FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 – Keep the Cat Free – ISSUE 1685 Felix

The Student Newspaper of Imperial College London

NEWS

Health Centre may have to cut mental health services PAGE 3

COMMENT

Why do College Strikes will start from next week // Flickr/Rob Wells think fossil fuels are good for the environment? Imperial College Union to support strikes PAGE 10 NEWS College”, and “dissemi- pension value is linked of lecture notes should be Officer, said “a lecturer nate material publicising to the performance of the made available, however. who is invested in their FILM Fred Fyles the strike and UCU’s stock market. Sood stated that Union lecturing and gives the Editor-in-Chief position on the dispute.” Students at Council representatives should best teaching experience The paper was raised raised concerns over the “ensure no student is dis- to their students is not by Abhijay Sood, Ac- impact the strike would advantaged, in the short or one who is financially in- Imperial College ademic Affairs Officer have to education, par- the long run.” secure.” Stephen Naulls, Union Council largely for the Royal College of ticularly to exams and Members of Council Imperial College School voted in favour of a Science Union (RCSU), major coursework dead- also cited a number of of Medicine Students’ motion to support and seconded by a number lines. They also expressed cuts to campus services, Union (ICSMSU) Welfare of representatives across concern over potential suggesting the changes Officer, told Council “I Loveless: a the upcoming strike, four constituent unions, tuition fees lost as a result to the pension scheme don’t think anyone who triumphant which is due to start ahead of next week’s of the strikes. Sood stated was the latest in a series is sitting here as a Union this week. strike action. Members of that there were a number of cost-cutting measures. representative can contra- return for UCU have scheduled 14 of things representatives In a meeting with UCU dict the main purpose of Zvyagintsev mperial College days of escalating strike could do to mitigate the earlier this month, College a Union: to collectively Union (ICU) action over a four-week impact the strikes would PAGE 24 management conceded bargain for the betterment Council this week period, in response to a have on major coursework they could afford to con- of their members. That voted to support dispute with Universities and exams – a position tinue the defined benefit is exactly what the UCU Ithe upcoming strike UK (UUK) over pension stated in the paper. Since scheme, which would cost is doing, and I don’t SPORT action being taken by scheme changes. external invigilators are at most 10% of the Col- think anybody could sit the University and Col- Currently UUK are not part of UCU, exams lege’s operating surplus. here and genuinely vote lege Union (UCU) over planning a change to the scheduled for the strike Last year the College against that as a Union changes to the pension Universities Superan- period should not be made a total surplus of representative.” scheme. nuation Scheme (USS), affected. nearly £120 million. In total, 24 members In a secret ballot, 76% which would take it from The approach to the Students in support of Council voted for the of Council members in a defined benefit scheme, strike will depend depart- of the paper argued the paper, six voted against, attendance voted to pass in which the employer ment by department, but strikes were necessary and two abstained. a paper that called on pays in contributions up it is likely that teaching for the long-term sus- Sood told Felix: “I’m Sailing Club “elected representatives of to a salary of £55,000, missed would not be tainability of teaching. immensely pleased with take to the ICU to support the UCU to a defined contribution retaught and will be ex- Ariana Sadr-Hashemi, this result, but this is waves position in meetings with scheme, in which the amined in full. Full sets Mental Health Liberation only the start. The Union Cont. pg 3 PAGE 40 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

EDITORIAL NEWS [email protected] CONTENTS EDITORIAL 2 On standing together Imperial psychotherapy services to be potentially cut NEWS 3-5 es – Felix Fyl Edit fter six months, ed or our education. How can NEWS of the Improving Access have a knock-on effect on POLITICS 6-7 we’ve finally Fr we expect to have lec- The Felix Team to Psychological Thera- Imperial’s in-house coun- got there: a turers who are motivated Fred Fyles pies (IAPT) programme. selling service, which COMMENT 8-11 Union Council if they’re worried about Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief However the CCG is has been struggling with Asession that was actually what’s going to happen Fred Fyles undergoing further con- student demand over the • SCIENCE 12-13 exciting! This week saw when they retire? How Deputy Editor sultation with practices last few years. another meeting of Union will we attract the best Joanna Wormald Imperial College and therapists, due to the The rationale from TECH 14-15 Council, which opened and the brightest if we • Health Centre could outcry generated by the the Clinical Commis- with a long discussion can’t guarantee them a News Editors see the psychotherapy initial proposal. sioning Group is that the ARTS 17-19 about the upcoming future? When talking Joanna Wormald ICHC, which is located change would improve • services on offer cut strikes, which are set to about salaries in excess of Politics Editors in Prince’s Gardens, is one borough-wide accessi- BOOKS 23 take place later this week. £100k, the College always Avirup Banerjee by up to 60% later this of a number of practices bility – since not all GP For those of you not in say they are needed to get Divyen Vanniasegaram year. that has raised concerns surgeries currently offer FILM 24 the know – obviously the highest quality people • over the changes, which psychotherapy sessions first-time readers of Felix in – why doesn’t that Comment Editors mperial College were initially set to take – and make it easier to Alan Perfect MUSIC 25-27 – these strikes are the apply to everyone? Charlie Titmuss Health Centre effect in March. Under the assess treatment outcomes culmination of long-run- We’re facing the thin • (ICHC) is set to new system, ICHC could and ensure good clinical TV 28 ning debates around end of a short wedge. If Science Editor lose funding for see the amount of psycho- governance. pension pay for university things aren’t done now, Rosie Dutt Ipsychotherapy services therapy it can offer cut by However, clinicians at GAMES 29 workers. • later this year under new 60%. Students and staff, and by us, the future of Tech Editor ICHC have cited potential Previously, most education looks bleak. Tom Mrazek NHS plans. who make up the majority barriers to accessibility, Imperial College Health Centre could see its services cut // Imperial FOOD 30 people working at a uni- version. If you want to portant points raised in the Another important • Under current pro- of ICHC’s patient cohort, as patients may have to versity were guaranteed find out more about it, Council session, which point was raised by Arts Editors posals from the NHS along with local residents, travel further to reach their needs. patients are having to get term covering a range of TRAVEL 31 a certain amount for their then I’d recommend I’ve been pondering someone else in Council, Indira Mallik Central London Clinical may have to go elsewhere appointments. Concerns This move comes as sectioned before they can non-pharmaceutical ther- pension fund. However, speaking to some of your over for a few days. One regarding the nature of JJ Cheng Commissioning Group, to access psychotherapy have also been raised over psychiatry services in the access treatment. A recent apies, is widely used as a Adam Gellatly HANGMAN 32-33 under new plans from lecturers – I’m sure they’ll representative said that a Union. It can be easy • the body responsible for services. the potential impact that NHS are coming under report from the King’s treatment for a number of Universities UK (UUK), have a lot to say about he didn’t feel he could to forget, among all the Books Editors commissioning health Under the new propos- the loss of psychotherapy increasing pressure. Fund showed mental mental health problems, PUZZLES 34 who cite unsustainable the potential changes. support something that debates around room JJ Cheng services, primary care als, ICHC would only be services will have on the The number of patients health budgets were ex- including depression and costs, the scheme will But what came out of would cause disruption space or Bud Light, that Alice Peberdy centres across Westmin- able to offer Cognitive multi-disciplinary team seeking help for mental panding at a much slower anxiety. CBT is one of the SPORTS 37-40 be changed. As a result, • ster may see their budgets Behavioural Therapy the discussion at Council to the students we are a students’ union is, at Music Editors approach offered by health problems like rate than physical therapy most well-known forms, some estimates state that was a vote for the Union supposed to represent, its heart, a collective. It’s for psychotherapy cut at (CBT), and would have the Health Centre. This eating disorders or sub- services, prompting con- but other types include Felix Office Andy Djaba Beit Quad, Prince Consort workers could lose up to officially support the and – while it’s fair to even in the name: union. Adrian LaMoury the end of June. Psycho- to cut the psychodynamic currently enables them stance abuse problems has cerns that patients were psychodynamic psycho- Road to 60% of their pension strikes. While acknowl- feel concerned about the As a student, a represent- Henry Eshbaugh therapies would instead therapy they offer – a loss to support, in-house, hit a record high, while a receiving poorer quality therapy and Cognitive London, SW7 2BB fund, and, as a result, edging that the strikes impact it could have on ative of the student body, • be delivered through a of three days a week. This many of those with more lack of services has meant care as a result. Analytic Therapy (CAT). Tel: 020 79548072 people have been up in would cause disruption students – I think refusing and as an employee of Film Editors centralised service, as part reduction would likely complex mental health an increasing number of Psychotherapy, a broad Email: [email protected] Mikhail Demtchenko arms. The Universities – what else would be the to support the strikers Imperial College Union, I Ashley Luckyram felixonline.co.uk and College Union (UCU) point of them? – and that would cause much more think it’s vitally important @feliximperial Mark Aduol have planned 14 days of this should be minimised of a disruption to all of to stand together, as a Michael Purdy Printed by Mortons Media strike action, starting this as far as possible, Union our education. This debate collective, and encourage • Group, Boston Road, week, and then slowly es- representatives will back is not about the next few Imperial, and other UK TV Editor Horncastle, Lincolnshire Andrew Melville ICU supports UCU in upcoming strike over pensions calating before a full week the UCU in discussions weeks, or even about the universities, to go back Registered Newspaper • ISSN 1040-0711 of strike action in March. with senior management. next few years; it’s about to the negotiating table. I Games Editor That’s the summary There were a few im- the long-term future of hope you do too. Saad Ahmed NEWS resort to strike action due The move from Council to argue the proposed with the senior manage- representatives believe Copyright (c) Felix 2017 • (cont.) to the hard line taken by comes in the same week a changes would leave ment who could instruct the potential long-term Food Editors our employers.” large number of staff from staff worse off, and their representatives to impact on quality of Alice Davage Andrada Balmez must now follow through “I emphasised how the Department of Physics that the changes are return to the negotiation. teaching and job security • by supporting the UCU far the pension changes wrote to Professor James “neither necessary nor We urge students to of academics is serious Felix is recruiting! Travel Editor with more than just kind would impact on staff Stirling, Provost of Impe- well-motivated.” It urges support the staff.” enough that the students Edita Pileckyte words, both by putting security and living stand- rial, expressing their “pro- management to “stand up In a statement for should support their lec- • pressure on College to ards, and that manage- found dismay at the way Puzzles Editor for the Imperial College Felix, Alex Chippy turers as they take strike Hamish Beck resolve the dispute and in ment informed the joint in which Imperial College staff for whom you are Compton, ICU President, action on this issue.” • its communication with trade unions that they is handling the proposed responsible.” said: “Union Council A College spokes- Sports Editor students on this issue.” could afford to pay addi- changes to our pension Dr Michael McGarvey, voted overwhelmingly person told Felix: " We Imraj Singh Roddy Slorach, a tional contributions, but scheme”. The letter, which President of Imperial to support the position of appreciate students may • representative of UCU have chosen not to. We Head Photographer has been signed by nearly College UCU, told Felix: UCU in their upcoming have concerns about po- Joseph O'Connell-Danes who spoke at the Council are immensely grateful to 80 staff members – over “Imperial’s management strike, meaning ICU will tential disruption but the • meeting, told Felix “I was the Union Council for so half the academic staff are telling students that be writing to the Provost College will be open as Copy Editors very pleased to be invited overwhelmingly agreeing in the department – says massive cuts to staff and making the case where usual and departments are Alex Adler to speak on behalf of the to support us in out action, the changes are “a very pensions of up to 60% are we can to encourage working hard to ensure Ash Pattar UCU branch. I was made and hope that together shabby reward for the essential. The reality is Imperial, and universities that teaching and assess- Astrid Zong Selin Olenik very welcome, and was we can help ensure that hard-working academics quite different. Independ- across the UK, to return to ment activities continue Rhidian Thomas particularly impressed management reconsider, who have created the ent analysis has shown the negotiating table.” as normal. Any changes to We want you – yes, you! We’re looking for writers, photographers, editors, illustrators, reporters, Ezgi Ozyilkan by the recognition by all avoiding the disruption world-class reputation the basis for making these “While we will do schedules will be commu- Hari Choudhury those who contributed for which we agree they, Imperial College current- cuts is false.” what we can to minimise nicated by Departments. computer experts and grammar nerds to join our team. No experience needed – we’ll teach you Myles Lee to the discussion that the and they alone, should be ly enjoys.” He said “any disruption the impact on students, Advice for students is everything you need to know. If you’re interested, send us an email on [email protected] UCU has been forced to held responsible.” The letter goes on to students lies squarely our elected student available online." 2 3 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

NEWS [email protected] NEWS [email protected] Union to put new petition in place for members Union apologise after Russell Group respond to NEWS can be an effective way at the end of the academic calling Disabilities Officer Office for Students of drawing attention to year. It has been signed by Fred Fyles certain problems, “anyone more than 2,000 people. Editor-in-Chief with an email address Fintan O’Connor, 'Disabled Officer' NEWS or non-compliance with of higher education can sign these external Deputy President statutory regulations. institutions. By the end petitions, meaning there (Welfare), told Felix: Fred Fyles Under current plans, of 2019/20, the average A paper proposing the is no guarantee that every- “Petitions and campaigns NEWS Editor-in-Chief universities would either university is predicted to establishment of a one who has signed is a are growing in number pay 2% or 5% of “qualify- only have enough liquid Union petition system student at Imperial.” every year at Imperial, Fred Fyles ing income”, or £500,000 capital to run for 81 days. Russell Group respond passed at Council, and a new and accessible Editor-in-Chief – whichever is higher. The OfS was formed in petitions system will only to Office for Students Russell Group states that January of this year, and among other papers. “A number of help channel the energy proposals about a 2% charge would equate will receive its statutory and ideas of our members. The Union has to £5.7 million for their powers in April. As well other students' We were already thinking apologised for the fining universities. average institution – equal as financial penalties, it mperial College unions already about introducing one misprint in the to tuition fees from 615 will be able to suspend Union will start as part of our review of Leadership Elections he Russell students. The 5% charge, providers that fail to looking into creat- have petition our democracy and gov- Uh-oh // Felix Group has meanwhile, would equate comply with regulations. ing an online peti- ernance, and we’re glad 2018 material. responded to to £14.3 million – more Last December, the Ition system, following systems in that Union Council has They “represent the for the Union and those the Office for than the total annual Russell Group responded the success of a paper now thrown their weight mperial College needs of all students with represented by it, espe- TStudents’ (OfS) propos- spend on access and par- to a number of other at this week’s Union place” Less of this, more eActivities // Felix behind the idea.” Union has apolo- disabilities at Imperial, cially when the purpose als to place financial ticipation for the average proposals from the OfS, Council meeting. A number of other gised after referring whether diagnosed or was to promote the role.” penalties on universities Russell Group university. saying plans to have The paper, which proposal. later this academic year. This academic year papers were also dis- to the Disabilities not, and work to improve Fintan O’Connor, the that breach registration universities publish was proposed by Ansh A number of other There was not enough Bhatnagar told Felix: alone has seen a number cussed at Union Council. IOfficer as the ‘Disabled the experience for these Union’s Deputy President conditions. detailed information Bhatnagar, Undergraduate students’ unions already time in Council to discuss “I'm glad to see Council of popular petitions relat- As well as the petitions Officer’ in some of the students during their (Welfare), told Felix: The Russell Group – a “The proposals on staff earning above Ordinary Member for have petition systems in the finer details of what have approved the ing to topics at Imperial, paper, Council passed Leadership Elections time at Imperial”. They “We have apologised to group of 24 universities in £100,000 per annum “risk the Faculty of Natural place, including UCL and form such a petition proposal for a petitions including ones asking to papers in support of the 2018 promotional mate- work with the College representatives of our dis- the UK, including Imperial may 'affect undermining the ability of Sciences, was raised Sussex. As part of ICU’s system would take; Alex system. The vast majority expand Ethos gym, and UCU strike, as well as rial. and the Union to promote abled community, moved College London, who are institutions to compete in following a number of 2017-20 Strategy, they Chippy Compton, ICU of students do not wish to to bring Stella 4% back to ones relating to tankard The mistake occurred inclusivity and lobby for swiftly to withdraw all ‘committed to maintain- course viability an international market”. popular petitions relating have promised to “support President, will be meeting be involved in the bureau- Union bars – something policy and minuting of across the booklet outlin- increased support. offensive promotional ing the very best research and quality” High-pay at university to Imperial issues that had students to ensure their with Bhatnagar and other cracy of the Union, so a that was done at the be- ICU meetings. A paper on ing the positions students Hisham Abdel Aty, content, and will tackle – cited concerns that “the has come under increased been opened this year on voice is heard”. The paper students to discuss the petitions system that puts ginning of this term. The use of Union space was could run for, adverts the current Disabilities this mistake head on in proposed maximum mon- scrutiny this year. A other platforms. passed overwhelmingly, overall structure of the power directly into the most recent petition is moved to a future Council in Issue 1684 of Felix, Officer, told Felix: “The communication to our etary penalty [for breach In their response, they recent investigation by the The paper argued with 94% of those present system, and will return to hands of students would to stop the closure of St. meeting. and emails sent out to all Disabilities Officer mis- members. Inclusivity of conditions] does not argue that such fines could University and College that, while such petitions voting in favour of the Council with a proposal be a powerful tool.” Mary’s Swimming Pool students. The Union has print in the promotional is one of our four core represent a proportionate mean “difficult decisions Union (UCU) found that since apologised for “the material of the leadership values, and to prevent response.” would need to be made nearly half of university inappropriate and unac- elections shows a com- such errors happening Later this year, OfS about resource allocation vice-chancellors are ceptable terminology.” plete lack of either care again, we will be support- will have the power to with the potential to involved in setting their SACAs see record-breaking number of nominations The Disabilities Officer or understanding from the ing staff and officers to punish institutions that affect course viability and own pay. Alice Gast, Im- is one of eight Liberation Union about the role, and understand the activities breach registration con- quality for students.” perial’s president, is not Officer roles that students disabilities in general. Not and objectives of our ditions, including student They also raised on her own remuneration NEWS range of areas. The the nominations to told Felix: “I think it can run for in this year’s only is it offensive, but it Liberation & Community outcomes dipping below concerns that fines could committee, but is allowed previous highest number students, with increased was great to get the CUs Leadership Elections. is simply embarrassing Officers better.” an acceptable baseline affect the net liquidity to attend their meetings. Fred Fyles of nominations was 831, involvement from the involved, asking them to Editor-in-Chief which was achieved last Faculty of Medicine. The help advertise and also academic year. In total nominations process was put in their weekly emails. 935 staff members were also simplified, to reduce I think that the Union Imperial academic believed to have been detained in Nearly 2,000 nominated, including the time it took to submit would benefit greatly in nominations made support staff, tutors, and nominations. actively asking us for help this year, more than lecturers – again, the Michael Edwards, on more things, which in Iran highest number in the President of the Royal turn would strengthen the double the previous award’s five year history. College of Science Union links between CUs and NEWS n Imperial the death of Iranian-Ca- Dr Madani’s social media suicide by the Iranian “Environmental rights record. This year saw a shift (RCSU), told Felix: ICU.” academic is nadian environmentalist accounts were also sus- government, but high- are human rights, and in the strategy used to “Nick’s new grassroots The Union has targeted Fred Fyles believed to and academic Professor pended. lights increasing tensions we all have an obligation his year’s Stu- communicate the SACAs method of achieving this 1000 nominations for the Editor-in-Chief have been Kavous Seyed Emami in On Monday, Dr between the Iranian to protect them. We are dent Academic nominations process, with excellent batch of SACAs past few years, but has Adetailed in Iran for 72 police custody. Madani’s Twitter account government and environ- closely following these Choice Awards the campaign shortened to submissions is to be always fallen short of SACAs ceremony last year // ICU hours last weekend. On Sunday, Iranian MP was restored, and he mentalists, who are often cases in Iran, and urge that (SACAs) have a three week period, fol- applauded, and hopefully this target. Burstow told Dr Kaveh Madani, Dr Kaveh Madani, a Mahmous Sadeghi posted posted a tweet that dual-nationals. the work of environment Treceived the highest lowing a ‘soft launch’ at this signifies a major Felix: “The SACAs give and allows our students to Innovation, and Best a Reader at the Reader at the Centre for on Twitter that Dr Madani asked for “an end to nar- The UN this week defenders – both in Iran number of nominations the end of last term. Nick change in the way that our students the chance showcase this excellence Feedback, among others. Imperial Centre for Environmental Policy, had been one of a number row-mindedness”. While asked the Iranian and around the world – be since their inception. Burstow, Deputy Presi- Officer Trustees and staff to recognise and reward to the College.” All staff members who was made Deputy Head of of environmentalists de- some took this to mean he government to allow promoted and respected.” Imperial College dent (Education), who is engage critically with excellence among College This is the sixth cycle are nominated for an Environmental Policy, Iran’s Department of En- tailed over the weekend, had been released, other environmental activists Union, who organise responsible for the award Union volunteers.” staff. This huge number of of the SACAs. Staff can award will receive a mug, is believed to have vironment last year. There who were being held by sources say Dr Madani is to work without being the SACAs, received process, also worked Claudia Caravello, SACAs nominations re- be nominated across and shortlisted staff will been detained for 72 was confusion over his intelligence agents associ- still under surveillance. targeted. UN Environ- 1868 nominations for with constituent unions President of City and flects just how much stu- eight areas, including attend the prize ceremony hours last weekend. whereabouts throughout ated with the Islamic Rev- Professor Emami’s ment head, Erik Solheim, the awards, across a (CUs) on communicating Guilds College Union, dents value excellent staff, Best Supervision, Best in May. last weekend, following olutionary Guards Corps.. death was ruled as a issued a statement saying 4 5 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

POLITICS [email protected] POLITICS [email protected] No Olive Branch for Rojava – what happens Students need to support the strikes – here’s after the Turkish intervention in Syria? what you can do to help Politics writer Juan Rubio Gorrochategui argues that the conflict in Syria is going to become Next week the University and College Union begin their strike over changes to pensions. It’s up more complex and more violent following the Turkish intervention. to students to make sure we support them.

POLITICS based on progressive pendently in Syria, por- POLITICS of Imperial College and values, Erdoğan has traits of Abdullah ‘Apo’ Exhibition Roads. Please Juan Rubio used the once legitimate Öcalan are common in Abhijay Sood bear in mind that pickets Gorrochategui power he obtained from northern Syria. However, Lloyd James are stictly non-violent, Politics Writer the ballot box to create the one key difference Politics Writers and must adhere to a strin- a Frankenstein monster between both groups is gent set of laws. of a country, a state that while the PKK fights hile Western that combines the worst for a united Kurdistan, fter two months Write to the Provost audiences aspects of Kemalism and Rojava aspires to become of failed were being Islamism to persecute one of the federal states negotiations, The Provost, James entertained political opponents and that would be set up in a with university Stirling, is already receiv- Wby the latest Trump antics curtail freedoms. Using future, Assad free demo- Amanagement proposing ing letters from staff, the and the recent develop- the excuse of the 2016 cratic Syria. huge cuts to pensions, uni- UCU, and our Union Pres- ments in the seemingly coup attempt, Erdoğan None of this matters to versity staff will be taking ident on this issue. Help interminable process that has cracked down on civil Erdoğan. In recent dec- the only action available pile on the pressure by is Brexit, the last three Kurdistan has always been a major battleground// Flickr/Jan Sefti liberties, jailing teachers, larations, he has vowed to them: striking. The staff dropping him an email that weeks saw the beginning civil servants and journal- to expel the Kurdish ter- walkout will begin next expresses your frustration of a new phase in the ians by Saddam Hussein minorities, secularism offensive against ISIS. In ists alike, while women’s rorists from the cantons, Thursday, February 22nd, and your support for our Syrian Civil War. Now and the measures taken and green politics. These the meantime, Rojava has rights are increasingly accusing them of collabo- and will escalate over a staff members. Students ISIS has lost its territorial against this ethnicity by ideas set them apart from continued to implement threatened as the country rating with ISIS. The main four-week period. at some other universities power base and has dis- the Turkish state (which every other participant in its policies on the territo- is forced to become aim of Turkey is the estab- You might be worried have requested partial appeared as a state entity, I shall expand upon later) the war and indeed from ries it controls, including less and less secular. lishment of a puppet state about the effect this will refunds of tuition fees for it seems Syria has taken remain in collective any other Middle Eastern direct democratization, The repression against over the border, controlled have on your education. the duration of the strike, the place of Rwanda and memory as nefarious entity. It is therefore not cooperatives, the banning the Kurdish minority by military personnel and You’re right to be; strikes which you may wish to Sudan, places ravaged actions, the treatment the surprising that Rojava of honour killings and in Turkey (estimated to ruled along the lines of are disruptive. Rest consider. Urge College to by misery and death but Kurds faced by the regime soon came under attack by child marriages, manda- be around 20% of the Erdoğanist Turkey. Some- assured that this is at the support our staff and get soon left in the dustbin of of Hafez al Assad (father of the radical Islamist forces tory women quotas and population) has grown as thing similar happened in front of the minds of both Universities UK to com- permanent instability and Bashar) in Syria is almost of ISIS, which ended integration of the Arab, the government pursues Cyprus during the 70s, Union volunteers (includ- promise. A letter template chaos. It is a sad fact that universally unknown, if in total failure for the Kurdish, Assyrian and policies that silence the and 40 years later Turkish ing the authors of this UCU members demonstrating back in 2011 // Flickr/Dun.can can be found at: www.ucu. the relative lack of interest equally despicable. Imi- latter entity as the YPG, Armenian ethnicities in a Kurdish activists that are troops still occupy the article) and departmental org.uk/studentvoice. that the war generates in tating the other Ba’athist now organized into a multinational state. brave enough to raise their Northern third of the staff. In the short term, College cuts – cuts to op- ations. However, there is fantastic. Short of this, it our media is missing the dictatorships of the area, wider coalition known as The crucial position voices against it. island. In their advance we will be working to erating hours, price hikes, more that students can do. would be worth convey- “If you feel Get your parents/ big picture, the events that the Syrian state stripped Syrian Democratic Forces of Syria in the Middle These factors, through Rojava territory, minimise the impact on and failure to invest in If, like us, you feel the ing that you support their guardians to write could have far reaching the Kurds from their na- (SDF), launched a suc- East map, in the centre combined with a foreign the Turkish allied militias students’ results for exams underperforming essential staff are being treated right to strike, and that staff are implications in history. tionality, and forced them cessful counterattack that of a region desired by policy that has been de- have already carried out and major coursework services such as the Coun- unfairly, that their action while there are short term Letters to the Provost And this new phase, trig- to undergo a process of resulted in the liberation ambitious powers like scribed as neo-Ottomanist war crimes, including the that take place during selling service. This sort is more than justified, drawbacks, this action is being treated will be even more im- gered by operation Olive Arabization that amounted of the bulk of the areas Qatar, Iran and Israel, has (seeking to regain the mutilation and beheading the strike period. We will of penny-pinching (SCR and that you want to do in the long term interest of unfairly, there pactful coming from Branch, is one of them. to sheer cultural genocide. terrorized by ISIS, includ- made foreign involvement influence lost by Turkey of a young Kurdish female also be looking at ways Breakfast, anyone?), more than just send your both staff and students. If our parents/guardians, On the 20th of January, When in 2011 the Arab ing the capital of the so a common staple of the after the disbandment of fighter. It is outrageous of limiting the impact which hugely contributes #thoughtsandprayers, you recognise people on are steps you particularly if you have to the Turkish army and Spring protests reached called caliphate, Raqqa, in war. Readers with a good the Ottoman Empire a that a country that is both this will have on end-of- to Imperial’s poor student here are some concrete the picket line, make sure pay international fees. allied Syrian opposition Syria, the oppressed 2017. The relationship of knowledge of geography few years after the end a NATO member and can- year exams, such as by and staff satisfaction steps you can take. to talk to them. can take” militias invaded Efrin Kurdish minority took Rojava with the other two have probably noticed of the First World War), didate state for member- lobbying departments to ratings, is done in spite of Share this article! canton, one of the three advantage of the general main factions of the war, already that northern explain why the Turkish ship in the EU is allowed amend exam questions. a huge annual operating Talk to your friends Join us for a show of autonomous regions that unrest and seized control the islamist Free Syrian Syria shares a long border army is entering the fields to commit these atrocities. In spite of these surplus of around £100 support Help out with picket- Finally, sharing this form the Democratic of the areas where it Army (FSA) and the with a rising power of its of Rojava with fire and Western governments concerns being at the million. So whose side Explain why this action ing article, either with friends Federation of Northern formed a majority of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA, own kind, Turkey. The fury. Turkey cannot risk have already turned a forefront of the debate, could we possibly take: is taking place [Ed.: See Students will be as- in person or on social Syria, colloquially known population, as the Syrian military branch of the events that have unfolded the spread of the Rojava blind eye to the human last Tuesday the Union that of College manage- page 3 of this week’s issue, sembling with staff on Staff will be picketing media, would go a long as Rojava. To understand army was recalled to Assad regime) fluctuates in Rojava have set off all project to its Kurdish rights abuses taking place voted overwhelmingly in ment, for whom profit as well as issue 1683], the first day of action, all major entrances to way to helping spread the why, we need to go back to Damascus to fight in more from periods of conven- the alarms in Ankara, and inhabited areas, and fears in Turkey itself. Don’t support of our staff in this comes first, or of the staff and encourage them to Thursday February 22nd College from 7:30am message. This is a signifi- a time before the civil war, important fronts. The main ient alliance to full-out have awoken the anger a reactivation of the allow them to spread the dispute. While the reasons members who actually support the staff position. at 10 am, at the corner every day of strike action. cant moment for both staff when the Kurdish peoples Kurdish group throughout war. In another sign of of the Turkish dictator, Kurdistan Workers Party terror elsewhere. Write behind this decision were deliver our education? of Imperial College Road If you are able to help out and students; let’s make were being slaughtered in the war has been the the convoluted mess that Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. (PKK), a guerrilla group to your MP, demonstrate, deeply pragmatic, with The decision of the Talk to your lecturers and Exhibition Road (near even for a short amount of sure Imperial does its bit. the four countries where People Protection Units is the Syrian Civil War, It is interesting to that has been waging join organisations like the long term interests of Union is a welcome the end of the tunnel from time, whether by standing If you have any queries, they form a significant (YPG), an organization the SDF have received compare the political war against the Turkish Amnesty International students in focus, it’s no move, as it adds to the If you can ask them South Kensington station, at the picket line or assist- or would like to help out minority of the popula- which has an ideology both American (otherwise evolution of Rojava and state for decades and that that are denouncing this wonder that students em- mounting pressure on whether they are taking and Skempton). For more ing with student-organised further, please email rcsu. tion: Turkey, Iran, Iraq, that combines libertar- FSA supporting) and Turkey during the last few shares similar ideologies madness. Because in these pathise with the staff on College management to part in this action, and details see the Facebook coffee/tea runs, please [email protected] and Syria. While the ian socialism, gender Russian (main Bashar years. While Rojava has to Rojava. Indeed, while dark times, Rojava needs this matter. We too have encourage their national even encourage them event at: tiny.cc/stand- do so. If in doubt on the gassing of Kurdish civil- equality, respect for ethnic ally) air support in its moved towards a society the YPG was born inde- your help. been at the rough end of body to return to negoti- to do so, then that’d be withstaff day, head to the corner 6 7 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

COMMENT [email protected] COMMENT [email protected] Valentine’s day isn’t just about traditional We are taking way too many pictures

romance By considering the perspective of both photographers and travellers, you can find that there’s Kink Klub Queen Alexandra Dakin has some non-traditional suggestions for your Valentine’s real benefit in taking a break from our shooting-obsessed culture weekend... and picked one out at the you, who merely wants end. But what I realised is to record memories in the COMMENT energetic and fast-paced. because they know how COMMENT that a lot of people were form of pictures. Sure, candle lit dinners much you enjoy it. If that recording videos for the To clarify, my own Alexandra Dakin are romantic – it requires isn’t love I don’t know Yan Kee whole show, as if they definition of a traveller Comment Writer planning, dressing up and what is! Comment Writer are going to see those is someone who chooses choosing the best wine. Romantic and kinky amazing fireworks better travelling as a lifestyle, But suppose you get relationships are opposite on their 5-inch smart- rather than a break from o, it’s that time turned on by something sides of the same coin. ith the ad- phone screens rather than their normal life routine. of year again and a little outside the norm – They enhance one vancement with their own bare eyes. From a traveller’s per- you are looking furries, for example (you another, both contributing of smart- It made me realise that all spective, then, the main for a little bit of can look that up on your to the flourishing of your phones of us need to reflect more preference is to live in Sromance. Roses and choc- relationship. Romance Wand digital photography, on our obsession with the moment. To have a olates are seen in every keeps it caring and affec- an absurd number of photo-taking, instead of smartphone or camera shop window, the nights “Romantic tionate while the kinky pictures are taken by blindly following what standing in between your are cold, and all you really part allows you both to people every single day the crowd around us does. eye and the event occur- want are cuddles, kisses and kinky experiment and learn more – whether for Instagram, What are the benefits ring is to live in a different and… rough animalistic about each other bringing Facebook, or just for of reducing the number world, outside of the real sex. Now the question is, relationships you closer together than personal collection. of pictures taken, when one. That could mean can you have both? Can are two sides you ever were before. This New Year’s Eve, digital storage means something different for you go from holding hands Romance will always be I spent the last few hours we’re completely free to different people, but for and looking lovingly into of the same needed because everyone of 2017 patiently waiting take more? To answer this most it’s the social media each other’s eyes to then likes to receive roses for the annual fireworks question, let’s look at this world. suddenly being pinned coin. They every once in a while. display in London. The problem from different Our lives are heavily down and slapped by But for me without the fireworks only lasted 15 perspectives: those of a interconnected through your partner? When you enhance one choking, the biting and minutes, and to update my traveller, a photographer, social media, especially start looking at the more another” the scratching… well then friends and family I took and – most importantly with family and friends, extreme sides of BDSM, its all rather boring. So, one series of burst pictures – someone like me and and the boundaries the idea of romance fitting Valentine’s day doesn’t just have to be about chocolates and roses // Flickr my advice would be next between the real world into that seems less and own). Your partner may time you want to give and that of social media less likely. But let’s try pair is very strong and everything the dom had other’s door. Kinky activi- not be into it as much your partner flowers, ask have become heavily and break it down. rightfully so; if you are done to them no matter ties tend to be the opposite as you and yet is still ok them if that is what they blurred. Once we see The only well-exposed polaroid I took in York // Yan Kee Let’s go for an extreme going to have someone how aggressive was of this, being hard, with dressing up as one really want… something interesting, example: let’s take a tie you down you need to not real, and that it was our addiction to ‘share’ Now, let’s part from still prefer methods such power play relationship trust them enough not to just an act. It is there to it gives us that oxytocin “Soak it in with those two extremes and as sketching or journal where one of you takes the abuse the power you have reassure both parties that boost, stimulating that look from the perspective writing to record past dominant role (dom) and given them. This level of the sex was enjoyable on ‘good-feeling’ whenever your own eyes. of someone who takes events – when thoughts the other the submissive trust is not usually needed both sides. It lets the sub we receive a notification, pictures for the sake of are being put into it, the (sub). This kind of rela- in standard relationship feel safe and secure and like, or comment. Why Experience memories. The problem details are described so tionship can have as little dynamics, but romance allows the dom to be more not take a break from it? the moment is not taking pictures, well that if feels like you or as many boundaries as is all about trusting each affectionate and express Take a break from social nor the intention behind are time travelling when you like. For a sub dom other with your feelings a softer side. After Care media for a week, a month before taking it, but rather the process you revisit those works. pair to work they must and emotions so in a way is essentially when the or even a year and expe- of taking them – it’s so All in all, whatever the communicate all the time, the trust between a sub couple stop being rough rience the traveller’s ideal that picture” easy and quick, as if the perspective we choose, telling each other what and a dom intensifies the with each other and start of remaining within the meaning behind those all of us could gain real they like and what they romantic aspect of the being romantic. This has real world, being mindful, pictures was long gone, benefits taking a break don’t; making sure they relationship. to be done every time living in the moment, York, I took exactly seven and what’s left is a hollow, from these frantic pho- are both comfortable with Rough, kinky sex can rough kinky sex happens whichever term you’d like pictures with my polaroid digital format photo filled to-taking sessions. I hope the more experimental involve a lot of things which means the more to use. camera: I was forced to with colours and lines no next time you’re deciding stuff they are trying. but one thing that must kinky sex you have the From a photographer’s ‘try out’ the shots first one is familiar with. Let’s to let the convenience Now quite a lot of happen every single time more romantic cuddles perspective, on the using my phone camera take some time before of picture-taking get the people think that being a is ‘After Care’. When you will be having, which other hand, taking more and judge the composition taking the image: soak it in better of you, think about sub is lazy or weak, but as the sex is done, and the automatically increases pictures is good in the before carefully taking with your own eyes, expe- this article; try and expe- a matter of fact it is a very panting ceases the dom your romance level. sense that you’ll have a limited pictures. At the rience the moment before rience the moment fully brave thing to do. To give must then take on the role Romance is usually better chance of capturing end, you not only end up taking that picture. For me with your senses, look at yourself completely to of carer, kissing, stroking associated with calm, a good one. However, it’s a better photographer, but personally, it’s very hard the distinct colours of a another person needs a lot and cuddling the sub; this slow -paced dates such as actually a limitation that the memories also stick as to indulge in memories rainbow, smell the rain, of confidence and more is what is meant by After candle lit dinners, making can allow you to fully efforts and thoughts that looking at pictures taken touch the wet soil and importantly trust. The Care. After Care is a way out under the stars, and utilise your creativity. were behind those beauti- with little effort and time. listen to the sounds of the trust between a sub dom of showing the sub that leaving flowers at each Getting kinky, 15th century style // Flickr Londoners filming the NYE firework display // Yan Kee On my last day-trip to ful shots. That’s why some people forest.

8 9 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

COMMENT [email protected] COMMENT [email protected] College need to come clean with their The state of the Union: to consult or not to investments consult… The College told Divest Imperial they felt investing money into fossil fuel companies was good The Union has a history of making changes without properly consulting with students. If it is for the environment. They need to take a long, hard look at themselves. supposed to represent us, it needs to change.

COMMENT rather than a mid-sized COMMENT planning for develop- issues associated with indictment of the Union volunteers who propose no opportunity to find out endowment fund”. ment, and the 17 students rushing through such a – it shows that concerns ideas that they are not in who is running and what Divest Imperial So what about divest- Ansh Bhatnagar who were consulted in big change. However, were ignored due to the favour of. It isn’t some- platform each candidate Comment Writers ment, then? A depress- Comment Writer dedicated sessions were when students raised rushed implementation, thing that they themselves is running on. The Union ingly common misunder- all existing elected volun- their concerns about the that concerned students feel the need to do. encourages people to vote standing of divestment teers, meaning no normal network with depart- were dismissed, and that This isn’t just a one-off as soon as voting opens, t was less than a is to expect that it will hree weeks ago, a students or College staff mental staff, they were the Union did not address issue. Student consulta- which coincides with year ago that Divest bankrupt fossil fuel com- motion to create a had the opportunity to met with antagonism: the requests of staff. Most tion is something that the the start of campaigning, Imperial was formed, panies overnight. It won’t, liberation officer voice their concerns “students that opposed Union has failed to do giving an inherent ad- with previous di- and it isn’t intended to: to represent eco- before the WBRN was the implementation of time and time again. Most vantage to those who are Ivestment campaigns at after all, shares sold by Tnomically disadvantaged set in motion. Mental the Network met with “I hope next recently, the timetable for well known on campus. Imperial having withered Imperial can just as easily students was shot down health and wellbeing are departments before the the Leadership Elections Just imagine if you were away and been forgotten. be bought by a third party. at Union Council with a incredibly sensitive issues Union, which led to biases year’s sabbs was altered, with the running for a position Ten months on, our peti- 50/50 vote. The Deputy that should be handled and uncertainty from usual week’s campaigning against an existing sab- tion calling on College to President (Welfare) spoke with delicate and careful departmental staff and realise the period being removed. batical officer… With this divest from fossil fuels has “College said out vociferously against planning, yet the Union discredited the work that importance of Governance Committee new election timetable, over 1700 signatures, and the idea, arguing that “it rushed this idea to meet a had been completed”. It minutes reveal that this you would be decimated Imperial College Union they believed was setting up a role to deadline, akin to bulls in a is shameful that the Union student voice was an idea suggested simply because you voted overwhelmingly to fail” and “the relevant china shop. could not be bothered to by the Union President, weren’t given the chance divest their own invest- giving money students haven’t been Departmental staff reach staff before students and input” in order to decrease the to get your name out. ment fund. The stage was to fossil fuel consulted”. It was this last were not satisfied with took the initiative – stress on candidates, This is yet another drastic set for a discussion with point that I found ironic this either. The report said shouldn’t this have been but ended up being im- change the Union have College itself – to present companies was coming from a senior “some departments made done before the idea was importantly, it showed plemented without any made where students were our arguments and learn Union official. Time and requests for changes to even announced? Not one that the Union does not formal input from student not consulted. why College remains a net positive time again, those in power the Network that were not of these people thought to care about consulting the volunteers outside Trustee Although I have been reluctant to engage with So much for smoke-free Imperial! // Flickr/CECAR at the Union have shown possible due to the timing delay the implementation students it claims to repre- Board. While the Presi- critical of the Union in them – which took place for the climate” that they prefer to act first and progress of imple- until consultation was sent. It appears that, to the dent had good intentions this article, that’s not to last month. their reckless business With only a bit more will not change voluntari- want to do is to waste our and worry about students’ mentation”, showing that thoroughly complete, and minds of the senior Union when suggesting the say that the Union hasn’t In meetings with models, standing shoulder probing, the truth even- ly. No amount of publicity own spare time on tactics concerns later. at least someone in the all concerns addressed. officials, consultation is a idea, the new timetable consulted students at previous divestment The point is exactly what to shoulder with countless tually emerged: College stunts or toothless pledges that don’t work. This is exemplified Union understood the The report is a damning task to be given to student means that voters have all. Last year, the end of campaigns at Imperial Imperial recognised – if other public institutions in “doesn’t think it’s immoral to trim carbon emissions What we heard from most strongly by a report zero-tolerance deadlines many years ago, the we are serious about doing so. to receive funds” from will change the fact that Imperial was quite dif- from the DPW to the and the smoking ban were College claimed to prefer making a change, then Moreover, given the these companies, and, fossil fuel companies ferent. Imperial College, Trustee Board (the Union’s achieved by consulting to engage with companies our name and reputation frightening scale of when pressed, revealed are there to extract and home of the Grantham most senior committee), students through online as shareholders than to carries far more weight climate change and the that they believed giving process fossil fuels. Any Institute and funder of regarding the Wellbeing polls. But consultation publicly denounce their than any amount of shares research going on here money to fossil fuel com- serious analysis of the world-leading research in Representation Network needs to be done on all actions. Shareholder en- we might own. When a to mitigate it, is it even panies was actually a net figures pledged by fossil climate science, believes (WBRN) [Ed.: see Felix the big changesmade and gagement seeks to change university with the clout morally right for a univer- positive for the climate. fuel companies towards that we ought to be giving 1684]. The report states: stances taken by the Union companies by voting at that Imperial has takes sity like ours to be gener- There we had it, at last – renewable energy reveals our money to fossil fuel “there was not enough – after all, the sole purpose shareholder meetings: the a stance on something, ating income from fossil not that divestment was them for what they are: companies because of time to consult effectively for its existence is to rep- more shares you have, the people and industry alike fuel extraction? After all, idealistic, or financially cynical marketing ploys, climate change, not in with College staff and resent students. The DPW more your vote counts. pay attention; when 60 we already have a policy unfeasible, or any of the and nothing more. That’s spite of it.Though at pains students” and “Officer has given the green light In the environmental other universities do the preventing direct invest- other diversionary argu- how Shell, supposedly to stress that it really does Trustees were assigned to for consultation regard- movement, it predates same, it really begins to ment in tobacco, and quite ments thrown our way the industry leader in believe in climate change, lead consultation between ing the Social Mobility divestment as a tactic by turn heads. Changing the rightly too [Ed.: hardly initially. At the heart of it, sustainability (some the truth is that College is February and June, which Officer, and the Union decades, but has sadly met public’s perceptions of watertight]; perhaps Imperial College believe achievement), can double quite comfortable in the failed because of a lack of President is working with very limited success. fossil fuels is crucial if College would care to that the best way to fight their investments in clean company of those that clarity of the network’s with myself to look into We were surprised that we are to change their apply the same logic to emissions from fossil energy, while in the same don’t, and ends up funding purpose”. a petitions system on the College chose to pursue consumption habits, and other ethically questiona- fuels…is with more fossil breath invest 5 times as the damn thing anyway. The WBRN idea was Union website. These are this strategy, and our divestment is one of the ble investments? Alas, it fuels. We look forward much in risky deepwater If the choice is between first announced in January welcome developments instincts proved correct: only tactics that aims seems not. College were to College’s imminent drilling for new reserves. an honest climate-denier 2017, yet the Union felt that show a positive in an embarrassing squarely at that target. reticent to discuss tobacco proposal to cure insomnia Debates over tactics on the one hand, and it was appropriate to rush attitude to student engage- climb-down, Imperial has Removing investments at all, and (comparing the with caffeine tablets, and are one thing. Divestment College’s contorted dou- through the biggest ex- ment; I hope that next now rejected shareholder from fossil fuels is simply cases of tobacco and fossil to hearing how what the seems to us to be the best blethink on the other… pansion of the rep network year’s sabbatical officers activism, saying that “our the means; the end itself fuels) said that they “did library actually needed and easiest way to effect well, with a friend like in recent years, aiming take note and realise the influence is stronger as is to afford universities not find them similar”, was a few furnaces to change in this area, but this, who needs enemies? for implementation in importance of student one of the world’s great a chance to call on fossil though refused to explain really cool it down. we’re open to other sug- October. No College staff voice and input. research universities fuel companies to change why. Fossil fuel companies gestions; the last thing we were consulted ahead of Thinking of being an OT next year? Make sure to consult students! // Imperial College Union 10 11 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

SCIENCE [email protected] SCIENCE [email protected] Crossing the blood-brain barrier: the final frontier Work hard, play harder – how playing can improve SCIENCE the reach of gene therapy. change in their ability ing, but requires further STEM subjects This study examined were identified, with their research to ensure the Varshit Dusad adeno-associated viruses properties characterised. robustness for the proof Science Writer (a group of non-patho- The results of this study of concept. As mice were Next time you’re called out for playing video games when you’re meant to be revising, just remember that such genic viruses) for their prove useful, since they the subjects of this study, ability to potentially show the capability we it is likely that the findings games can improve your spatial reasoning skills. ene therapy improve transmission have to control movement may not be representative serves as a through the blood-brain through the blood-brain of human conditions, and means to intro- barrier, and to enhance barrier. This provides the thus the effectiveness SCIENCE be minimised. subjects. high spatial reasoning, not duce artificial specificity for brain cells. possibility of developing of the study in human When inspecting the Rest assured, not all vice-versa. Nevertheless, GDNA into cells, which can Scientists compared the novel therapies which samples needs to be Sarah Wong data, researchers discov- hope is lost for grown- it is a cheap and relatively then be transcribed and capsid features of two can target the diseases established. Furthermore, Science Writer ered that females present- ups, as adulthood training easy implementable inter- translated into proteins type of adenoviruses associated with brain and this study has only ac- ed with weaker spatial can still impact on spatial vention that may increase in order to treat various which differed by their spinal cord – such as brain counted for the challenges skills than males overall. training. Not only can the number of female and medical conditions. ability to pass through the tumours – which have not associated with crossing mperial College Conversely, after adjust- video games or Lego will male students progressing However, there remain The famed blood-brain barrier // Wikimedia blood-brain barrier, and proved an easy target due the blood-brain barrier, London is a science, ing for the frequency at help; photography, chess, into STEM subjects. Ad- many limitations for subsequently generated a to this barrier. The current but the final gene therapy technology, engineer- which the students played and origami can also boost ditionally, next time when treating medical condi- Once they reach and and, consequently, has library consisting of the strategy involves provid- might still be limited by ing, and mathematics construction games, the visual-spatial abilities! you ought to be studying tions associated with the migrate into cells, they rendered many drugs and individual parts of the ing a high dosage of the further complications I(STEM) focused universi- differences disappeared. Nonetheless, while but are side-tracked by central nervous system. unload their genetic ma- therapies ineffective for capsid structure from the therapy, but this causes such as improper dosage ty with, sadly, an uneven This implies that women it is common to assume gaming, you can claim Gene therapy works by terial. However, to reach use in the brain. A recent former virus. Using the side effects by infecting and possible side effects. male to female ratio. and men are equally good causality, it is unclear of that you are training your packaging genes into the brain the carriers must study, however, published library, they swapped out non-target cells. By im- Nonetheless, it kindles However, the imbalance at spatial reasoning on a the connection of these spatial reasoning to ease specific carriers – often cross the highly selective in Molecular Medicine, the corresponding parts proving the specificity of hope we may be able to of gender in STEM biological level. However, events – consequently, we the guilt! made from the outer shell membrane called the examined and identified in the capsid of the latter crossing the blood-brain target the brain-associated subjects is not localised males tend to have an cannot be entirely certain of viruses, and capable blood-brain barrier. This potential virus capsid virus one-by-one. The barrier, one can reduce the diseases which have for to Imperial – this trend increased interest in ac- that STEM subjects cause Will Lego make you better at chemistry? // Wikimedia of breaking into cells – barrier restricts most sub- structures which are able result of each individual dose amounts and also the so long eluded the reach can be seen across the tion-based games, thereby which are then injected stances in the blood from to cross the blood-brain swap was noted, and the cost of therapy. of medicine. globe. Whilst efforts had developing better spatial into the bloodstream. passing into the brain, barrier, thereby improving parts responsible for the The study is promis- been made to steer more skills. women into STEM, a new Given the results, the study in the U.S. may hold research group suggest- the key to such a problem. ed that schools should Connect with conservation – Imperilled Pangolins Simply put, the poten- introduce more spatial tial solution is playing reasoning training in the games! classroom to encourage SCIENCE defence mechanism, developed. A study involving 345 students to take up STEM when faced with a threat, Their scales are used undergraduate students Steve Allain is to curl up into a ball and in traditional Chinese showed that spatial skills Reflect on your experiences Science Writer to let their scales do all medicine and, once dried, are significantly higher “The group the work. But while this is it is believed they can be in students who played great if the adversary is a used to alleviate a number action, construction, or suggested Gain the Imperial Award he group of the big cat, it makes it easier of symptoms. The scales sports video games – the most trafficked for poachers to round are made of keratin – the same skills that are rel- schools should animal is one same material as our hair atively higher in STEM introduce that you may and nails – but there is no graduates. Benefits of registering and participating in the Award Tnot have even heard of, “Their defence scientific evidence that Such statistically sig- more spatial the pangolin. There are there is any benefit of nificant results are unsur- ■ You can access a personal, ■ You will develop attributes eight extant species of mechanism – their use. As a result of the prising, as STEM subjects reasoning private online portfolio highly valued by employers. allowing you to track your pangolin found across high demand of pangolin often require visualisation ■ There is nothing to lose, curling up in activities and experiences. the Old World in Africa scales, they can sell on and interpretation of training to only successful students and south-east Asia; a ball – makes the black market for over graphs, diagrams, and encourage ■ You’ll get a line on your have the outcome recorded. they relatively unas- $3,000 a kilogram. They maps. However, a high transcript for each Stream ■ The Imperial Award is suming animals, they it easy for are also traded for their A pangolin in the defensive position // Wikimedia spatial reasoning score you complete and an extra uptake of developmental, the skills are also known as scaly meat, which is a delicacy could also be explained line if you achieve the full you learn and attributes you anteaters due to the fact poachers to in some cultures. To listing – the highest level lins breed slowly meaning that as the Asian species by general intelligence. STEM subjects” Imperial Award. that they are covered in supply a growing market of international legal pro- the population takes time have declined, their In this study, standardised develop will remain with hard scales and predate catch them” in Asia, it is estimated that tection – to help combat to recover. This interna- African counterparts are test scores were used as ■ Participating will improve you forever. your writing skills, on ants and termites. up to 100,000 pangolins the illegal trade of the tional protection may be now being targeted more a proxy for intelligence. subjects. Since childhood ■ There are plenty of support helping with job and grant Pangolins essentially are captured every year animals. However, these a step forward in the right heavily. Enforcement of Furthermore, each spatial play has such an important resources available, applications. fill the same niche as them up in the millions. from across Africa and measure may have come a direction, but as with all the legislation and coop- test evaluates a different role in developing spatial including workshops, videos the anteaters of the New They are predominantly Asia, with most being little too late for the four illegal trade (such as that eration from all parties is aspect of the perception skills, informal training and your personal tutor. World, but due to their nocturnal and elusive an- shipped and sold in China Asian species which have in ivory and rhino horns), needed if we are going to of spatiality – for instance such as video games and unique scales' they are imals with poor eyesight, and Vietnam. unfortunately been deci- criminal organisations work together to prevent mental rotation of objects, construction-based toys, the most hunted and making their capture that In 2016, all eight mated by illegal poaching. always find ways around the extinction of one of and finding hidden items e.g. Lego, at a young age trafficked animal on the much easier as new meth- species of pangolin were Part of the problem stems the legislation. It has the most unusual groups in a large pattern. Thus, the could be introduced to Find out more and register online face of the planet. Their ods for their detention are given CITES Appendix I from the fact that pango- become increasingly clear of mammals. association of intelligence reduce the gender dis- imperial.ac.uk/imperial-award with STEM subjects can parities seen with STEM 12 13 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

TECH [email protected] TECH [email protected] Falcon Heavy: looking past a brilliant publicity stunt

Falcon Heavy lifted off last Tuesday, becoming the world’s most powerful rocket // Brandon Thonen The BFR is the real deal and aspires to get us to Mars. Also, I’ll eat my hat if it flies in 2019.// SpaceX

TECH for nearly five years. As Heavy had originally been small space station. Yet in played David Bowie’s mildly). In four launches, a satellite or just about for sports cars in space, so payload, does the Falcon shadow of doubt over its conference after that very estimates are given in SpaceX engineers quickly designed for. By then, what must be the maddest ‘Space Oddity’ in the one it spectacularly failed four anything else that might the Falcon Heavy will now Heavy render the above Hawthorne headquarters. test flight that featured Martian years (the con- Tom Mrazek found out, duct tape just however, Falcon Heavy display of opulence in medium through which times, creating the most be useful. Expressed in need to find a different rockets obsolete? Not After the launch of the a very important quote version rate to Earth years Tech Editor wasn’t going to do the job. was far enough in its de- human history, Elon Musk sound can’t travel. Which powerful non-nuclear FiveSixEight’s curly purpose. Despite count- quite. Especially the SLS ZUMA satellite, a piece from Musk. Commenting is approximately 1.88:1). But gluing two boosters to velopment to stick around, didn’t choose to launch a was a great idea. No, really, explosion ever registered fries, blowing up a Tesla less doubts surrounding is here to stay, its only of tech so classified on the successful launch, When it does finally take a Falcon 9 core wasn’t the and with upgraded engines space station or scientific I’m being serious. True to in the process. Roadster would have cost its actual usefulness, the purpose being to utilize it’s unclear who even the clearly intoxicated flight, the BFR will be inally. There’s only challenge SpaceX from its little brother had experiments but rather his their original purpose as The odds were against Musk only about 50,000 heavy lifter has proven spare parts from the Space purchased the launch, (though that could just be a fully reusable monster late, and then faced. Each time it the power to become a very own midnight cherry ballistic missiles, rockets the Falcon taking flight, portions of this overrated itself to be pretty capable. Shuttle in an attempt to speculation arose that the his normal self) supervil- of a ship with 150 tons there’s this rocket. seemed like we’d finally super-heavy launcher – a Tesla Roadster. With a go kaboom pretty damn so whatever was going up snack compared to the In theory, we should see it convince America that a $1 billion, taxpayer-fund- lain stated that he is now of payload capacity, Conceived in see the Falcon Heavy fly, rocket capable of launch- figurine of a man in the often, especially the first that day had to be okay over 300 million plates a compete with the likes of fragile, overpriced space- ed satellite had been lost confident “that BFR is thirty-one engines, and a F2004, Falcon Heavy was the Falcon 9 team would ing more than 50,000kg to driver’s seat. With a little time they’re launched. In with going down equally proper satellite is worth. the Delta IV Heavy or the plane wasn’t a terrible to a failure. No evidence really quite workable”. cabin comparable to that in the works before I could bring about a newer, low earth orbit. model of a Tesla Roadster fact, the only rocket to as quickly should things Incredible as it may sound, Space Launch System, but idea. pointed to SpaceX being at The BFR, to clarify, of an Airbus A380. ride a bike or reliably spell more powerful version on the dashboard and its fire this many engines at go south. Luckily, a Tesla launching a convertible in practice it dominates Impressive as it may fault, but a billion dollars is the real deal. After With the Falcon the word “rocket”. Sure, of the rocket. Back to the very own tiny passenger once was the Soviet N1 Roadster was as afforda- into space appears to have both ULA’s and NASA’s is a billion dollars (or 1.7 the powerful yet limited Heavy test flight, we’ve “It became expecting a timely release drawing board it was for in its tiny seat. All while which wasn’t particularly ble as rocket payloads been a wise and economi- (respectively) entries. “Blowing up billion Cadbury Cream stepping stone that is witnessed without a doubt from Elon Musk would the Falcon Heavy then, as increasingly the convertible’s stereo successful (to put it get, much cheaper than cal decision. The Delta IV Heavy costs Eggs if you will) and the Falcon Heavy, it is the most impressive feat be simply ludicrous, but the concept based around Crispy metaphors $435 million per launch a Tesla would even after COO Gwynne the BFR that aspires to of engineering in the past this is a bit much even the now-deprecated unclear why aside, the Falcon Heavy while the SLS is projected Shotwell and Gen. John take mankind to Mars. few decades. The fact by future-leader-of-Mars’ Falcon 9 version fell apart test flight was the perfect to swallow half a billion be worth Thompson claimed that Its acronym stands for that a hypersonic flying standards. Why did the like a Jenga tower. the world publicity stunt not only of taxpayers’ money every Falcon 9 performed none other than the “Big machine split into three world’s most ambitious Rather critically, for SpaceX, but space time it lifts off. No matter about 50,000 nominally and the public Fucking Rocket” (a refer- and then landed (well, two aerospace venture find it though, SpaceX had little needed Falcon travel as a whole. The what crunchy treat you was enraged. Due to the ence to the “Big Fucking for three on the landings so hard to do little more reason to rush with the footage of the entire convert that to, it’s just portions of secretive nature of the Gun”, a weapon from the due to an issue on one of than tape three Falcon 9 Heavy. Throughout its Heavy at all” launch has seen nearly 20 bloody gluttony. What’s mission, the fault could 90s videogame Doom), or the boosters) with fantas- rockets to each other? development, it became million views, far more worse yet, the SLS isn’t curly fries” lie with payload adapter as SpaceX’s boring legal tic precision while taking In a presentation increasingly unclear why than any other space-re- even a real rocket, but manufacturer Northrop team chose to call it – the an electric car and a sci-fi in 2011, Elon Musk the world needed the As it rolled out to lated video on YouTube. rather just a series of very, Grumman or even no one “Big Falcon Rocket”. The spacesuit to the asteroid announced the Falcon rocket at all. Its lifting Launch Complex 39A Even the most sceptical very, very, very expensive be, the Falcon Heavy at all – ZUMA could be BFR is expected to first belt is hard to take in. Heavy would fly in power, while impressive, at Cape Canaveral, the and ambivalent observers blueprints. An astronom- won’t shake up the launch just fully operational, and fly next year, with a cargo Best of all, if this is just a 2013. But come around wasn’t taking anyone to same one Apollo 11 took admit that seeing a car ical $18 billion worth of market nearly as much as we’d be none the wiser. flight to Mars expected as preface to the commercial 2013 and the world’s Mars anytime soon. In off from in 1969, the soaring through space is blueprints to be exact. the Falcon 9 did. Instead, Nevertheless, after the early as 2022. Of course, space age, we’re in for most powerful rocket fact, by 2017 the cheaper Falcon Heavy could carry just awe-inspiring. With a launch cost of just it gives SpaceX a much down that was the ZUMA these dates are to be taken one hell of a ride. seemingly became stuck Falcon 9 had nearly up to 63,800kg to low Rather disappointingly, $150 million ($90 million needed confidence boost mission, confidence was with a Big Fucking Pile being “just six months matched the 25,000kg earth orbit – the mass of this launch appears to when reused) and double after a mysterious satellite restored with the Falcon of Salt, as it is commonly away”, staying that way payload capacity Falcon 23 elephants or a single There’s now a car floating through space and it’s not as crazy as it sounds // SpaceX have saturated the market the Delta IV Heavy’s failure last month cast a Heavy and it is the press known that Musk’s 14 15 Your Union events Friday 16 February

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ARTS [email protected]

Get my good side, Van Dyck // Royal Collection Trust Van Dyck, Rubens, and Raphael from Charles I’s collection reunited Our writer is blown away by the power of the vast riches once owned by the 17th century monarch

ARTS after his decapitation, the Emmaus’ by Titian is side by side, Henrietta with flesh, draperies and and the role it played in hard-acquired objects of the work which moved Maria dressed in the latest pearls, the vivid lustres of Charles’ reign can be CHARLES I: KING AND power and wealth in his me most in the gallery. fashion of the day with the colours delighting in see in representational COLLECTOR collection were dispersed Jesus has just revealed his her white hand rustling the parting of anguished paintings such as Rubens’ around the continent. identity to two disciples the fabric of her dress; the lips or in a lover’s touch. ‘Landscape with St Now, more than three after his resurrection; he restrained attitudes of the Throughout his life George and the Dragon’, centuries later, an ambi- sits between them, half royal children in their silk Charles believed in the where the features of St tious project has reassem- of his face in shadow, and satin finery... There divine right of kings. George are none other than Where? Royal Academy bled one of the greatest and his gaze goes out to history breathes, and past This spiritual belief found those of King Charles, the When? 27th Jan – 15th April art collections in history. eternity. The body of the splendour awakens to expression in magnifi- saviour of his people. The How Much? £20; £12 Walking through rooms man on the left is thrown daze modern eyes. cent displays by court painting served to sym- Students hung with enormous back in an expression Dukes and court ladies painters such as Rubens bolically project Charles’ tapestries and painted of astonishment: the who once sat for Holbein and Mytens, which at authority and legitimacy Pauline Ronnet masterpieces – human realisation of his fellow find themselves exposed the same time served through the chivalrous Arts Writer achievements of powerful pilgrim’s true identity hits to the inquisitive looks of the king’s ambition of ideals of virtue and and marvellous beauty him with physical force visitors; the light that once creating an authoritarian, martial prowess, using and detail – it is difficult and he is filled with awe. shone in an eye, the curve God-like image of himself the allegory of St George harles I left an to imagine that such But the man on the right of someone’s nose or chin that would be looked upon slaying the dragon. astonishing ar- vast riches were brought is suddenly filled with – the flesh that once was with fearful respect. But it The exhibition contains tistic legacy as together under the pos- the instinct to venerate; – is immortalised in two was Van Dyck who served great works by prestig- one of the most session of one man, and already his hands are dimensions by a precise, his patron’s image the ious masters but what is Cknowledgeable and distin- yet, they represent only a joined in worship and his almost omniscient, stroke. best out of all the others, predominantly striking guished art patrons in the fraction of the collection. eyes downcast, his own In the same darkly lit room and whose portraits say to is their historical allure history of Europe: “the The long-gone king sense of self cast off by are miniatures, equestrian you: you are not worthy seen through Charles’ greatest amateur of paint- hangs amongst his the spiritual intensity of statuettes, precious me- of the impassive eyes reign, whose artistic ings among the princes Raphaels, Mantegnas, and the scene. dallions. which gaze past you in legacy remains to impress of the world”, according Rembrandts, remember- The most spectacular Elsewhere, the loose, assurance; the king is too us today – all the more to Rubens. He displayed ing the glorious years of rooms are those which swirling brush strokes of certain of the order of the so through Van Dyck’s little in the way of po- his ambitious past, but his host the monarch’s family Rubens and Gentileschi world, and of his place in deeply psychological litical artistry, however, belief in his own infalli- portraits, which are some cast an atmosphere of it – an expression which is portraits that bring the and the tumultuous times bility is frozen in time by of the most iconic of all baroque sensuality into not easy to forget. personality of the man so he lived in caused him to the genius of Van Dyck. British royalty. The royal the room. Enormous The power of art as vividly to the present. pay with his life. Soon ‘The Supper at couple exchanging tokens canvases hang bursting a diplomatic weapon 17 FR IDAY, 27 TH OCTOBER, 2017 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

ARTS [email protected] ARTS [email protected] Portraits of the Obamas unveiled in Washington Kehinde Wiley and Amy Sherald are the first African-American artists selected to paint the presidential portraits

ARTS former president is richly he had to dissuade Wiley Smith. Michelle Obama verdant: glossy leaves from painting him with praised Sherald’s work Indira Malik lie against a dark field a crown, saying “I had and said she was thinking Arts Editor amongst a scattering of to explain that I’ve got of the girls, particularly delicate blooms. The back- enough political problems the girls of colour, “who ground recalls the finely without you making me in years ahead will come n Monday, detailed illuminations on look like Napoleon!”. to this place and... see an portraits of medieval manuscripts. For a painting of the image of someone who the former The parallels with western first black president, no looks like them hanging American canon are no accident: the mere allusion to power on the wall of this great OPresident Barack Obama, 40 year-old New York- is needed, but there are American institution. and the former First Based artist Kehinde layers of meaning in And I know the kind of Lady Michelle Obama Wiley is best known for Wiley’s portrait: the impact that will have on were unveiled at the his large scale paintings flowers around Obama their lives because I was National Portrait Gallery of African-American detail his heritage: one of those girls, and in Washington DC. They subjects, often found on African blue lilies repre- when I think about those were painted by Kehinde the streets of Harlem, sent his Kenyan father, future generations and Wiley and Amy Sherald, in the roles of figures of the jasmine is for Hawaii generations past, I think who were selected by the power. In one painting for where Obama grew up, wow, what an incredible Obamas after interviews example, a young black and the chrysanthemum, journey we are on together Surround yourself with supportive friends // Tezuka Productions at the White House; they man is portrayed riding the official flower of in this country.” are the first ever African- a rearing horse, golden Chicago, honours the city The portraits of the American artists to paint cape swirling around where he met Michelle, Obamas will remain on Pluto: a manga come to life the presidential portraits. him in a pose lifted from and where his political display at the gallery, Wiley has depicted the 19th century painting career started. where the former presi- Obama sitting forward in Napoleon Crossing the Sherald’s painting of the dent’s likeness will join A production that is a feast for the eyes explores artificial intelligence and what it means to be human a carved wooden chair in Alps by Jacques-Louis former first lady depicts the ranks of presidential a dark, tie-less suit; he is David. her against a periwinkle portraits through the ages, frowning, deep in thought. Before the unveiling, blue field in a white gown including that of George ARTS duction, which is the cul- several to choose from and elegant movement, ed within the show itself, other problem of having The space around the Barack Obama joked that by the designer Michelle Washington. Barack Obama by Kehinde Wiley // Mark Gulezian/NPG PLUTO mination of seventy years – is the depiction of a and was left with a strong adding to the overall effect to read a translation was of sci-fi history, explores robot’s inner process by desire to press rewind to of an integrated manga a general weakness of the the question of what it is the actions of four or five see the action again. I had comic. The two-tiered play altogether: the sheer to be human. dancers around it. When the opportunity later in stage design constantly amount of action to watch Where? Barbican In 1951, Osamu Tezuka, the detective, Gesicht, the show when the same changed shape with the was, at times, a little too A pared-down Carmen falls flat at the ROH th th When? 8 - 11 Feb a cartoonist working hard acts out his usual morning action was repeated but, aid of background dancers much. Yet, it is impossible on creating light-hearted routine, dancers surround- as I was reading surtitles who continuously moved not to be in awe of how ARTS romance – discards the Carmen. First appearing iconic. Carmen and Don Olly Dove yet meaningful comic ing him convey his every at the time, missed it once white blocks and borders. Cherkaoui coordinated CARMEN Spanish exoticism that in a pink toreador outfit, José finally capture the Arts Writer strips in post-war Japan, thought with little gestures again. The surtitles were pro- the timing of everything. forms an integral part of she captures her audience passion missing earlier created the character of which, upon first glance, Which brings us on to jected within the black Robot puppeteers, Carmen. What remains instantly. She exudes and although slightly pro- Captain Atom (later to appear busy and over- the defining feature of the spaces created and on the dancers, and minor are brief glimpses of sensuality and passion, longed, the finale offers a luto, in summary, become just Atom, aka whelming. Upon further show: surtitles. Used at white borders and blocks, characters all worked Where? Royal Opera House Seville – made apparent adding much needed taste of what could have is the most vis- Astro Boy): a child-like glances, it becomes clear times synonymously with sometimes alongside seamlessly throughout the When? 6th Feb - 16th March only by Matador uniforms strokes of colour to the been a remarkable perfor- ually impressive robot working for peace. that the impeccably timed subtitles, surtitles have manga illustrations. The show and it was startling How Much? £18 - £182 and Latin frocks in oth- otherwise soulless stage. mance. play you’ve likely In 2003, Naoki Urusawa hand movements signal a similar meaning: the impression intended on to realise at the end that it erwise trite scenes. Even Despite this, Goryachova As a whole, the pro- Pnever heard of. Before and Takashi Nagasaki each of Gesicht’s thought translation of the script the audience was that of was a cast of fifteen, not Anmol Patel then, the over-confident, and her co-star Franceso duction is very stilted, seeing the show, all I worked together to write processes as they happen. is projected for the audi- reading a gigantic comic fifty. Tao Tsuchiya should Arts Writer cabaret-style exhibition Meli, playing Don José, with an obvious lack of knew was that it involved a new manga, in honour Many of the move- ence’s benefit, but do not book. And it worked. be especially praised feels brash and tawdry. present an unconvincing coherency. A string of Astro Boy, a character I of Atom’s fictional birth ments of the performers include the usual descrip- The downside to sur- for her performance as The stage, consumed by relationship sorely lacking awkwardly transitioning vaguely recalled from my date, April the 7th 2003. throughout the show tions of sounds that would titles, as frequently is the both of the lead female arrie Kosky’s a wide staircase, with in lust and sexual chemis- scenes is brought together childhood. What I now The story created was were blink-and-you’ve- be provided for deaf and case with subtitles, is the roles, something I hadn’t take on Bizet’s stunning lighting, appears try. Kristina Mkhitaryan by on off-stage voice that know is that my interest Pluto, which is now missed-it, but the one that hard of hearing audiences. opportunity for mistakes. realised until I noticed much-loved grand and alive. However, Francesco Meli and Anna Goryachova // Bill Cooper dazzles as Micaëla, Don narrates large chunks in the ethical questions passed on into the hands affected me the most was Pluto was performed Occasionally, the words one of her characters Opera, Carmen, once the initial glamour José’s other love interest, of the narrative, leaving underpinning artificial of director-choreographer a simple movement of completely in Japanese were displayed too early missing from the curtain Bis a confused mash-up of fades, the unchanging Hrusa, well known for the far. Towards the end of with her flawless voice, the audience to fill in the intelligence has grown Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. Gesicht sitting on a chair by the Bunkamura or too quickly for the call. grand opera and spirited concrete staging becomes highly acclaimed adapta- the second act, there is although is occasionally gaps. Kosky’s Carmen tenfold. Cherkaoui’s background and being pushed (by the Theatre Cocoon, a theatre audience to read but, Tsuchiya and the rest West End musical. The heartless, dreary, and tion of Carmen at Glynde- less new music to keep an awkward presence on falls short in almost all In essence, Pluto in dance and theatre blend dancers) through a white company based in Japan, given how infrequent the of the Pluto cast were director, known for his lacklustre. The audience bourne in 2015, makes his the audience engaged, and stage. respects, but those willing is a sci-fi mystery: the together in Pluto – it is frame. The simple enough which meant that the sur- mistakes were and how spectacular, and deserved wacky, quirky produc- is asked to imagine the Royal Opera debut. His our attention regretfully The last scene however, to sit through the dross world’s most powerful clearly the work of a mind movement was to signify titles were necessary, and many were possible – the far more than a mere four tions, in his pursuit of a fountain in the foreground orchestra brings life and returns to the stage. is refreshingly dramatic. are rewarded with some robots are being skilled at using movement his leaving the dressing indeed did become a part location of the projections days in London. With any break from convention and the bridge above the vigour to the edited score Anna Goryachova’s Carmen’s sumptuous moments of striking murdered, and a detective, to represent thought, room and entering the of the show. Rather than changed with every other luck, they’ll return to our – and in a bid to adopt a stairs, with no props on of Carmen. Nevertheless, full-bodied mezzo soprano gown, designed by Katrin directorial and musical who happens to be a robot emotion, and time. One dining room where his restricting the surtitles to sentence – the mistakes shores again soon. radically postmodern take stage. his brilliance can only adds edge and a sense Lea Tag, juxtaposed with talent. himself, is attempting to of the more striking uses wife awaited him. I only above or below the action, were not bad enough to on the traditionally heady Czech conductor, Jakub carry the production so of danger to her sultry the barren stage, is almost solve the case. The pro- of dance – and there are caught the end of the swift the surtitles were project- be irritating. The only 18 19 Alternative Music Society

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FELIX ISSUE 1685

BOOKS [email protected] The essential rainbow reading list Arts Editor Indira Mallik brings us on a journey of queer literature that forms her ‘rainbow reading list’, as part of LGBT History Month here in the UK.

BOOKS the arrival of Shug Avery, ness is incidental to The a glamorous singer who is Colour Purple, taking a Indira Mallik the object of Celie’s hus- backseat to the humanist Arts Editor band’s affections. Shug philosophy that Walker and Celie improbably wants to convey; this is begin an affair, marking a not the case in Maggie lengthy reading turn in both their fortunes. Nelson’s The Argonauts, list, I think, is In a story otherwise which places the com- a quintessential full of heartbreak, the plexities of queer life at part of the relationship between the its heart. Part-essay on Acoming out story of every women is a bright spark queer politics and the pa- bookish queer person. of joy. Written largely in triarchy, and part memoir, From tentative forays into the first person in the form in this magnificent book Sarah Waters’s debauched of Celie’s confessional Nelson describes the Victoriana to focused letters to God, Walker’s period in her life where study of Virginia Woolf’s her partner Harry came fabulously winding sen- out as trans and began tences, we use books to “Maggie testosterone treatment. By try and find ourselves, to examining her struggle build a roadmap of how to Nelson’s to square her identity as Christopher Isherwood’s A Single Man was made into a film in 2009 // TWC be in the world. a lesbian woman with One of the first queer writing on life Harry’s journey, Nelson ly ill, and Nelson’s writing Todd Haynes as the movie A Single Man became a books I discovered, and and death sing explores the confines of a on life and death sings on Carol, Highsmith’s arch, film of the same name in one that remains one of heteronormative society. the page. Addressed to incisive writing is win- 2009, and indeed thanks my absolute favourites on the page It is a fascinating look at Harry throughout, who ningly romantic – “happi- to Hollywood many of is Alice Walker’s The gender and sexuality and appears as the ubiquitous ness was like a green vine the best of the queer Colour Purple. Spanning in her The how little both matter in ‘you’, The Argonauts is spreading through her, canon have found critical forty years, it tells the the face of individual, an erudite, lyrical, and stretching fine tendrils, acclaim on the big screen, story of Celie, a girl Argonauts” personal attraction. Some deeply moving love letter. bearing flowers through from Annie Proulx’s married off to a man of the most powerful Hailed as a pioneer her flesh.” It tells the story short story Brokeback many years her senior, passages in the book come of queer literature, and of young shop assistant Mountain, originally pub- who is forced to live a life novel covers faith, racial later on: as Nelson falls certainly one of the first Therese, and the love that lished in the New Yorker of abuse, drudgery, and injustice, and the power pregnant after a lengthy to weave a trans narra- develops between her and quiet desperation. Celie’s of female solidarity. IVF process, Harry’s tive, few novels explore an older woman, Carol, misery is interrupted by In many ways, queer- mother becomes terminal- evolving relationships whom she encounters by “Many of the and a life in flux with chance at a department greater verve than store. The Price of Salt best of the Virginia Woolf’s Orlando is one of the rare breed (which is also incidentally of queer novels that ends queer canon considered a love letter happily. – Woolf wrote the novel Certainly there is no have found with Vita Sackville-West such comfort in reading critical acclaim in mind). Orlando follows Christopher Isherwood’s the life of an Elizabethan A Single Man in which on the big courtier born a man who George, a gay Englishman then wakes up a woman living in Los Angeles, screen” and goes on to charm her struggles with depression way through 300 years of after the death of his English history. Written partner. Isherwood’s in 1997, to Sarah Waters’s in Woolf’s characteristic prose is heart wrenchingly Fingersmith, which was gorgeous, sweeping prose, poignant in its simplicity: transposed to Korea in Orlando, quite apart from “think of two people, The Handmaiden, all the having a plot filled with living together day after way to André Aciman’s twists, is a joy to read. day... in this small space... Call Me by Your Name, Patricia Highsmith is bumping against each hearteningly, queer stories known for her sparse, other’s bodies by mistake are becoming more and detached writing as much or on purpose...in rage or more accessible. There as Woolf is known for her in love – think what deep has never been a better generous turn of phrase. though invisible tracks time to discover and fall Yet in The Price of Salt, they must leave, every- in love with LGBTQ Is a reading list essential for forging LGBTQ+ identity? // Flickr/bjpcorp the book later adapted by where, behind them!” literature. 23 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX

FILM [email protected] Loveless: Andrey Zvyagintsev gets under the skin of modern Russia Following on from the success of Leviathan, the Russian director returns with another masterful film in which a missing child serves to highlight one couple’s breakdown.

FILM LOVELESS

Dir: Andrey Zvyagintsev. Script: Olig Negin, Andrey Zvyagintsev. Starring: Maryana Spivak, Aleksey Rozin, Matvey Novikov, Marina Vasilyeva. 128 minutes Fred Fyles Editor-in-Chief

ndrey Zvyagintsev’s Loveless, his follow up Ato his 2014 Leviathan, features one of the most haunting images I’ve encountered in cinema: Shenya (Maryana Spivak) and Boris (Aleksey Rozin), a middle-class Loveless is a chilling exploration of modern Russia // Altitude couple in the throes of an ugly divorce, argue about – limited, it is this image between them. Boris, recommends she get in ubiquitous inclusion of exploration of the archi- what they should do with that lingers throughout its working in a company touch with a volunteer smartphones, for example, tecture of decay, no doubt their son Alexey (Matvey duration. Shortly after the whose religious policy organisation, who prove is – I guess – supposed to inspired by the ruin porn Novikov), a child who argument, Alexey goes means everyone there themselves to be much show us the shallowness photographic movement. neither of them really missing, last seen running is happily married, has more effective than any of modern life, but the Pointed remarks turn to wanted; as Zhenya storms from their Moscow apart- already moved on from official body, scrupulously extent to which Zvyagint- arguments turn to physical around their small, un- ment block on CCTV. Zhenya, and has a heav- combing the surrounding sev hammers home his violence, as the disparity assuming apartment, she These tower blocks ily-pregnant girlfriend. area. point reduces the impact and incompatibility of slams a door shut, reveal- break up an undulating Zhenya, meanwhile, has of the message. Boris and Zhenya comes ing the tormented face of landscape of trees and also taken on a lover, and Despite this, Zvyagint- to the fore. The couple Alexey, his face locked in snow, forming a liminal cut herself off from her “Zvyagintsev sev’s direction remains go from blaming each a silent cry of anguish. He space on the outskirts of battle-axe of a mother – a sublime, with his camera other for Alexey’s disap- has heard the whole thing. Moscow. Zvyagintsev Soviet relic who lives takes aim moving consistently, pearance to making a trip It is this impactful event manages to master the alone off a highway to albeit glacially, through to the morgue to identify that drives forward the psychology of space, and Kiev, like someone you at Russian doorways and around the body of a child, but rest of Zvyagintsev’s film, the use of architecture is might encounter in the officialdom” corners; in one impressive throughout it all there which serves as a precise just one tool in this brutal work of Svetlana Alexiev- long-shot at the start of remains an undercurrent and damning analysis of and harrowing account ich. the film, reminiscent of mutual resentment, the current state of Russia. of both the divides Just as in Leviathan, of the unnerving work negating any possibility Zvyagintsev wields his between the parents, and Zvyagintsev takes aim While the themes of Michael Haneke, we of a happy conclusion. camera like a surgeon’s the hypocrisy of modern at Russian officialdom, explored in Loveless are linger outside a school as Loveless’ name sounds knife, delicately lifting up Russian culture. with the police inspector more engaging than in children run out, before out like a warning: this is the thin skin of modern While in other films a assigned to the case Leviathan, with the main the lens picks out Alexey, not a film with a warming society and revealing missing child might serve explaining to Zhenya marital conflict playing following him dutifully message, or a beating the darkness that festers to bring couples together that there’s nothing much out against a backdrop of down the street. When heart; it is a cold abyss of underneath. in mutual anguish, in they can do about missing the Russian annexation the team are combing an a film, one that completely While Alexey’s Loveless, as the name children, when there are of Crimea, there are abandoned Soviet-era drags you under, and traps presence in the film is – by suggests, it only serves murderers and rapists to areas where the writing complex near the apart- you in its power. virtue of the plot’s design to drive more of a wedge worry about; instead, he becomes didactic. The ment, the film becomes an 24 FELIX ISSUE 1685

MUSIC [email protected] Franz Ferdinand take an unprecedented sidestep Their latest effort brings a host of sonic experimentation and a new, dancier sound from a band that no longer has anything to prove.

MUSIC central role. Elements of from a practice in tradi- ALWAYS ASCENDING disco and production from tional Ethiopian music to Philippe Zdar (of French have chord progressions house group Cassius) lend that never return to their distinct sound throughout. root note but instead con- Influence from Sparks, stantly evolve. Kapranos Artist: Franz Ferdinand. with whom Franz Ferdi- and co. found the sonic Label: Domino. Top nand recorded an album in equivalent of this in the Tracks: Always Ascending; 2015, is especially evident Shepard Tone, an aural Lazy Boy; The Academy on tracks such as ‘Lois illusion of constantly Award; Glimpse of Love. Lane’ and ‘Huck and Jim’, increasing pitch (which For Fans Of: Arctic which slickly transition you may have heard of Monkeys; The Strokes; through multiple parts, most recently for its use Sparks. 40 minutes from soaring choruses to in Christopher Nolan’s aggressively marching film Dunkirk for both the Neel Le Penru verses. Sifting through the score, and as an influence Music Writer unconventional structures on the narrative structure). on these songs, frontman The band translate this idea of ascension lways into a meandering chord Ascending “It’s a care-free progression played over might be Franz the Shepard Tone, and Ferdinand’s approach to Kapranos’ meta, punning Amost technically accom- lyrics “The shepherd plished LP to date. Their songwriting misleads so you think first studio album since that sounds you’re transcending.” In 2013, it is the most distinct this instance, Kapranos evolution of their sound like the band veers dangerously close since 2009’s Tonight. to trying too hard to Driving this is the addi- is genuinely sound clever, but, as with tion of two new members several other tracks on the to the band, Julian Corrie enjoying album, is spared by the I think I used to have a screensaver like that // Domino (who has released albums trying new plucky instrumentation as Miaoux Miaoux) on that reminds us that this is floral dress / Shows off he created with bassist that they are technically keyboards and backing things” pop, not poetry. her slender frame / Enjoys Bob Hardy. As he steps able to execute them, vocals, and Dino Bardot That said, two of the a private stroll”). In doing into these personas, he Franz Ferdinand fail on guitar and backing best tracks on the album, so, Kapranos exposes the further plays the character to nail the razor-sharp vocals. Together they take Alex Kapranos’ sardonic ‘The Academy Award’ predatory nature of such of frontman, perhaps due tightness and ability to the place of co-founder of lyrics push towards the ri- and ‘Glimpse of Love’ comments as the product to McCarthy’s absence, self-edit that made their the band, Nick McCarthy, diculous (“At the over-30s are those in which the of a search for some and ventures lower into earliest material such who left in 2016. singles night it’s bleak”, lyrics’ social commentary true emotion, a glimpse his vocal range, in which great pop-rock. At the On Always Ascending, “We’re going to America is most astute. The first, a of love: “Love is gonna he is arguably now more other extreme, the exper- Franz Ferdinand take Mc- / we’re gonna tell them gentle acoustic ballad that come as a photographer.” comfortable, with percep- imentation on this album Carthy’s replacement as about the NHS”). It’s an appears midway through Kapranos claims that tible confidence. is rarely sufficiently seen something of a fresh start ambitious and care-free the album, sees Kapranos the lyrics on this album Yet for all that is new through in terms of capti- – though that’s not to say approach to songwriting mocking self-obsessed, emerged from trying to on this album, some of vating, thought-provoking they’ve stopped sounding that sounds like the band social-media culture: write from the emotional the best songs are those or emotional lyrics. A like Franz Ferdinand. Like is genuinely enjoying “There’s a camera held in state of detailed characters in which the band’s number of the cuts on this their previous work, this trying new things. every hand / The glamour newfound adventurous- record simply feel a little is still an indie rock album That approach is evident of applause in every mind ness is contained. Equally too drawn out or unre- whose punchy basslines elsewhere. ‘Lazy Boy’, / but the Academy Award “The title track there are a few tracks markable for it to be truly and funky rhythm guitar perhaps the most typically for good times goes to which are somewhat lack- excellent. That might not parts show a clear in- Franz Ferdinand track on you.” borrows from luster, like ‘Paper Cages’, be as disappointing as tention to get listeners the record, grooves to a The lyrics to ‘Glimpse ‘Finally’ and closer sounds, though, as Always dancing. But Always 10/4 time signature. Many of Love’ juxtapose lines a practice in ‘Slow Don’t Kill Me Ascending remains a solid Ascending also features of the melodies on Always from tabloid papers’ traditional Slow’. These are not bad album that will add some some of the band’s most Ascending were written comments about female songs, but are the clearest of the most interesting inventive songwriting. using a keyboard that celebrities’ bodies over a Ethiopian representation of Always material to Franz Fer- Sonically, Corrie’s pushes the player’s fingers wonderfully retro, catchy Ascending’s biggest flaw: dinand’s excellent live meandering and spacey to unanticipated notes. synth riff (“A glimpse of music” while offering refreshing back-catalogue. keyboard parts take a The title track borrows perfect abs / In a flimsy song ideas and proving 25 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

MUSIC [email protected] MUSIC [email protected] New GoGo Penguin: A Humdrum Star is anything but Left my heart in Hackney, down in the Peach Pit MUSIC before their appearance the Guillotine’. Written MUSIC changes in the way of Manchester act Tesseract as Peach Pit’s supporting about Smith’s much better PEACH PIT tone or songwriting; you “Strid’s in particular (new album act. Fronted by William looking high school best A HUMDRUM STAR can expect to come across out in April who up), Blackaby, the band’s friend metaphorically the same break-beats and absolutely and the whole djent haunting, whispery, Elliot slitting his throat with a arching piano harmonies wavy movement as a whole, Support Artist: Blackaby. Smith-stained sound of guillotine when stealing present on earlier works. which caught me quite by Venue: Moth Club. Date: their first hit track ‘My Smith’s crushes, the track Artist: GoGo Penguin. And yet, the group feels double bass surprise (djent’s delicious, 7th February 2018. Ticket Paula’ transfixed the teen is characterised by soft, Label: Blue Note. Top fresh and progressive; y’all). Ideas and themes Price: £10. crowd and induced a mass lazy vocals and intricate Tracks: Raven, Transient new rhythmic corners are harmonics from traditional African hipster head bob across guitar licks, creating a State, Window. For Fans Of: explored, new techniques have an unreal, drumming to video game Maryna Voloshyna the entire venue. The set timeless retro pop sound Snarky Puppy, Bent Knee, are exploited, new tones music are explored on this Music Writer continued with ‘Hairstyle’ with a hint of classic rock. BADBADNOTGOOD. 51 are produced. And they all ethereal album, in great detail. and ‘Pinky’ (originally Like ‘Drop the Guillo- minutes sound fantastic. But there is a special titled ‘Punky’, before it tine’, most tracks on the The group remains timbre” kind of minimalism to fter the release was inevitably autocor- album revolve around Henry Eshbaugh ridiculously tight. The GoGo Penguin compo- of their LP rected in the lead singer’s teenage angst, the feeling Music Editor track “Transient State” sitions, wherein each Being So phone notes) being the of which was unintention- showcases their incredible absolutely wavy double instrument will pick up a Normal, the prime crowd-pleasers. ally intensified by the 80s ability to cram into the bass harmonics at the refrain and slowly nurture AVancouver-bred indie pop When the opening act prom décor on the Moth anches- pocket as a group, melding end - the timbre of which it, creating an intricate in- band Peach Pit embarked came to a close, each of Club stage. ter-based a dynamically-expressive is unreal. There’s crunchy, terplay between each band on a European tour early the Peach Pit members The self-titled infamous After the gig they posed for photos with fans // Maryna Voloshyna jazztronica drumline with a heav- compressed piano on member, and through Quite literally a wavy album cover. Nice. // Blue Note this year. With several filed out in quick suc- track ‘Peach Pit’ followed, band GoGo ily-syncopated double “Reactor” that hits just the minute variations builds dates around the country, cession and began to set sending the crowd back Greek imagery infused B. Goode’ to reenergise by guitarist Christopher MPenguin has made more bass riff and stacks of right spot. On the afore- incredibly dense harmony sharper. And so the band The new album is a fresh the glitzy nightspot in the up their equipment. A into trance which, ev- ‘Alrighty Aphrodite’, and pump up the crowd. Vanderkooy, to the con- jazztronica. The group, glitchy keyboard chords mentioned “Transient in the no-mans-land propels itself through and welcome addition to heart of Hackney, Moth short, profound, silence idently, only lifted on mellow ‘Tommy’s Party’ The boys were so versation and kiss I shared noted especially for on top, weaving from idea State”, there’s a break 4 between the performers. piece after piece, stunning the GoGo Penguin dis- Club, was their London pervaded the room as the journey back home. and ‘Private Presley’, genuine and down-to- with bassist Peter Wilton, previous efforts Man to idea with an uncanny minutes or so in, where Inclined to be mercurial, block chords relenting cography, complementing pit stop of choice. vocalist Neil Smith tuned The chewed bubble-gum after which everyone earth, staying back after I had an unforgettable Made Object and the sharpness of purpose and the (fuzzed) bassline glitches and breaks will to the pull of a driving the previous work with Opening up for them was the final string on his pop sound, as the band grew withdrawn and the show to greet, have time and I am excited to Mercury-nominated v2.0, a next-level virtuosity. takes up a single tone in a often set a bandmember bassline of squirrly drum new ideas and sounds that a three-piece, Blackaby, guitar before kicking off put it, continued with introspective. They closed a chat and take photos follow all that Peach Pit have continued to refine The band pushes polyrhythmic fashion - it off, and the old refrain fill, always coherent, do nothing but enhance rumoured to have per- the show with the album’s the lyrically blunt and the show with a rendition with fans. From a failed has in store. their unique sound on the forward with strange new sounds like they’ve drawn is ditched in favor of always with harmony as the band. See y’all for the formed live only once opening track ‘Drop groovy ‘Techno Show’, of Chuck Berry’s ‘Johnny attempt at crowd surfing latest effort. Not too much ideas. “Strid” has some influence from fellow something newer, spicier, the foremost goal. next one, everyone. An album from one of our own: 21 Steps Forward An album from the entire London jazz community MUSIC musicians as artists. up this almost rock-like MUSIC Big-band jazz backings of his present (perhaps few well-executed bars. production trick there. For one, S-Jay should WE OUT HERE The album opens “A whole scene ballad which, after a 21 STEPS FORWARD and honky-tonk piano newfound) maturity. S-Jay executes enough There are rough have drawn clearer lines with a dark, melancholy thunderous crescendo, funk are the M.O. on Though perhaps lost well to hook the listener patches, though. While between cartoon charac- rumble on piano joined captured in a breaks through into a this tape; the samples are in the verse, there is effectively, showing off a the flows are generally ters (“I have a jet”) and by bass-clarinet and flute brief moment” tranquil, slow groove. well-picked and translate a discernible sense of budding musicality with a good, there’s the occa- deeper cuts that explore Artist: Various. Label: to form a harmonically A relaxed, lazy melody quite nicely to the rhythm pathos imparted by these neat bar here and a clever sional stray syllable, his personality (“Why’d Brownswood. Top Tracks: empty, slow moving build comes in from the synth Artist: S-Jay. Label: Self- section. On top of these fat trying to work its way I do things that made my Pure Shade, Walls, The into a beautiful cacophony with an abrasiveness that released. Top Tracks: beats comes the man, the into the beat and missing. mom cry?”). As an other Balance. For Fans Of: of horns and percussion, melodies and persistent compliments the previous Time Passing, Old Times, myth, the legend himself, Though S-Jay covers example, I found the bars Jussef Kamaal, Blue Lab with heavy, impacting droning bassline, all guitar melody. Forward. For Fans Of: Wu- dropping mad bars and pretty nicely, they still of “London Town” to be Beats, Binker Moses. 56 cadences thrown in also. moving independently. Overall, this collec- Tang Clan, Will Smith. 37 flowing competently. feel extra. In general, the over-emoted; a slightly minutes This piece sets the tone for Everything is kept within tion is possibly the best minutes The production is flow (while competent) colder and more technical- the album; a mysterious the delicate touch of the description of London’s on-point throughout the is not quite to the level of ly impressive flow would Alex Montgomerie- introduction to an eclectic drummer, who dictates the jazz scene currently, Felix Music LP. Suraj is well-mic’d technicality that success hook the listener more Corcoran yet harmonious collection vibe of the song. Halfway and a marker for future Music Editors and the samples fit well in the rap game requires effectively, differentiate Jazz Man of songs. through, these standalone success. Even with great (cop “Caravan” on track - a more precise control the verse from the chorus, The next tune, ‘Pure voices are united, with variation across each 1). There are no glaring over the flow and the and have him come across Shade’ by Ezra Col- everyone moving together track, this album still ur very own errors; in general, the emoting alongside. To be as less cheesy. How much whole scene lective, draws heavily in a subdued fanfare, holds a common sound Suraj (of EEE) album (and S-Jay’s Belfast honest, S-Jay sounds a bit do you need to play up a captured in a I, a fox, am out here. Alone. Not ‘we.’ I. Me. // Brownswood on afrobeat influence, Triforce’s ‘Walls’ is in- that’s so indicative of has delivered accent) sound good. like Will Smith, fostering prolamation of love for brief moment, although without the troduced by the clean, soft this movement. ‘We Out his freshman The album gets close an outlook that prioritizes the Tate Britain? Brownswood slight acid house vibes on only three days of record- same sort of anguish in its swells of Mansur Brown’s Here’ is an announcement Oproject: 21 Steps Forward, and personal, and quite idealist positivity over a Then again, there are ARecordings’ ‘We Out Moses Boyd’s track), this ing, Shabaka Hutchings sound. Introduced by the guitar (a musician who for these musicians, a retrospective on his life effectively. Track 3 gives more ruminating perspec- always rough spots on Here’ showcases the album brings together a (musical director for the mellow tone of the keys you should seriously keep showing their ever thus far, expressing an a frank perspective of tive that interacts with the first album. S-Jay has best of London’s young, carefully curated collec- project) was able to put and soft-spoken voice of an eye on), with bass and growing presence in the ambitious and hustling S-Jay’s youth, identifying his character and actions potential; I’m looking growing jazz movement. tion of diverse sounds, a spotlight on the musi- horns, the song is set. The keys soon mimicking industry, and a statement worldview. And if I can be faults in his younger self in a more teleologically forward to the sophomore Crossing the sounds of with an underlying cians that are driving this rich, modal harmonies of after. The guitar then to let people know what quite frank, this album sur- and earnestly analyzing nuanced way. That is, he effort. hip hop, jazz, neo soul, ‘London-ness’ inherent scene, capturing perfectly the keys provide warmth comes in with an abrasive, jazz is within London’s passed my expectations. them from the perspective Don’t take the steps there bub, it’s dangerous. // S-Jay sounds cheesy sometimes. and afrobeat (and even across all of them. Within this pivotal time for the amongst the blue horn distorted melody ramping culture. 26 27 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX

TELEVISION [email protected] American Vandal: A detective mockumentary that goes beyond dick jokes American Vandal, one of Netflix’s latest offerings, has flown under the radar of many viewers, but it deserves to be watched for its smart writing, bold narrative, and excellent acting

TELEVISION as possible. A saving point for Dylan is the fact that AMERICAN VANDAL the dicks he has drawn in the past don’t match the ones from the vandalism. Even though this sounds Creators: Dan Perrault, like a stupid argument Tony Yacenda. Starring: on the surface, the show Tyler Alvarez, Griffin Gluck, – or, to be more specific, Jimmy Tatro, Camille Hyde. Peter and Sam – treats this as a serious piece of Saad Ahmed evidence that helps the Games Editor case. Throughout all the episodes, we’re treated to in-depth analysis of ith so much unusual and seemingly TV hitting dumb pieces of evidence our screens and to see how they build nowadays, towards the bigger picture. WAmerican Vandal will No investigation is probably fly under a lot perfect, and Peter and Sam of radars due to its lack of hit several roadblocks and big names and its ‘mocku- dead ends on their way mentary’ label. I am here to find out the truth. But to convince you that this for every hypothesis and show is, without a doubt, piece of evidence that’s Who drew those dicks? // Netflix a masterpiece and well investigated, we find out worth a place on the top where it is typically used documentary affecting the back into his old antics, gation proceeds forward of your watchlist. as a backdrop for other lives of the creators and venting his frustration and in both the most serious Essentially, this show “We see plotlines. those around them. wondering whether it’d be and ludicrous ways, you’ll revolves around a single Another thing unique This show is even able easier to just be the delin- find yourself invested in drawn out dick joke. The the social about this documentary to convey a message to quent everyone assumes everyone’s lives, appreci- crime centred on this is that it is ‘filmed’ by its viewers if you read he already is. show is all the teachers’ dynamics of students of the school. between the lines. High It’s not just the quality cars at a high school the school, This adds an extra layer of school is ultimately a tur- and production level of “The fact that being spray painted with complexity as the students bulent and uncertain time the show which is so dicks. A troublemaking instead of it are investigating their own for many. A lot of people high, but also the skill and all the footage student, Dylan Maxwell, teachers and their fellow have their futures written performance of the actors. is accused and expelled, being used as peers. In a more realistic off, solely based on what Even though most are is ‘filmed’ by solely based on his past depiction to previous a teacher marks down as relatively small-scale or antics. Two students from a backdrop” shows in the past, we see well as what the people unknown, they are all able students adds the same high school, how the documentary around may think of to give very powerful and a layer of Peter and Sam, begin a leads to repercussions in them. Even though it may believable performances. documentary not too long more and more about the real world as, amongst seem like a lot of effort One highlight for me was complexity to after to find out the truth the high school and the other things, a teacher gets to prove the innocence when Dylan’s girlfriend of what really happened. people. We see the social fired and a relationship is of an already morally was being grilled on the plot” As this show somewhat dynamics of school, broken up. Peter and Sam dubious student, it raises where exactly she was parodies other crime doc- how the teachers are indulge in a lot of shady the question of whether during the vandalism. She umentaries like Serial and looked at from the eyes journalism practises like we really can or deserve says no lines while being ating all the big and small Making a Murderer, this of the students and other sharing private conver- to just write people off so questioned but the way moments the show has to show could have easily teachers, and what dirty sations and messages, as easily. A truly heartening the actress’ expressions offer. At the end of the been a dumb comedy, secrets people have been well as secretly recording moment in the series change and her eyes well day, it provides an earnest making fun of the situa- hiding. This makes the conversations. To the is when Dylan tries to up is comparable to any and emotional look at tion and the documentary high school environment show’s credit, we see turn over a new leaf and emotionally-intense scene high school through the format. Instead, the show feel more involved and them get called out on a become a model student. in Hollywood today. eyes of someone written embraces its roots and relevant in a unique way, lot of their actions and But once he hears what American Vandal is off as a joke. goes out of its way to be as in stark contrast from directions multiple times. his teacher and his peers exceptionally intense and American Vandal is professional and serious other forms of media It’s interesting to see a think of him, he descends addictive. As the investi- available on Netflix now. 28 FELIX ISSUE 1685

GAMES [email protected] Visual novels – A unique form of storytelling An examination of an argulably less popular genre of gaming but one eqaully as entertaining as the others.

GAMES there are two different mini-games or gameplay terms that are used, nar- aspects they have usually Saad Ahmed ratology and ludology. serve to add to the plot Games Editor The narratology approach as opposed to standing states that games are alongside it. However, fundamentally another some visual novels few years ago, medium of narrative and have a more ludological you wouldn’t storytelling, in a similar approach as well. have been able fashion to novels and There are some visual to find more films, and should therefore novels which have more Athan one or two games on be approached in such classic video game Steam catergorised under a fashion. The ludology elements such as those the ‘visual novel’ format. approach, however, of RPG games. You get In recent years however, states that games are to control the characters their popularity has been fundamentally interactive in the story and can get growing; now there are a systems and any story involved in sequnces number of visual novels they’re trying to tell is of requiring fine hand-eye that are considered secondary importance to coordination. At the end mainstream. In spite of the gameplay itself. of the day, however, while Your choices: beat up or beat up a lot // Telltale Games that, visual novels are visual novels should largely dismissed by some technically be considered games, translated and solving with Professor directions and endings members of the gaming “As the market games, there will always dubbed, to help cater to Layton. These types of are a lot of work and are community as not being be people who will argue this niche market. As the visual novels are usually usually left for games ‘real’ games and having and popularity against this and pick market and popularity of more appealing to the which are also heavy little value as games. something like Call of these games grew, so did casual audience and are on gameplay and length Before we can discuss of these Duty over Phoenix Wright. their variety and accessi- the ones that, at the end to really get a fulfilling visual novels and why games grew, One could ask how bility. of the day, are the most experience. Having said dismissing them is wrong, visual novels became so They grew to encom- mainstream. In fact, these that, the choices you make we need to answer one so did their popular in the first place. pass more than just dating particular games are in most visual novels feel question: are visual When they started out, simulators and began more than just interactive impactful in the moment novels really games? This variety and they were a bit more overlapping with quite novels with pretty pictures and if nothing else, get question is one which niche; they were predom- a few genres. It’s gotten and nice music: they are the player personally has infuriated several accessibility” inantly popular in Japan to the point where even damn awesome games in invested at that time. At people and has been a and mostly consisted western developers are their own right. the end of the day, you can source of heated debate. of ‘dating simulators’. also joining the market What’s the real selling always get emotionally To get a clear answer to From these definitions, People made their own and making their own point of visual novels? invested in the story and this question, it’ll help it is obvious to see visual translations and imported visual novels. Telltale As the name might cry your eyes out at select to introduce some game novels fall into the nar- them online where the Games are an especially imply, they are just very designer lingo we can ratological approach to demand for these types popular studio, having good at telling stories. In play around with. video games. They are, of games grew from other produced several critically fact, you could consider “Cross-genre To describe video at the end of day, novels players around the world. acclaimed series like The them the middle ground games from a more with art, music, and a The developers then made Walking Dead. Even some between reading a book visual novels academic perspective, text heavy narrative. Any more versions of these indie studios are getting in or watching a movie and contain other on the action with recent using VR or roleplaying hits like Dream Daddy: to experience a story aspects of A Dad Dating Simulator yourself. Visual novels and Doki Doki Literature can act as ‘choose’ your games” Club. own adventure games, A large reason for where you control the their popularity boom characters and can choose moments. and success is the fact which direction you want Ultimately, visual that visual novels are the story to go. Granted, novels are a genre unlike very flexible. While they this is arguably limited, any other in that they are are a genre in and of as for all intents and focused on storytelling themselves, they can also purposes, you can only but with a different pres- overlap with other types really stick to the the story entation and interaction of games with regards and direction specified by than what you’d get from to story or gameplay. the developers (something a book or film. Just make Cross-genre visual novels players of Telltale games sure you can tolerate contain other aspects of are often frustrated by). reading: if not, you might games such as dramatic But in their defence, as well stick to shooting survival horror with The programming stories down enemy soldiers. Objection! // Capcom Walking Dead and puzzle which can take multiple 29 Union Page Friday 16 February

Information Sessions Student Volunteering Week 2018 If you’re standing for a position in The Leadership Elections 2018 or Student Volunteering Week kicks off on Monday and we’re taking the thinking about it, there is a series of information sessions being planned time to celebrate all Imperial students who do good throughout the to help you prepare your campaign, write a manifesto, find out how year! SVW18 is a national celebration of volunteering, run by students’ Imperial College Union is run, and the part each role plays. unions up and down the country.

Information sessions run from Monday 19 - Friday 23 February. From Monday 19 - Sunday 25 February, we’ll be recognising all the hard The sessions will be interactive and vary according to the role, so check work our volunteers do across the Union, encouraging others to get imperialcollegeunion.org/elections for the schedule and make an effort involved, and having discussions on how Volunteering should be run. to attend the ones relevant to you. Candidates are also asked to attend There may be free ice cream involved! a briefing during the week of Monday 26 February. For a list of all the activities and events you can get involved in during Nominations close midnight, 25 February. Stand for a position now at Student Volunteering Week, visit imperialcollegeunion.org/svw. imperialcollegeunion.org/elections.

Got your ticket yet? Under Pressure 2018

Book your ticket now and witness the action when Imperial Medics do The Under Pressure campaign is back with loads of stress busting activities battle with Imperial College London in the 16th instalment of VarsityFest. and events to help everyone take a load off. Check out our calendar of events This year’s rivalry comprises 14 sports with Netball and Kabbadi as the from Monday 26 February - Friday 2 March. headline and showcase events respectively. Stress is unavoidable, but there are ways to manage it. This campaign The first big event will be Water Polo at Ethos on Friday 23 February, aims to give you strategies to cope during periods of heightened pressure. followed by Hockey at Harlington on Wednesday 28 February. Saturday 3 March at Heston will be massive, with a full day of fixtures. Come and find us at the JCR on South Kensington Campus 12:00 –14:00 throughout the week. We have events running every day so take a break Between games, there’ll be live entertainment, face painting and food and relax! Go to imperialcollegeunion.org/under-pressure to find out stalls. Book now at imperialcollegeunion.org/varsityfest. more.

imperialcollegeunion.org FELIX ISSUE 1685

FOOD [email protected] Temple of Seitan: The ultimate vegan fried chicken?

FOOD next to a butchery, the she held up, and the sea The bun too was im- small fast food-esque of heads would all turn pressive, soft with slight Chloe Foo establishment often has towards her in hopeful sweetness like brioche, Food Writer lines of people queuing excitement. complementing the out the door. The no frills After what seemed like ‘chicken’ well. The fries menu is based around a tormentous time waiting were standard (but good) f you haven’t heard their signature fried (be patient McDonald’s and a generous portion, of Temple of Seitan, chicken which constitutes frequenters!), my name skinny and crunchy with let me give you a of seitan – a gluten, wheat was finally hollered. And just the lightest pinch of rundown. Vegan fried based protein source that there it was – a vegan salt. Needless to say, the Ichicken. has a meaty texture and burger that truly lives burger was savoured and The cries of outrage accommodates whatever up to its rep. One bite gone within minutes and I in response to the word flavours are introduced to in and I was taken. The left Hackney feeling very ‘vegan’ that aligns to the it. A couple of sides and chicken was the most much fulfilled considering reaction towards the word off-menu dessert items are realistic mock meat I’ve my wearing and hazardous ‘feminism’ is to be ad- also offered. had with a texture vaguely journey there through the dressed in another article. I got the Spicy Temple miserable English rain. For now, it is sufficient to Burger – a steal at £6 or This place is a must try say that in my opinion, make it a meal with a side “One bite for vegans that are looking the myths that veganism of fries and a cola as I did in and I was to explore the various immediately equates to for an additional £2. culinary indulgences Almost looks like real chicken // Chloe Foo healthy, expensive and With the tantalizing taken” that modern plant-based impossible, are just that – smell of fried food in the technology can offer, for various restaurants have – blessedly, a second myths. air, the American diner-in- curious meat-eaters and already introduced vegan store has opened up its With a current rating spired store was crowded resembling that of cheap especially sceptics. Plant- versions of foods such doors in Camden – hailed of 4.6 from 617 reviews with people ordering food childhood nuggets. The based foods need not be as pizza, Bolognese, fish Temple of Camden, with on Google, this Hack- and waiting for it to be myriad of flavours were dubbed as ‘just salad’ and chips, and now, fried the same offerings plus ney-based vegan takeout prepared. Every so often strong, salty with a spicy – you can easily enjoy chicken! new beef-inspired burgers place is undoubtedly a the cashier would call out kick and did not shy away the same foods you ex- on the menu. I suppose well-regarded and popular a name that corresponded from the label ‘junk food’ perienced as a meat-eater Note: Hackney is far it’s about time for another one. Ironically located to the brown paper bag in the best possible way. as a vegan or vegetarian; from Central London indulgence!

Eat Tokyo: Budget-friendly Japanese Delights

FOOD the Holborn restaurant so food - you are initially My favourite comes with far. The Hammersmith struck by the liveliness of chicken teriyaki, salmon, Alice Davage and Notting Hill branch- the entrance, filled with sushi, rice and salad, Food Editor es are probably more eager customers waiting which somehow, they conveniently located for for a table and sushi being also make taste amazing. Imperial students if you expertly crafted behind Although I haven’t tried it ’ve been meaning to are keen to give the food a the counter to your right. myself, I’ve been told that rave about this small try for yourselves, which With the exception of the the Tokyo Dragon is, and chain that boasts au- you really should, go on, ornate wooden booths quote, “life-changing”- thentic Japanese food treat yourself. placed in the first room quite an endorsement. For Ifor a while, but my degree After ducking under that you come across, the this dish, sushi is arranged has unfortunately been the precariously low décor within the maze of in a row with a prawn distracting me. Although banner hanging above the following rooms is con- mimicking the head of the Eat Tokyo has locations front entrance - who said siderably more basic, but dragon. It certainly looks throughout London and wasabi was the most dan- no matter, you are here for impressive. Japan, I have only visited gerous aspect of Japanese the food. What’s more, Eat My first experience of Tokyo is surprisingly Eat Tokyo’s menu was affordable. You can easily simply overwhelming. dine out here for under Upon opening the no- a tenner (as long as you vella-sized booklet filled steer clear of the drinks). with enticing glossy Fans of the katsu curry pictures, I started to panic will rejoice; you can order at the prospect of making a massive, and I mean a decision. If you are as massive, portion to share indecisive as me, I would for only £9. Meaning, you recommend a bento box, can eat out in London for which is essentially a under a fiver – miracles do Artily-arranged sushimi with miso soup // Alice Davage few mini meals in one. happen. Even the soy sauce pot is cute// Alice Davage 31 FR IDAY, 16 th FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

TRAVEL [email protected] TRAVEL [email protected] for later, we set off at couldn’t help but be of us left our bags and 6am, getting an hour’s tempted to summit Monte continued climbing up. It Further adventures on the toughest trail in Europe head start on the Belgian Cinto – not strictly a part was well worth the extra paratroopers. It was a very of the GR20 trail but an climbing! The views from miserable ascent: although additional 2-hour excur- the summit (2706m) were Our last issue featured the story of a group of geologists who completed GR20, the toughest trail in Europe. This we thought the rain would sion that our guidebook truly spectacular, and we stop fairly promptly, it recommended to reach the couldn’t help thinking week Georgios Chatzitheoklitos shares more of their unforgettable experiences and the challenges they faced taunted us all the way up, highest peak in Corsica. that this would be the best making the rock slippery moment of the expedition. whilst on the trip. and harder to climb. Fog We left our mark on the descended, obscuring our We left our summit by signing the view to only ten metres, book at the top as ‘RSM TRAVEL shortly after, the Refuge pollution we could see the and, at the maximum mark on the miners 2017’ and shouting de Carozzu, our accom- most stars we had ever height of 2607 metres, the RSM chant at the tops Georgios modation for the night. seen, and we caught a full we were cold and lost the summit by of our voices. We were on Chatzitheoklitos On arrival to the refuge, moon rising between the feeling in our hands, even signing the top of the world! Travel Writer we proceeded to finish the peaks we were about to with all our layers on. By the time we’d cognac bottle Georgios climb. The day involved At times, we doubted book at the re-joined the GR20 for had been carrying some technical climbs, whether we should be the descent, the Belgian Day One: Stage 1A with him. One of the and a large fraction of the hiking in these conditions top as ‘RSM paratroopers had caught French hikers promptly 860 metre ascent involved but just before 11am we up, but proved to be rather n the first day commented “Euh, you climbing and scrambling reached the shoulder of miners 2017’ unimpressively slow and we began early, English people with your as well as big rock slabs Monte Cinto – the highest and shouting caused traffic jams on waking up at cognac…” Upon speaking and chains that we used point on the GR20 trail. the otherwise quiet route 5:15am. Kindly to the other trekkers, we to hoist ourselves up. We We sheltered from the the RSM chant down. So much for them Odriven to our starting point were somewhat horrified made good time on the wind for a quick break, walking around topless in a small town named to hear about a painful way up, stopping only disappointed that the at the tops of in camp and showing off Calenzana by our host journey over the top of the when we came across a clouds were obscuring the their muscles, which made from the night before, we mountain involving many couple of British hikers beautiful view that we’d our voices. We our boys feel insecure… were nervous but eager to chains and scrambles, who told us excitedly that been promised. However, were on top of set off. We were all very and were relieved we’d there was signal where we had a stroke of luck: Further adventures silent during that drive, chosen the lower route on they were stood. Glad The most beautiful team photo // Georgios Chatzitheoklitos just before we were about the world! contemplating what lay this occasion. for a break, we took the to start the descent, the In the next article: ahead of us. 2712m of pure joy! // Georgios Chatzitheoklitos opportunity to tell our The descent was just as group of hikers that had Day Five: Stage 4 clouds suddenly opened the members split up, Setting off at 6:45am, Day Three: Stage 3 families all was well steep, if not steeper, than ignored the warnings and up, and the scenery was Unfortunately, Max and the reason behind we quickly climbed up, freezing mountain air Day Two: Stage 2B excitement of crossing a before plodding onwards the ascent – hard on our headed out anyway. But We were very disap- even more spectacular was too cold from the Diane’s heavy rucksack is reaching our first peak at washed over him. It was rather bouncy suspension On day three, the to the top. Here, for the knees and slow moving. shortly after about 80 pointed to wake up to yet than we’d hoped! As the wet ascent, so he decided revealed! So stay tuned. 10am. Our spirits were our first evening on the After a luxurious lie-in, bridge was soon mitigated guardian of the refuge told first time, we met a hiker But with the entire day military personnel poured more rain that morning sun came out, Georgios, to start the descent to high, and we thought we trail, and we were treated we awoke to the ringing by a sudden and steep us a storm was imminent walking in the opposite being only 6km in total, into the showers, which but, with a good forecast Diane, Carla, and Harry the refuge whilst the rest were in for an easy day. to a stunning sunset, over- of our alarms at 6:30am. climb over a bouldery path and recommended that direction, from south to we were at the refuge tremendously increased But with 1550 metres looking the small village After the girls had finally through the forest. After we had a 6am start for north, and eagerly asked before midday and had the time it took the girls of ascent, the next part we’d left behind earlier got a grip on how to we passed a seemingly the hike to Ascu Stagnu. him how his legs were as all afternoon and evening to brush their teeth. We of the stage ramped up that morning. disassemble their tent, endless stream of Germans So we packed up in the he was nearing the end to get to know our fellow discovered that they were the incline, and several and we had dealt with the as we were climbing the dark and set off with our of his GR20 experience. hikers from all over Belgian paratroopers sections of scrambling complex task of hunting final hill, suddenly we head-torches. The 5am His reply was rather Europe. The storm we’d hiking in the Northern followed, with infrequent down Georgios, whose saw a helipad jutting off alarms were worth it, discouraging: “Fucked, been warned about hit in GR20 as part of their assistance from chains. “The 5am porridge decided to take the mountainside and, as due to minimal light absolutely fucked!” the evening, just as we physical training. Upon arriving at our all morning to cook, we were heading to bed, so second peak, the D’Ortu alarms were were ready for the set-off, we opted for a dry night in Di U Piobbu refuge was in only half an hour later a refuge dormitory. sight, and it proceeded to worth it, as, than planned. Having pre- ”We had a taunt us for the next hour due to minimal viously tackled a day of Day Four: Rest day stroke of luck: as we contoured our way relentless climbing, Max around the edge of the light, we could selected a low-level route When we woke up at just before we valley towards it. From for day two not to exert 5am, we were disappoint- the distance, the refuge see the most ourselves too much for ed to discover that there were about to appeared to sit impossibly the gruelling days ahead. was another storm due on the mountainside – as stars we had The route wound its way and it wouldn’t be wise to descend, the though perpetually sliding ever seen, and through the forest to the hike that day. Given that clouds opened into the valley far below. valley floor, where we this stage was the one in Everything we needed we caught were to ford what we’d which seven hikers were up, and the was on offer. Once we’d read was a raging torrent. killed in a thunderstorm had a bitingly cold shower a full moon It turned out to be a dry in 2015, we respected the scenery was followed by a hearty river bed, with the trail mountains and stayed at dinner of mushroom soup rising between having not seen rain in Ascu Stagnu for another even more and lentils, we felt more the peaks we over four months. day, resting our legs. A spectacular than ready to sleep. That After lunch, we began military medical vehicle is everyone except Harry, were about to the climb up a stony arrived in the evening than we’d who felt the need to stand trail which frequently and, at first, we wondered vigilant, wearing nothing climb” opened up onto ledges whether something had hoped!“ but his underwear as the with stunning views. The Signal in Corsica? Surely not… // Georgios Chatzitheoklitos happened to the small Carla and Granite // Georgios Chatzitheoklitos 32 33 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 – Fake News! – ISSUE 17 FELIX ISSUE 17

HANGMAN [email protected] Hangman Student stumbles upon huge pile of College money HANGMAN student, was lost in the incident, and found the thank the student who re- Blackett building when money – which totalled turned this money safely Negafelix she stumbled upon a pile £13.2 million – belonged to us, who will receive a Editor-in-Chief of £50 notes, stacked in to College. £10 Amazon voucher as a piles in a cupboard. She Thibalt told Hangman: reward.” told campus security, “I was trying to find my One student Hangman Over £13 million was who investigated the way to one of my lectures, spoke to seemed surprised found in a broom when I stumbled upon this by the find: “I always cupboard in Blackett room filled with money. thought the College “The College I knew a lot of Imperial were saying they had no by a Computing students were fucking money available to fund fresher. said the money minted, but this seemed a things like pensions, bit odd, so I got in touch or increasing the space may go toward with security and they available for counselling, tudents were left student dealt with it from there.” so to have this much surprised this Andrew Yates, the just lying around seems week, after an housing, or College’s Vice Provost very strange. I’m sure Dosh, cash, dollar, wonga // Wikimedia Imperial under- (Where’s the Wonga) told no matter what happens, Sgraduate found a large a new coffee Hangman: “Ah, yes, that’s however, the College will would go to: “well, we’re College Union have also pile of money belonging where that all went. We’d use this money sensibly not quite sure what we been asking for the funds to Imperial College machine for been wondering for quite a and responsibly, investing might spend it on yet. A for a new desk, and we MISLEADING London stashed away in the Faculty while, and – to tell you the back into the student body. group of students have put need new coffee beans a broom closet. truth – it was beginning to I trust them.” forward suggestions for here in the Blue Cube Imogen Thibalt, a Building” get a little embarrassing. Yates was evasive more affordable student Building… we’ll let you first-year Computing The College would like to about where the money housing, but Imperial know what we decide.”

Are curly fries the most extraordinary thing about Imperial? // Imperial/YouTube Imperial advertisement slammed as “incredibly GEMINI CANCER LEO VIRGO misleading ARIES TAURUS This week you’re the This week you’re This week you’re Union This week you’re loving This week you’ve made it This week you don’t Felix Editor, and you’re the Deputy President Council, and you manage the rainy weather, which halfway through the year! turn up to labs, since you HANGMAN described by the ASA as College are instilling false Hangman spoke to this advert are fictitious. where they found so many desperately trying to (Education), and the to get something done. means nobody can see Summer never seemed presume they’re cancelled ‘painting a misleading expectations of glamour Larry Opal, the College’s Any similarity to actual students looking happy at teach yourself Persian record number of SACA Finally. Go you! your tears further away. in the strike. Turns out Negafelix picture of what it was in their applicants, who Vice Provost (Ministry persons, events, or places Imperial – I’ve been here to work out what’s nominations means your demonstrator isn’t Editor-in-Chief like to study at Imperial’. will only realise how of Truth), about the ASA is unintentional.” three years and never seen happened to the Imperial purchasing mugs has part of UCU. You get a They have recommended soul-emptying Imperial is decision: “naturally we’re Students have gener- that.” academic arrested in Iran. bankrupted the Union. third. that Imperial remove the when it’s too late. I mean, disappointed by the rec- ally agreed with the ASA Another student Everyone now hates you. The ‘A Day in the video as soon as possible. what other reason would ommendation made by decision. One student thought the College had Life of Imperial’ The two-minute long the ASA, but we want to Hangman spoke to felt used CGI to make the video was slammed video shows an ‘average’ make it clear: advertising campus seem more attrac- day at Imperial, in a series “Studying at is meant to be aspiration- tive: “how else could they as a misleading of well-choreographed Imperial is al, and we never meant to “Imperial said have made Blackett look representation of shots around the South imply that this video was the video was like in inviting place to Imperial. Kensington campus. It crushing. Why anything other than our study, rather than a place ends with the message dream of what the College meant to be where I regularly consider mperial College “the extraordinary every else would could look like in the whether or not I have the London has come day” future. Why else would ‘aspirational’ will to go on living?” under fire from the Julia Kirby, Director of people be so there be so few students asked Matthew Harding, LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES Advertising Stand- the ASA, told Hangman: obsessed with in so many of the shots? and not a a third-year physicist, Iards Authority (ASA) “The advert released by Once we ship them all off “Green screen, innit.” realistic this week, after one of Imperial College London curly fries?” to White City we’ll have Harding went on to argue This week you get This week you hope This week you’re on This week you’re looking This week you decide This week you’re the their promotional videos was one of the least rep- the campus to ourselves.” depiction of the video had missed out referred to senior staff nominating yourself a health kick. You forward for the Union to take some time to Horoscope Writer, and was labelled ‘mislead- resentative promotional The College has on the most important after someone calls the for a sabbatical supplement your Union petition system to get appreciate the little things you’re not paid enough ing’. videos we’ve seen for a there be for Imperial informed Hangman that campus” aspects of College life: Valentine’s Day poem position distracts from burrito with sweet potato up and running. Boaty in life a bit more. You’re for this shit. Here, have a The video, ‘A Day higher education institu- students to be so obsessed they intend to place an “where the fuck were the you wrote them ‘creepy your terminal lack of fries. McBoatface is gonna an insufferable wanker. filler one. in the Life of Imperial’, tion. By making Imperial about curly fries all the addendum at the end of shots of curly fries?” af’. personality! make a comeback. which was published at seem like a fun and ex- time. It’s really fucking the video reading “the that the advert was mis- the end of last term, was citing place to study, the sad.” persons and events in leading: “I don’t know 34 35 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX

PUZZLES [email protected]

       FUCWIT 1 Nonogram of Ketamine 257  2 Q 198     3 Puzzle Snuggle Cuddle 188 Couple
 4 TioUdin 181
 5 OK 155    10 Abelian Grapes 103 
 16 Straight outta Skempton 59  21 Snails 29 
 22 Konmai 28 28 Maxiane 8    
 Send in your solutions to fsudoku@   imperial.ac.uk before midday Wednes- day!    

 Points Available



Crossword 4   Sudoku 2   
Slitehrlink 4

Chess 6 Nonogram 4    
 Total 20 



  Across Down  


1. Shade of meaning (6) 1. Tyro (6) 

   4. Not so fast (6) 2. Element from “yellow” (7)    8. Eye shield (5) 3. Slice a joint (5) 
 9. Food dispensary (7) 5. Leaking (anag.) (7)   10. Link (7) 6. Edible mollusc (5)
 
    11. Awry (5) 7. Fame (6)



 12. Cheese to be baked (9) 9. Boat with two hulls (9)     17. Carver (5) 13. Watch carefully (7)    19. Malicious retaliation (7) 14. Trig ratio (7) 21. Abbreviate (7) 15. Entertained (6)    22. Requirements (5) 16. River with a side (6)    23. Quiet, modest and well­ be- 18. To assault (5)  haved (6) 20. Meeting place (5)     24. Soldier on watch (6)                             
                                                                   
         
                                                                            Chess     White to move first in both problems.    Forced checkmate in 2 moves for the   top problem and 3 for the bottom.                 Nonogram      Fill in neighbouring cells in each rox/        column to make blocks. Each block is         separated by one or more empty cells.            The numbers indicate the ordered     lengths of the blocks to appear in that      row/column.                             Solutions     
    

              
    
  
      
            
        
  
                            
               
         
   
   
           
    

36 FELIX ISSUE 1685

SPORTS [email protected] IC Squash storms World Championships The squash team head to Manchester for the World Championships in a day of excellent high-class sporting drama

SPORTS showed her ambitions rallies, knowing that the they witnessed the drama to retain her title with a 37-year old struggled unfold in two all-Egyptian Patrick Brandl clear 3/0 against Nouran with age and injuries. finals. David Newman Gohar. Tesnie Evans from ElShorbagy threatened Men’s First team Wales, who dispatched to march through to the England’s number one Semi-Finals, but Matthew “IC Squash’s Laura Massaro in the dug deep and with C Squash took the second round, faced massive support on home No1 Pamela train up North and Nour ElTayeb. Despite soil as well as the odd stormed the Quarter- the crowd getting behind rowdy chant from the IC Hathway got Finals and Finals of her, she lost her tightly gang (“Matthew’s on fire, the chance for Ithe World Championship contested Quarter-Final. ElShorbagy’s terrified”) held in Manchester While the majority of the he won the 3rd game. a catch up with – nothing short of high- IC Squash players asked However, ElShorbagy class squash drama. for pictures and auto- regrouped, won the 4th her old friends IC Squash was greeted graphs with the players, game and denied Matthew by the MC as “the rowdy IC squash’s No 1 Pamela a famous comeback. and former crowd in the back,” at the Hathway, a former Unfortunately we weren’t rivals” start of Quarter-Finals German national player, able to catch both of them day, immediately charac- got the chance for a catch for selfies as we had to terising our presence at the up with her old friends and storm off to the station in The women’s final event. We were treated to former rivals, now at the order to catch the last train saw the top-seeded a sublime performance very top of the women’s back to London – it turned players Nour ElSherbini from the ‘French General’ international rankings. out to be late anyway. and Raneem ElWelily Former Squash World Champion Gregory Gaultier with Gregory Gaultier, who The day ended with IC Squash returned to compete for the most IC Squash members after his Quarter Final // IC Squash saw off Paul ‘Superman’ England’s No1 Nick Mat- rainy Manchester for the prestigious title in squash. Coll from New Zealand thew’s last appearance at Finals. While most con- The reigning Champion Marwan overcame Ali The atmosphere was in a dominant 3/0 win. a World Championship. tented themselves with ElSherbini had played a Farag in the Semi-Finals palpably tense and Man- Overcoming our British He faced the tournament the front wall view, four testing five-gamer with in a tight encounter that chester Central was now in reserve, we pleaded for favourite – and arguably lucky members enjoyed Nour ElTayeb the day went the full distance, the throes of high drama. and secured a post-match the best player over the the best seats in the house, before the finals, while which should have At 3-6 down, Mohamed group picture with the past twelve months – flanked by the players’ Raneem ElWelily had drained his tank for the increased the pace and, former World Champion. Mohamed ElShorbagy. coaches, partners, and dropped just two games final, whereas Mohamed with accurate length The women’s draw The ‘Beast from Alex- parents. With England’s in the whole tournament. dropped only one game to and relentless hitting, was dominated by the andria’ got off to a better former World No 1 James Surprisingly, ElSherbini Nick Matthew on his way forced Marwan into Egyptians; number one start and forced Matthew ‘Jimbo’ Willstrop sat started as if she were com- to the final and was the making errors. Mohamed seed Nour ElSherbini into long and testing two rows behind them, pletely fresh legged and bookies’ favourite. regained his concentration stormed off to a one game The match started while Marwan seemed to lead. With former World with high octane rallies, lose faith. Having drawn No 1 Karim Darwish and Mohamed played level, he then pulled away in her corner, ElWelily with better accuracy, to clinch the game and introduced subtle holds in finishing the rallies in trophy for the first time. her swing and managed style. At 2-0 down to After the prize giving to stop ElSherbini’s his brother in the World ceremony, we were able movement. ElSherbini Championship final, to take selfies with the could find no answer to El- Marwan gave everything finalists and even with Welily’s error-free squash he had left, producing Nick Matthew, whom we and ElWelily deservedly mega-rallies and shot of had missed on the day of won the match and was the month contenders. the Quarters. Overall, IC crowned World Champion Marwan managed to get Squash was treated to two for the first time. the large crowd behind highly spectacular finals The men’s final saw two him, which frenetically and thoroughly enjoyed brothers, Mohamed and celebrated every rally he the trips to Manchester. Marwan ElShorbagy, go won. He took the third Tempted to see world head to head for the first and fourth game to wipe class squash or try squash time in a championship out Mohamed’s lead. The out? Get in contact with final, with their parents deciding game saw the IC Squash (or drop us an both in the crowd. Both momentum swing back email squash@imperial. Selfie game strong: Members of IC Squash with World Champion Raneem ElWelily, ElShorbagys are based in and forth and the audience ac.uk) and give it a go! English legend Nick Matthew, Runner-Up Marwan ElShorbagy and World Champion Bristol, occasionally com- were treated to a match Mohamed ElShorbagy (from left top to right bottom) // IC Squash peting at BUCS events. fully worth every penny. 37 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX FELIX ISSUE 1685

SPORTS [email protected] SPORTS [email protected] 1st team unable to finish ICURFC 2s take the city

SPORTS scored – 0-5 to Imperial. to anyway). The pack poaching target for the by Imperial proved to be included Tom Johnston This was the strong mauled the ball over the first XV as he sliced impenetrable and, a quick making a fine break only Nick Ustaran- start that we needed. line and Ali Zaboronsky, through the defence to bag turnover ball – beautiful not to have the pace to Anderegg However, RUMS came playing in the second row, the first try of the match. structured play interlink- finish it off (he later attrib- ICURFC Press Officer back fighting and were nabbed his first try of the Several minutes after the ing forwards and backs uted this lack of pace to able to score after a couple game. Amin added the restart, a penalty awarded – sent Vice-Captain Ifan his un-aerodynamic-like of missed tackles, making extras, meaning we were deep in the opposition 22 Dafydd over the white- lid which is now suspect- the score 5-5. RUMS con- now drawing 15-15. allowed for an exquisite wash for two fine tries ed missing). Luckily for 28 25 tinued to attack and made Back defending in our back’s move straight off putting him in contention him Ifan (who clearly has RUMS 1st Imperial a line break from a scrum own half, we were caught the training paddock to for hat-trick avoidance. some pace) was there in team 1st team in our 22, scoring under offside and RUMS scored send Andy Lumb over for With the points racking up support to cross over for V the posts. We were now an easy penalty. Another a meat pie. A similar try in quick succession and his third of the day, how 12-5 down. massive lineout maul was scored just minutes the bonus point already he didn’t get man of the Fortunately, Amin from our forwards led to later, with Andy making achieved, concentration match and is not writing he Imperial 1st Omarouayache had been Ali scoring another try. real use of that caterpil- dipped ever so slightly, this report right now I team travelled watching the Six Nations 18-20 to Imperial. I can lar warm-up to squirm evidenced by the fact that will never know. With to north London over the weekend and had only conclude that Ali’s over for his hat-trick ‘Questions Beckman?’ Fraser adding the extras, last Wednesday been inspired by Jonny talents are wasted playing avoidance. However, Los managed to sneak over the match was coming to Tto take on UCL’s silly Sexton’s drop goal against at number eight. RUMS Banditos did not roll over. in the corner after a move a close. Late on, Sam Ha medics, RUMS. We were France. Using the skills were awarded multiple A strong restart, played fresh out of Ethos on a made an appearance on to there for revenge, after he had acquired from penalties from people The 1st team in action against RUMS // ICURFC The lads were victorious (ponchos not pictured) // ICURFC deep into the Imperial Tuesday morning came to the pitch, although due to losing earlier in the year Harry Allingham’s ‘free complaining to the referee 22, was taken up by fruition. the absolute dominance to RUMS by just three lessons’ on kicking, Amin when decisions went gave Duffy some false sin binned after an ac- was nothing we could SPORTS ith ponchos and a late City team (Los our very own Matthieu Halftime came and of the Imperial side the points. The match started slotted one over himself. against us, and this killed confidence, and would cumulation of penalties. do to stop them scoring. packed, Banditos). An early game Jalibert (Gustave Roux went with a number of match was called off with lots of kicking, and Unfortunately, we gave a lot of the momentum he foolishly later shave RUMS came close to They made good use of Jack Fraser sombreros against this side had de Bezieux) who sent a substitutions, including early, leaving Sam des- both teams were trying to away a penalty in our half we had in the match. half his head whilst scoring on a number of their greater numbers and Imperial 2nd XV worn, and proven to be too much beautiful kick over the Michael Rudman, who perate for some action. play for territory. Quick and RUMS capitalised, RUMS scored another Fiesta Dashing, wrongly occasions, but our defence scored from an overlap out Wmoustaches attempted, for them to handle, as the halfway line and straight impressed with his After some fine dashing, hands from Oliver Duffy making the score 15-8, penalty and went ahead believing he could pull off held strong. The clock wide. RUMS kicked the the boys made their way match was postponed – into touch – too bad he snaky runs followed by he made what can only allowed Josh Pope to just before half time. by one point. Duffy and the half-mullet-Skrillex- went red and RUMS were conversion to make the to their fixture. Fortress most likely due to their had already travelled ten questionable offloads. be described as the most make a break down the The second half was Pope once again linked up hairstyle he now has. in possession of the ball final score 28-25. Another 50 0 Harlington was the fear of facing another 59 metres outside of the 22 However, snaky run of dominant tackle ever wing and exert some just as tense as the first. nicely down the wing, and Imperial defended hard inside our 22. This was three-point loss. Luckily, Imperial City Uni setting for yet another – 0 loss at the hands of the and had lost Imperial the day was awarded to made… on a wall. Fine attacking pressure on Our forwards were some beautiful offloads for the last ten minutes the last play of the game. Fiesta Dash was exactly 2nd XV V 1st XV league game for the undefeated Imperial side. a dangerous attacking Captain Jack Wheaton form. All in all, an excel- RUMS. From a scrum dominant and made lots allowed Duffy to score. of the game, and RUMS We defended desperately what the team needed to mighty Imperial Los Nonetheless, the game opportunity. He was who left a trail of bodies lent outing for the 2nd XV on their five-metre line, of yards by mauling the The adulation he received were relentless in attack. as RUMS spread the ball mend their broken hearts. Dos Fifteenos. The boys kicked off, and, with subsequently sent for a not dissimilar to that of a with a 50 – 0 win to keep Will Aynsley picked, ran ball from lineouts (when from his teammates after Poor discipline lead to from touchline to touch- So close, yet so far; Sylvia were greeted with perfect several strong carries, Head Injury Assessment. runway in Amsterdam to their undefeated streak ten metres sideways, and the referee allowed us scoring unfortunately easy-target Nathan being line, but in the end, there remains in hibernation. conditions: a premature fresher Sorrell Cowen Nevertheless, the strong score beneath the sticks. going. Sylvia was sung, warm-up from the ref proved why he is a prime defensive work displayed Other notable moments and fiestas were dashed. Immortals send Cambridge into the relegation zone

SPORTS with a big turnout for this yardage and leaving ton brought about a surge capitalised on this with pressure increased, the PHOENIX game after nearly losing the Cambridge defence of vigour and determina- the O-line led by Dan “4 Pythons fumbled the ball Francisco Costa the last face-off against stunned on many offen- tion to defend the runway more years 1 less groin” into the end zone for a Imperial’s arts magazine returns! Immortals Publicity Officer the Cambridge Pythons with hail and snow. As Grumberg paving the way late quarter touchdown due to an injury-stricken the hail carried on so did for Ben to score another by Harry “stop winning team. All players were “The game Ben “no daddy issues” touchdown. MVPs I’m running out rested and hungry for a O’Brien making plays all As the offense powered of bant” Lawrence. Harry We are interested in: • Poetry 20 0 second victory against had a slow the way from our 20-yard through the fourth quarter then capitalized on this Imperial Cambridge the Pythons after such a start, with line to the Pythons end so did the defence. The defensive play by scoring • Prose Immortals Pythons close call last time the two zone (plays which landed Python’s offense crumbled the two-point conversion V teams met. both offenses him the offensive MVP under the pressure from with the offense on the • Photography The game had a slow for the game). He sure our defensive line with same drive. Executions start with both offenses taking heavy picked a good game to Deji “0 trainings, 1 girl- such as this landed Harry • Fine arts he Imperial taking heavy penalties and invite his girlfriend to friend, 4 sacs” Adeboye his 7th Overall MVP of Immortals making unforced errors, penalties and come down and watch. making great plays against the season. • And more... capitalized on while both defences made With this drive putting the their quarter back. The Become Immortal their new-found sure to keep the other making errors” Immortals 6-0 up, hope Immortals defence also today and come play Tmomentum by punishing team humble. There were for a Pythons victory was saw stellar plays all game American Football for a tired Cambridge team to several close calls for withering away. As the from Ben “new phone the best university team If you’re interested, please email [email protected] a 20-0 defeat, and sending the Immortals in the first sive plays. quarter continued, another who dis” Retter who in London. Contact them into the relegation three quarters of play with As the Immortals brilliant drive by the impressed coaches on his Immortals at american. zone. running back Song “more headed into the fourth offense left the immortals first game appearance, [email protected] The Imperial Immortals fumbles than MVPs” quarter with the game tied at 1st and goal against the landing him the defensive came out looking strong Zhai making incredible up at 0-0, mother Harling- Pythons. The immortals MVP. As the defensive 38 39 FR IDAY, 16 TH FEBRUARY, 2018 FELIX

SPORTS [email protected] Imperial College Sailing Club take on the BUCS South- Central Qualifiers The IC Blue team make it through to the finals, in a closely-contested series of races on the choppy waters of Spinnaker Lake

SPORTS daubed on their war paint in the respective colours Krystal Law (despite the judgement ICSC Commodore of the other universities present) and prepared to sail to victory. The wind .30am, 3rd conditions were initially February: The shifty, with postponement alarm went off, and twelve 5sleepy Imperial sailors “The tense crammed into a minibus for the journey to the atmosphere BUCS South-Central regional qualifiers held was at Spinnaker Lake, exacerbated Southampton. Three hours later, 20 teams began the by teams battle to determine who would progress through sizing up the to the national finals. With only the top four opposition” teams qualifying straight through – and the teams in 5th-7th going to the next in every region due to the Imperial Blue and Imperial White pose for a team photo // ICSC heat (playoffs) –, the com- lack of wind. However, petition was fierce, and poor weather did not deter regionals in the snow! ventured out to spoons everyone had lost at least Oliver who capsized the tense atmosphere was the tenacious race com- Imperial Blue finished the but followed it up by… two races. (again), dropping his exacerbated by each team mittee, who managed to day with five wins out of settling down to work. crew in the drink, but sizing up their opposition. get through 54 races in the six, and Imperial White Such was Cobi’s dedi- valiantly remained bone Armed with stage rain. Special mention to won one out of five. cation to work that he “Races began dry himself. make up, the Imperial the teams in the Northern True to the Imperial cracked out his laptop to IC Blue (Helms: Joe Blue and White teams region who had to face work ethic, the teams work during the day whilst swiftly in cut Burgin, Gabriel Ing, Felix waiting for the next races! Crowther; Crews: Calvin Shoutout to the 1st year down sails, Chan, Caroline Boule, Biomedical Engineering with the wind Krystal Law) successfully lecturer who set a maths won 14 out of 16 races question hard enough to forecasted and qualified in first place stump the Aero tutors… with the lowest overall 8.30am: Races began to build points. Congratulations to swiftly in cut down sails, the other teams that also with the wind forecasted throughout qualified: Southampton to build throughout the the day” Red, Southampton Green day. The determination and Oxford Blue. We wish of the race committee them all the best of luck paid off as 106 races were Congratulations to IC at the finals, to be held in completed, bringing the White (Helms: Oliver Glasgow over the Easter total up to 160. The wind Kidd, Cobi Allen, Toby holidays. Huge thanks to was incredibly shifty but Freeland; Crews: Ariane race officers Ella Stoggall everyone gritted their de Saint Victor, Michal and Martin Smethers, teeth and grimly continued Wojnowski, Marta Nunes their team of Solent-Uni- on. As the teams racked de Abreu) who sailed versity volunteers and up multiple wins, they extremely well in a the umpires for running a began the calculations to difficult region, ending great event. Thanks also determine whether or not with seven wins from 16 goes to Southampton’s they would qualify. The and just missed out on a Peter Ballantine who gra- Joe Burgin and Calvin Chan working hard to help Imperial Blue achieve a first place tension began to build place for playoffs. Special ciously hosted our teams finish. // ICSC upon the discovery that commendation goes to for the weekend. 40