their efforts to hijack my relationship with Miley Cyrus. To use her as a Sharp Power/Propaganda weapon.

The US/UK believe that putting about rumours that she may be bisexual. Along with the fact she menstruates. Will be enough to shock the World from its axis. 

Those BBC Europe Service radio broadcasts. Were used to instruct specific Resistance cells. To blow up specific targets. At specific times.

Further driving home the message to the US/UK;

That people have been doing this sort of thing for a very long time. 

The technical level they're trying to do it at through Miley Cyrus is pitiful. Embarrassing to be associated with.

We're being extremely charitable. When we describe it as; "Pre-Kindergarten Level."

At around 18:20 on 12/1/22 (UK date) I hope to finish this section after dinner.

Edited at around 20:40 on 12/1/22 (UK date) to tidy the above and copy & paste;

I think Beethoven's Ode to Joy. Is now, perhaps, most famous as the anthem of the European Union (EU).

How Beethoven's Ode to Joy became the EU's anthem is, really, the story of one interesting family. The Coundenhove-Kalergi's.

The Coudenhove-Kalergi family was formed in 1857. 

When Count Franz Karl von Coudenhove. A member of the aristocratic Coudenhove family of Bohemia, now The Czech Republic. Married Marie Kalergi. A member of the equally aristocratic Kalergi family of Crete/Greece.

The marriage produced six children, including the first-born son, Count Heinrich von Coudenhove-Kalergi. Who went on to be a diplomat for the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Count Heinrich's final diplomatic posting was to Tokyo, Japan. One day he fell off his horse, only to be rescued by Mitsuko Aoyama. A Japanese woman of high, Samurai, birth who had trained as a Geisha.

They soon married and returned to Bohemia. To raise their seven children. 

The eldest of those children, Count Hans von Coudenhove-Kalergi. Enthusiastically embraced the ideology of Nazism. 

Allying the Coudenhove-Kalergis with Nazi Germany during World War Two. Eventually being imprisoned for his efforts. 

The second eldest son, Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi. He went in a very different direction. Thoroughly rejecting Nazism and fleeing to Britain during World War Two.

There he set about promoting his own version of a single European Empire or Reich. Outlined in his 1923 book; "Pan-Europa."

This became the founding manifesto of the "Paneuropean Union." Which adopted Beethoven's Ode to Joy as its anthem.

Inspired by the Paneuropean Union, when it came into being. The EU also adopted Beethoven's Ode to Joy as its anthem.

One of the main differences. Between Hans Coudenhove-Kalergi's vision of a Pan-European Reich and Richard Coudenhove-Kalergi's vision of a Pan-European Reich. Was the issue of race.

Han's Pan-European Reich was the same as Hitler's. The superior Aryan race ruling over all the inferior races.

Richard's Pan-European Reich was very different. He envisioned the elimination of the races. 

It's great replacement with a single Caucasian-Negroid race. The "Kalergi Plan" he laid out in his 1924 book; "Praktischer Idealismus." 

This battle of ideologies is one that is increasingly being played out again. On the edges of the EU and the Eastern European nations it borders.

The Nazis and Neo-Nazis that the Biden regime has enthusiastically allied itself with in Ukraine. Obviously subscribe to Count Hans and Hitler's vision of a Pan-European Reich.

They frequently rally themselves as the resistance to the Kalergi Plan. Which, obviously, is a Jewish conspiracy(!)

They, along with the Biden regime. Are the dark cloud of Nazism and Fascism which is, once again, casting itself over the European continent.

It has often been claimed. That Richard von Coudenhove-Kalergi is the inspiration. Behind the anti-Nazi resistance activist; "Victor Lazlo." In the famous 1942 movie; "Casablanca."

There is a famous scene in Casablanca. Where the Nazi-Occupiers are singing their Nazi songs in Rick's cafe.

Victor Lazlo rushes down the stairs and commands the orchestra. In their, almost, uniform of white dinner jackets and bowties. Brass instruments in hand. 

To start playing the French National Anthem; "La Marsiellaise."

When the orchestra begins to play. The entire cafe joins them in song. Drowning out the Nazi-Occupiers.

In stark contrast. In how Edith Piaf used to perform for Vichy officials. Along with the Nazi-Occupiers they served first and foremost.

I'm sure I don't need to explain to any Spanish speakers. Any fans of Tejano music;

"Casa Blanca" means; "White House."

The section ended with shots of those girls skipping. With broad grins, from ear-to-ear. 

That; "I'll Tell My Ma" joke was an absolutely amazing in-joke. In worked on so many levels. It has to be the funniest thing I did in all of 2021.

As if to show their gratitude. All the Japanese performers bowed enthusiastically.

Then danced their way out of the arena.

 

To be continued in Part 7.

21:10 on 12/1/22 (UK date).