Скачать или смотреть "Maps of Our Spectacular Bodies" By Maddie Mortimer

In "Maps of Our Spectacular Bodies," Maddie Mortimer explores the concept of the human body as a map, a terrain to be explored and charted. Mortimer begins her essay with an anecdote about a friend who discovers a freckle on her body that she had never noticed before, which leads to a discussion about the ways in which we relate to our own bodies. Mortimer argues that we often see our bodies as objects to be scrutinized and judged, rather than as landscapes to be appreciated and explored.Throughout the essay, Mortimer draws on a variety of literary and cultural references to explore the theme of the body as a map. She cites the works of Emily Dickinson, Walt Whitman, and Sylvia Plath, as well as the television show "Grey's Anatomy" and the film "The Matrix." Through these references, Mortimer emphasizes the idea that our bodies are not simply physical objects, but rather complex and dynamic spaces that can be explored and understood in a variety of ways.Mortimer also explores the relationship between the body and the self. She notes that our bodies are not static entities, but rather are constantly changing and evolving. She writes, "Our bodies are always in flux, never static, and they shape and are shaped by our experiences." This idea is reflected in the way in which we talk about our bodies - we might describe ourselves as feeling "tired" or "energetic," for example, or as having a particular emotion "in our gut." These descriptions suggest a deep connection between our physical bodies and our emotional and mental states.At the same time, Mortimer acknowledges the ways in which our society can limit our ability to appreciate and explore our bodies. She notes that women, in particular, are often taught to see their bodies as objects of male gaze, rather than as landscapes to be explored and appreciated. Mortimer writes, "We are told to hide our bodies, to make them smaller, to be ashamed of them." This message is reinforced by advertising, popular media, and societal expectations, which all promote a narrow and unrealistic ideal of beauty.Despite these limitations, Mortimer argues that there are ways in which we can reclaim our bodies as maps, and explore and appreciate them in all their complexity. She suggests that we can start by simply paying attention to our bodies, and becoming more aware of the sensations and experiences they provide us with. This might involve engaging in activities like yoga, meditation, or dance, which can help us to connect more deeply with our physical selves.Ultimately, Mortimer's essay offers a powerful argument for the importance of seeing our bodies as maps, rather than simply as objects to be judged and scrutinized. By exploring our bodies in this way, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our experiences, and find greater appreciation for the complex and ever-changing landscapes that make us who we are.