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Adobe – Houses, Software and The Five

 

In my daily work life, I am a regular Adobe user.  When I say regular, I mean daily. However, I had never paid any attention to the name until last week, when I finished another Robert McCammon novel. This one is called “The Five,” a story of an American rock band striving to survive on the fringes of the music industry. As they go on what may be their last tour across the American Southwest, a veteran marine sniper targets them because of a song that claims US soldiers are killing children in Iraq.The sniper, on the edge of suicide, believes he must settle the score.

McCammon delves deep into the mystical, religious, and profound feelings afflicting people in this story. Core to the narrative is the need to write a final song and how a song can be so special that it changes lives. To this day, I have songs that I associate with times in my life, and hearing them brings back memories, visuals, and even smells.

One of the things that caught my attention was McCammon’s frequent mention of “adobe-styled buildings.” As a daily Adobe user, I wondered how on earth there could be a building style named the same as a software company.

Adobe-Style Buildings

An adobe-style construction is distinguished by the use of dried mud bricks, which are typically made by compressing a mixture of sand, clay and straw (or grass) with water and leaving it to dry in the sun. These homes often feature rustic, coarse exteriors and are prevalent in regions with arid climates, such as the American Southwest and parts of Mexico. They typically have thick earthen walls, flat roofs, and a focus on natural materials.

Common Origins

The Adobe software company and adobe-style buildings share a common origin: the word “adobe” itself. Both derive from the Arabic term “al-tub,” which means “the brick.” The software company adopted the name because it represented a solid foundation for creativity, much like the durable bricks used in traditional adobe construction.

The Power of Words and Personal Experiences

This exploration into the word “adobe” highlights how words can carry rich histories and multiple meanings. In McCammon’s novel, music holds a similar power, evoking deep memories and emotions. The stories we tell, whether through software or songs, are built on the foundations of our language, just like adobe bricks build strong, enduring homes.

As a passionate reader and writer, I find that understanding the origins and meanings of words can deepen our appreciation for both the language we use and the tools we rely on. Just as adobe bricks form the sturdy walls of homes, the words we choose build the stories we tell and the connections we make.

 

Parliament

I mentioned in a previous post that this is the year of elections around the world with 2024 being more than just an election year.  This is perhaps the election year.

Globally, more voters than ever before will go to the polls, as at least 64 countries (plus the European Union)—representing approximately 49% of the world’s population—are scheduled to hold national elections.

In my country, South Africa we are 3 days away from voting in an election that most people hope will turn around the absolute destruction by our ruling party over the last 30 years.

A couple of days ago I heard a discussion about the origins of the word parliament and some interesting facts about parliaments across the world.

Origin of the word Parliament

The word “parliament” has French origins, deriving from the French word “parler,” which means “to talk” or “to speak”.  This etymology reflects the fundamental purpose of a parliament: a place for discussion and debate. The concept of a parliamentary body evolved naturally over time as a solution to the daily political needs of rulers and their governments, rather than being deliberately designed from the outset.

I once heard someone said that they don’t understand why the French use so many letters if they are only going to pronounce half of them when they speak.  The same goes for parler, which is pronounced /paʁ.le/.  This notation uses the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to represent the sounds:

/p/: A voiceless bilabial plosive, similar to the “p” in “speak.”

IPA phonetics

/a/: An open front unrounded vowel, like the “a” in “father.”

/ʁ/: A voiced uvular fricative, which is a guttural “r” sound typical in French.

/l/: A voiced alveolar lateral approximant, similar to the “l” in “like.”

/e/: A close-mid front unrounded vowel, like the “e” in “bed.”

 

 

Two Houses to this day – The Bicameral System

The House of Lords has its roots in the period when the King of England was assisted in ruling by lords and clergy as counsellors. Following the Norman Conquest of 1066, the kings would confer on issues of state, taxation, and legislation with a smaller, permanent inner council made up of barons, bishops, and other high-ranking officials.

During the Anglo-Saxon era, the Witan, a gathering of the king’s principal counsellors, nobles, and religious authorities, gave rise to these councils. These councils eventually gave rise to the Great Council of peers and bishops, which is today known as the Parliament of England.

The House of Commons was established in the 13th century as part of the evolution of the English Parliament. Its creation was driven by the need for broader representation and a more democratic approach to governance.

Model Parliament (1295) – Summoned by King Edward I, the Model Parliament included not only nobles and clergy but also elected representatives from counties and boroughs. This marked a significant step towards the establishment of the House of Commons as a distinct body.

Reasons for Its Establishment:

Representation: The House of Commons was established to represent the broader population, including commoners from various counties and boroughs, providing a counterbalance to the aristocratic House of Lords.

Taxation and Legislation: The Commons gained the exclusive right to grant taxes and vote on expenditures, ensuring that the populace had a say in financial matters and the making of laws.

Political Balance: The establishment of the House of Commons created a bicameral system that balanced the influence of the monarchy and the nobility with that of the common people, promoting a more democratic and accountable government.

Why the Red and Green?

The use of red and green colours extends to the chairs, seats, and carpets in the UK Parliament:

House of Lords – Red: In the House of Lords, red is prominently used in the upholstery, carpets, and other furnishings.  As an expensive and rare colour at the time, red symbolised nobility royalty and authority.

House of Commons – Green: Similarly, in the House of Commons, green is the dominant colour for the benches, seats, and other furnishings.  This tradition highlights the chamber’s association with the common people and its more modest origins where green was readily available from nature.

These colour schemes have been maintained for several centuries and in many countries, reinforcing the distinct identities and roles of the two houses within the UK Parliament.

Shogun the Mini Series

I was raised in rural South Africa in the 1980s, and reading became a way for me to pass the time on long bus rides to school.  In one room, my parents had hundreds of paperback fiction volumes stacked floor to ceiling in shelves covering an entire wall.  I was permitted to read any book, with the exception of James Clavell’s one banned book, “Shōgun.”  I could read Stephen King horror stories, which terrified me to death, but I wasn’t allowed to read Shōgun.

Our national broadcaster aired the television series ” Shōgun,” starring Yôko Shimada as Mariko and Richard Chamberlain as Anjin-san, in 1980.  There was just one television channel available back then.  We never missed the sacred evening hours of the “Shōgun”!

And 44 years later, Shōgun is back in 2024!  Although we don’t watch much TV these days, the latest “Shogun” is excellent.  We no longer need to plan our schedules to watch television at 7 PM on Thursdays, thanks to streaming services such as Disney + where it is available in South Africa

The original Toranaga

The Shōgun

The title refers to the hereditary military dictators who effectively ruled Japan from 1192 to 1867.  The word ” Shōgun ” comes from the Japanese “sei-i-taishōgun,” which means “great general who subdues barbarians.”

Historical resilience strategies

I was really touched by episode 4 where Mariko explains the principle of the eightfold fence to John Blackthorn.

In the series, the concept of the Eightfold Fence is portrayed as a significant cultural and psychological tool taught from a very young age.  It serves as a coping mechanism, particularly for characters such as Mariko, Fuji, and Lord Toranaga.  This metaphorical fence represents an internal barrier that individuals build to protect their emotional and psychological state in times of stress or challenge.  Mariko, for instance, uses this concept to maintain her composure and resilience, educating others about its importance in navigating the complex social and political landscapes of feudal Japan.  The Eightfold Fence symbolises a way of compartmentalising personal distress or duty, thus allowing characters to act with poise and strategic foresight in difficult situations.

Japanese philosophy in Western therapy

Hearing Mariko’s explanation, I thought that there are parallels to be drawn between Viktor Frankl’s philosophy and the principles of the Eightfold Fence, particularly in how both concepts deal with coping mechanisms and finding inner strength in the face of adversity.

Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy is centred on the belief that the primary human drive is not pleasure, as Freud had suggested, but rather the pursuit of what we find meaningful.  Frankl’s experience as a Holocaust survivor led him to conclude that even in the most absurd, painful, and dehumanised situation, life has potential meaning and therefore even suffering is meaningful.  This philosophy is encapsulated in his famous book, “Man’s Search for Meaning”.

The Eightfold Fence, as depicted in the series “Shōgun,”  is a metaphorical concept representing an impenetrable wall within oneself, a mental barrier that individuals are taught to build from an early age.  It serves as a coping mechanism, allowing people to compartmentalise feelings and separate personal and professional views, thus enabling them to retain control over themselves even in tough situations.

Reviving a Classic: Reimagining ‘Shōgun’ for a Modern Audience

As one of the most significant adaptations in television history, “Shōgun” has captivated audiences across generations.  This comparison explores various aspects such as viewership trends, critical ratings, and production budgets, offering insights into how the portrayal of early modern Japan has been reimagined for a new generation of viewers.  Whether you’re a fan of the original series or curious about its modern interpretation, this table provides a snapshot of how both series have made their distinct marks on the landscape of television drama.

Manchester Orchestra

My YouTube feed recommended a song named “The Silence” by the Manchester Orchestra sometime in 2022.  I have never heard of them but listened, and IT WAS AMAZING!

Manchester Orchestra doesn’t just write songs; they carve out pieces of your soul and set them to music.  Their lyrics possess unflinching honesty, transforming personal struggles into gut-wrenching anthems.  If you crave music with emotional depth, these are the poets for your playlist.

Here’s why Manchester Orchestra’s raw lyrics will hook you from the first listen:

  • Confessional but Universal: They tackle love, loss, addiction, and doubt with a directness that makes their pain relatable.

  • Striking Imagery: Their words paint vivid pictures, amplifying the emotional impact.

  • No sugarcoating: They don’t shy away from messy truths or bleak moments, creating a sense of catharsis for the listener.

If you’re ready for a band that makes you feel something, start exploring Manchester Orchestra’s discography.  Their vulnerability just might become your armour.

Because of the name, I naturally assumed that the band was British, and because I hardly ever pick up accents in songs, I kept thinking that.  I even thought they were a gospel band for a while after listening to the lyrics.  It turned out not to be the case at all!

Band history

Beautiful Manchester UK

Manchester Orchestra, an American indie rock band, has an interesting origin for its name. Formed in 2004, the band hails from the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia.  They chose the name “Manchester” as a nod to the English city of Manchester, a place frequently associated with bohemian culture and rich musical history.  In an interview, lead singer Andy Hull explained that he selected “Manchester” because he had spent a summer listening to nothing but The Smiths, an iconic English band.  The addition of “Orchestra” was inspired by his desire to create a collective musical experience, envisioning all his friends coming together to form an orchestra.  Thus, the band’s name reflects both musical inspiration and a vision of collaboration.

Why Manchester and Orchestra

Now, as this is a language site, let us first clear up any confusion.
Manchester Orchestra is the name of an American indie rock band.  That, to me, was just unexpected on so many levels!

The name Manchester has intriguing etymological origins:

Celtic Roots: The name Manchester originates from the Latin name Mamucium or its variant Mancunio.  These names are generally thought to represent a Latinization of an original Brittonic name.  The widely accepted etymology suggests that it comes from the Brittonic word “mamm”, which means “breast.”  This reference to a “breast-like hill” likely alludes to the topography of the area.

Roman Influence: The name Mameceastre was used in the Domesday Book of 1086.  It evolved from the Old English term “ceaster,”  which denoted a Roman town or city. This linguistic shift reflected the Anglo-Saxons’ recognition of the Roman heritage that once thrived in the region.  Over time, the name gradually transformed into its modern form, Manchester.

Mediaeval Latin Form: The adjective Mancunian also stems from the Medieval Latin form of the place-name, Mancunium.  This term encapsulates the historical and cultural significance of the city, connecting it to its ancient roots and the vibrant community that has shaped its identity over centuries.

Manchester has a rich and layered history, blending Celtic origins, Roman influence, and the evolution of language.  Its name reflects both geographical features and the enduring spirit of a city that has left an indelible mark on art, industry, and culture. 

Manchester Orchestra Songs

Manchester Orchestra is known for its emotionally intense music, blending indie rock with touches of alternative and post-rock elements.

The Maze

“The Maze” is a powerful and introspective song that delves into themes of vulnerability, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships. Let’s explore the lyrics and their deeper meaning

The Maze – Amazing lyrics

In summary, “The Maze” captures the complexities of love, vulnerability, and the journey towards understanding. Manchester Orchestra weaves emotion and introspection into a beautiful musical experience.

The Silence

“The Silence” by Manchester Orchestra is a deeply introspective song that explores themes of existential contemplation, inner turmoil, and the search for meaning.  Let’s break down the lyrics and explore their meaning.

The Silence

YouTube Reaction

I was introduced to the band by a YouTube algorithm, and sometimes, as in this case, I’m thankful for algorithms.

Manchester Orchestra on YouTube

 

23 000 Listeners comments are worth analysing.

Emotional Impact: Many listeners mentioned feeling strong emotions, reflected in words like “love,” “lost,” and “thank.”  This indicates that the song had a significant emotional impact on them.

Personal Connection: Words like “me,” “my,” “I’m,” and “personal” suggest that many listeners felt a personal connection to the song, finding aspects of it relatable or reflective of their own experiences.

Music Appreciation: The frequent mention of “song” and “music” points to a general appreciation for the composition, indicating that listeners were moved or impressed by the musical aspects.

Healing or Therapeutic Effect: References to experiences of loss and gratitude, as seen in words like “lost” and “thank,” could imply that many found the song to be healing or therapeutic.

Engagement and Community: The use of “you,” “your,” and direct addressing (“thank you”) suggests that there is active engagement with the artist or community, highlighting a sense of connection and gratitude.

It illustrates the depth of the listeners’ experiences, ranging from personal resonance and emotional impact to appreciation of the music and the communal aspect of shared listening experiences.

In summary, “The Silence” captures the human condition—our longing for connection, our vulnerability, and the quiet moments that shape our lives.  Manchester Orchestra weaves emotion and introspection into a powerful musical experience.

 

Albums

Manchester Orchestra Albums

Manchester Orchestra’s discography offers a captivating journey through their artistic evolution.  Their early albums, like “I’m Like a Virgin Losing a Child,” burst with raw, youthful energy.  Later releases, such as “Simple Math” and “Mean Everything to Nothing,” showcased a maturing sound, venturing into darker emotional territory.

Their conceptual album “A Black Mile to the Surface” explored a narrative alongside complex instrumentation.  2021’s “The Million Masks of God” continued pushing boundaries, blending elements of folk and electronic music.  Most recently, “The Valley of Vision” reveals a band comfortable with experimentation.

Exploring Manchester Orchestra’s albums is a rewarding deep dive into a band that refuses to remain stagnant.

What is Lofi Music?

Lofi musicIn South Africa, we have an Eastern Cape born hip-hop artist known as Loufi. His domain is primarily house music, and I’m quite a fan.  His tunes are awesome background music at our gatherings among friends and family.  An added bonus is his choice to perform in Afrikaans, my mother tongue.

Study with lofi music

During my search for music to aid with work and concentration, I noticed ‘lofi’ music frequently ranking on YouTube. Overlooking the spelling variation (Loufi, the SA artist, versus ‘lofi’ study music), I was momentarily in awe of Loufi’s prodigious output, seemingly tailored to enhance focus!

Perhaps it was the overwhelming presence of ‘lofi’ tracks on YouTube or the name’s slight difference, but I began to question whether Loufi was indeed behind this genre appearing in searches for focus music.

Curiosity led me to look up “What is lofi music,” revealing that it isn’t actually produced by Loufi.  While the disappointment was tangible, I couldn’t help but speculate about the clear connection between his stage name and this genre. Here’s the intriguing distinction I discovered.

It turns out that lofi in lofi music stands for low fidelity.  The low part is easy, but what does fidelity mean?

The word “fidelity” has its origins in the Latin word “fidēlis,” which means “faithful, loyal, trustworthy.”  It entered the English language in the 15th century.

To sum it up:

Faithfulness to a person, cause, or belief: This could be loyalty within a marriage, dedication to a job, or commitment to an ideal.

Accuracy in reproducing something: For example, a high-fidelity sound system aims to replicate music as closely as possible to the original recording.

Origins, Sound, and Cultural Significance

Lo-fi (short for “low fidelity”) is a genre of music known for its raw, nostalgic, and often dreamy qualities.  Here are key elements defining this unique musical style:

The term “lo-fi” was initially used to describe music with noticeable technical imperfections, such as background noise or distortion.

 

The Lo-Fi Sound

Technical Imperfections: Lo-fi music often embraces technical “flaws” for their aesthetic appeal, such as tape hiss, crackles, and off-key notes.

Simple Arrangements: Many lo-fi tracks use basic instrumentation, giving the music a raw, intimate feel.

Drum Loops and Sampling: Lo-fi hip hop often uses drum loops and samples from jazz, soul, and other sources.

Melancholic or Nostalgic Mood: The lo-fi sound often evokes a feeling of melancholy or nostalgia, using vintage sounds and melodies.

The Benefits of Lofi

Lofi music’s unique characteristics aren’t just for aesthetics; they offer a multitude of well-being advantages.  Here’s a glimpse into how lofi music can positively impact your life:

🤩 Mood Enhancement: Feeling down or sluggish? Lofi’s relaxing nature can elevate your mood by triggering the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and well-being.

🧘 Sharpened Focus: The repetitive and predictable loops characteristic of lofi music can lull you into a state of comfortable detachment from external distractions.  This allows your brain to concentrate more effectively on the task at hand, making it a perfect study companion.

😎 Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Lofi music acts as a natural stress reliever. By lowering cortisol levels, the stress hormone, it promotes feelings of calmness and eases tension in your body and mind.

🥱 Improved Sleep Quality: Can’t seem to catch those elusive Zzz’s?  Lofi’s gentle rhythms can lull you into a peaceful slumber.  The dreamy soundscapes create a sense of security and relaxation, ideal for preparing your mind and body for a restful night’s sleep.

📊 Enhanced Productivity: Lofi music strikes a perfect balance between stimulating and distracting.  The non-lyrical nature and repetitive loops keep you engaged without diverting your attention from the task at hand, potentially boosting  your productivity.

Cultural Influences:

Lo-fi music draws upon a wide range of musical genres, including hip hop, jazz, and electronic music for its distinctive sounds.

Why is Lo-Fi Popular?

The popularity of lo-fi music stems from its calming, nostalgic qualities.  It serves as a perfect soundtrack for studying, relaxing, or simply creating a cosy atmosphere.

So, wherever you are in the world, search for #Loufi and discover one of the genre’s great artists.

Gaslighting – Not what I Thought 💭

Elections 2024

Introduction

2024 is more than just an election year.  Perhaps this is the election year.

Globally, more voters than ever before will go to the polls, as at least 64 countries (plus the European Union)—representing approximately 49% of the world’s population—are scheduled to hold national elections, the results of which, for many, will have long-term consequences.

In an era where truth seems malleable and reality is often a point of contention, the term ‘gaslighting’ has found its way into the modern lexicon, especially within the realm of politics.  Originally coined from the classic stage play and film that depicted a husband’s psychological manipulation of his wife, gaslighting has evolved to describe a form of deception that sows seeds of doubt, making individuals question their perception, memory, or sanity.  In the political arena, this tactic takes on a grand scale, impacting not just individuals but entire societies.  It is a strategy that destabilises and disorients, leaving public opinion adrift in a sea of manufactured uncertainty.

Historical Roots of Gaslighting

Scene from Gaslight 1944

The term “gaslighting” traces its origins to the dramatic arts, first appearing in the British play “Gas Light” from the 1930s.  The narrative centres on a husband who, in an attempt to steal his wife’s fortune, manipulates her into questioning her reality and mental state by dimming the gas-powered lights in their home.  When she notices the change, he denies it, causing her to distrust her perceptions and memory.  This play was later transformed into George Cukor’s 1944 classic film “Gaslight.” (7.8 on IMDB).  The film, starring the gorgeous Ingrid Bergman and the attractive Charles Boyer, was nominated for seven Oscars, winning six, including Best Actress.  It introduces the world to an insidious type of psychological manipulation in which the victim is taught to question their sanity, usually by someone close to them.

The methodical and deceptive techniques showcased in the story provided a vivid script for understanding how manipulation works, eventually permeating into psychological literature as a term to describe similar tactics in real-life scenarios.  Over time, the use of gaslighting has extended beyond individual relationships to encompass broader applications, including political spheres where truth and trust are essential commodities.

 

Gaslighting in Today’s World

Gaslighting in today’s world has transcended its dramatic origins to become a prevalent form of psychological manipulation in various spheres of life.  This insidious tactic causes individuals to doubt the legitimacy of their memories, perceptions, and sanity, often leading to a sense of profound disorientation and psychological distress.  Its presence is not confined to personal relationships but extends into the professional realm, where bosses, family members, and other figures of authority use it to maintain control or assert dominance.

The phenomenon has also become a significant talking point in understanding emotional manipulation and abuse, as it disrupts an individual’s belief in their own experiences and can diminish their self-esteem.  Recognising gaslighting is the first step in countering its effects, with strategies including taking space from the situation and collecting evidence to reaffirm one’s reality.  Awareness and education on this topic are essential to empower those affected to respond effectively and reclaim their autonomy over their thoughts and feelings.

 

The Impact of Gaslighting on Individuals and Society

The impact of gaslighting on individuals can be deeply corrosive, with long-term psychological effects.  Victims often grapple with anxiety, depression, and a pervasive sense of confusion as their ability to trust their own thoughts and emotions is systematically undermined.

Over time, the persistent doubt sown by gaslighting can lead to a diminished sense of self-worth and a profound identity crisis.

At a societal level, gaslighting can undermine the fabric of trust that holds communities together.When used as a tactic in discussions about politics or media, it has the potential to erode public trust in institutions and facts, contributing to a post-truth society in which altered narratives obfuscate objective reality.This erosion of common agreement on fundamental truths can be harmful to democratic processes and civic involvement because it calls into question the very foundation upon which informed judgements and social consensus are founded.

To combat these adverse effects, it is crucial to foster environments where open dialogue is encouraged, and individuals can seek validation and support.  Education on the signs of gaslighting and promoting critical thinking skills are key measures in empowering people to resist manipulative tactics and restore trust in their perceptions and in the shared reality of society.

 

Recognising Gaslighting

Recognising gaslighting is the first critical step in countering its harmful effects.  

The process begins by identifying the technique as what it is – a deliberate form of emotional manipulation.  Be vigilant for common phrases that may signal gaslighting, such as dismissals of your feelings or accusations that you’re overreacting.  It’s important to document interactions that feel manipulative, as keeping a record can help you discern patterns and confront the gaslighting with evidence.

Lean on your support network for a reality check.  Friends, family, or a therapist can provide an outside perspective that counters the gaslighter’s narrative.  Establishing strong boundaries is also key; decide what behaviour you will not tolerate and stick to it.  If a conversation becomes a “crazy-making game,” it’s crucial to calmly state the facts and, if necessary, disengage to maintain your mental health.

Educating yourself and others about the signs of gaslighting can empower you to resist these tactics.  Awareness is a powerful tool that not only helps victims but also creates a culture where gaslighting is less likely to thrive.

 

Mitigating the Effects of Gaslighting

Mitigating the effects of gaslighting involves a multifaceted approach that starts with recognising and acknowledging the abuse.  Once identified, it’s essential to reaffirm your reality and trust in your perceptions.  Establishing a support system is crucial, as trusted friends, family members, or professionals can provide validation and counteract the gaslighter’s narrative.

Mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques can be incredibly effective in alleviating the anxiety and PTSD symptoms that often result from prolonged gaslighting.  Regular practice can lead to a calmer, more invigorated mental state, helping to restore balance and inner peace.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers tools to recognise manipulation and build psychological resilience.  By challenging the distorted thoughts and beliefs instilled by the gaslighter, you can begin to regain confidence in your judgement and decisions.

Remember, healing from gaslighting is a process, and being kind to yourself is vital. Allow yourself to experience and validate your emotions without judgement as you work towards recovery.

The UFC Octagon and how Dricus du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland made a Little History at UFC 297.

Dricus du Plessis left jab

The recent thrilling UFC297 match, where Dricus Du Plessis emerged as the middle-weight UFC world champion, made me wonder about an intriguing aspect of the UFC: the shape of its cage, the octagon.  It turns out this unique, eight-sided design has specific origins and reasons.

 

Etymology: The Octagon’s Ancient Roots

The word “octagon” traces its origins back to the Greek and Latin languages.  In Greek, it is derived from “ὀκτάγωνος” (oktagōnos), which comes from a combination of “ὀκτᾰ-“ (okta-), a prefix meaning ‘eight’, and “γωνία” (gōnía), meaning ‘angle’.

This Greek root, in turn, stems from “ὀκτώ” (oktṓ), which means ‘eight’, and is ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European word “*oḱtṓw”, also signifying ‘eight’.

Later, the term made its way into Latin as “octagonos”, maintaining the meaning of ‘eight-angled’.  The definition of octagon in geometry refers to a plane figure having eight angles and eight sides, which is consistent with its etymological roots.

 

The Octagon, Fighting Games, and the Birth of the UFC

Interestingly, the martial arts film industry influenced the Octagon’s design.  Jason Cusson, an art director involved in its creation, drew inspiration from the 1980 film “The Octagon,” starring Chuck Norris.  While the film itself did not feature an actual octagon-shaped fighting arena, its title and martial arts theme played a pivotal role in sparking the idea for this innovative design.

 

Inspiration from Unexpected Sources

In the early 1990s, the arcade fighting game genre was witnessing an unprecedented boom.  Titles like Mortal Kombat 2 and Super Street Fighter 2 were not just games; they were cultural phenomena.  Their success led to the birth of other iconic franchises, such as Tekken and Soul Calibre.  This era of gaming frenzy coincided with the inception of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Campbell McLaren, co-creator and executive producer of the UFC, saw a direct connection. After meeting Rorion Gracie and talking about a “War of the Worlds” competition, McLaren’s vision of a live-action Mortal Kombat game was further developed.

 

UFC1 – The OG

On November 12, 1993, UFC 1: The Beginning marked a pivotal moment in combat sports. Held at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado, this event showcased fighters from various martial arts backgrounds clashing in a one-night tournament.  The objective was clear: to determine the most effective fighting style.

 

The Octagon’s Evolution and Specifications

The final design featured an octagon-shaped cage, approximately 30 feet (9.15 metres) in diameter, offering ample space for diverse fighting styles.

The UFC chose an octagon-shaped cage to ensure the safety of its fighters.  The octagonal shape, with its hard, plastic-coated fence, prevents fighters from falling or being thrown out of the fighting area, a risk present in rings with fewer sides.

The Octagon was designed to be visually striking.  The choice of an eight-sided shape was a departure from traditional sports arenas, making it instantly recognisable and adding a unique visual element to the sport.

 

National Inspiration

Dricus du Plessis’ historic UFC triumph has risen as a symbol of optimism and pride during a time when political and governmental issues have sapped the spirit of South Africa. Much like the triumphant 2023 Rugby World Cup, his win stands as a testament to the resilience and undying spirit of the South African people.  It’s a reminder that, amidst adversity, there can be moments of unparalleled glory that unite and uplift a nation.  Dricus’s victory is not just a win in the octagon; it’s a symbolic victory for every South African, offering a much-needed respite and a reason to celebrate our collective strength and perseverance.