POETRY SHORT STORIES ART YOU ARE ZEITGEIST
Writing is a way of expressing one’s
innermost feelings, and poetry is
possibly the most sincere written form
of human emotion. Read and treasure
the poetry you’ll find in these pages.
Short stories are brief, but effective
and powerful simultaneously, just
as Shakespeare once wrote: “brevity
is the soul of wit.” Peruse these
selections with an open mind.
The visual arts can be appreciated
not only for aesthetical purposes,
but also, for the feelings that
paintings and drawings can instill in
the life of a person.
A collective of thoughts, opinions, and
ideals… anyone can be a part of
Zeitgeist!
ZEITGEIST
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.1
What is Zeitgeist?
The word "Zeitgeist" can be
defined as the collective
thoughts and ideals of a
group of people in a given
time and space.
"Zeitgeist" is an electronic
literary magazine that
includes original work by the
students at Academia del
Perpetuo Socorro. The
pieces range from the visual
arts, such as painting and
drawing, to prose, poetry,
and written works from a
variety of genres.
The objective is to provide
the students of APS with a
culturally enriching
experience where they can
express their thoughts,
opinions, and perspectives
on the topics that they are
passionate about, while
providing others with a
glimpse of their creative
potential.
Academia del Perpetuo Socorro
is not affiliated with any of the
opinions expressed in this
publication.
VOLUME 1 - 2017-2018
Academia del Perpetuo Socorro
704 Jose Martí Street
Miramar, Puerto Rico 00907
Cover Art by Isabelle Cabán (12)
p.2
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Letter From
the Editor
To all members of the APS community…
When faced with seemingly impossible
challenges, some may opt to give up or rescind from
persevering in their efforts. However, in the face of
adversity, it is vital to view difficulties as possibilities
or opportunities to grow, learn, and find happiness.
This issue of Zeitgeist aims to portray the
remarkable feat of creating art amid unfavorable
circumstances. After a catastrophic natural
phenomenon, we have been able to foster culture and
successfully publish this literary magazine. Despite the
obstacles in our path, we should remain hopeful and
remind ourselves that these difficulties will not impede
our capacity for self-fulfillment. Join us as we attempt
to define ourselves and express our thoughts,
opinions, and perspectives creatively. Each piece is an
implicit representation of the act of finding
opportunity in adversity. I assure you that there will be
either a poem, a short story, an essay, or an artistic
piece, that will appeal to you.
- Alejandra
Eternally Grateful...
The members of Zeitgeist Literary Magazine have worked
ardously to publish this first edition. I would like to thank everyone
who helped me successfully share this creative project with the
student body and make my vision for Zeitgeist a reality, especially:
Cecilia Thon - Assistant Editor (12)
Harold Peón - Secretary (10)
María Elena Álvarez - Curator (11)
María Freyre - Designer (11)
Isabelle Cabán - Designer (12)
Coral Silva - Photographer (12)
Daniela Lugo - Treasurer (12)
Lillian Florián (12)
Isabella Bobonis (12)
Mía Nevarez (7)
Fabiola Rosales (7)
Alexandra Díaz (12)
Claudia Figueroa (9)
María F. Villavicencio (7)
Rocío A. Solá Pardo (7)
………………………………
Mrs. Mari Vega (Moderator)
Mrs. Mayra Colón
Mrs. Enid Pereira
Mr. José M. Leavitt
Mr. Jesús Ortiz
I encourage students who wish to share their passions and
interests creatively to submit their work!
Sincerely,
Alejandra Quintana,
Founder and Editor-In-Chief
of Zeitgeist Literary Magazine
Given the current situation of Puerto Rico, printed copies of this first edition will be available for the Launch Day.
Remember to attend the Open Mic activity, which will be held in recess today!
Zeitgeist encourages students from any grade that are passionate about cultural and artistic endeavors to join the club or contribute to
the magazine!
Visit the website for more information:
zeitgeistlitmag.com
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.3
HIGHLIGHTS
Poetry Stories Essays
I. flowers p. 4
II. untitled p. 4
Chess on the Battlefield p. 5
Horizons p. 6
Untitled p. 7
Andante p. 7
Ripples p. 8
A Silent Resistance p. 9
Becoming One p. 10
Perspectives p. 11
Inv. Leg. of H.M. p. 12
Essay about Carlos p. 13
HGTTG p. 14
Wand. Shopper p. 15
You are Zeitgeist
Beautiful Quotes p. 17
“Savage” Quotes p. 18
Lit. Puzzle p. 19
Lit. Horoscopes p. 20
Zeitgeist Recommends…
Films p. 21
Music p. 22
Books p. 24
Gallery of Quotes
"While thought exists, words are alive and literature becomes an escape, not from, but into living."
-Cyril Connolly
“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and
that which cannot remain silent.”
- Victor Hugo
“The books transported her into new worlds and
introduced her to amazing people who lived
exciting lives. She went on olden-day sailing
ships with Joseph Conrad. She went to Africa
with Ernest Hemingway and to India with
Rudyard Kipling. She travelled all over the world
while sitting in her little room in an English
village.”
― Roald Dahl, Matilda
p.4
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
POETRY
I. flowers*
You melted away in my arms,
formed out of nothingness.
or maybe small talk conversations.
you grew so gracefully and beautifully.
oh, how i loved you so.
gardens full of beautiful flowers reminded me of
you.
almost in slow motion, the beauty in them began
to deteriorate.
slowly and slowly,
it all went unnoticed, until the flowers no longer
grew.
dry patches of dirt covered your once beautiful
garden.
what had become of this once colorful paradise?
all a girl like me can do is mourn,
mourn the blooming flowers
that reminded me of you.
-a.s
Art by Isabelle Cabán (12)
II. untitled*
You who made me believe i was the epitome of
beauty,
one who spread graceful feelings such as love,
warmth.
a gentle being whose mind was untouched,
tainted of pain, but untouched nonetheless.
whatever i touched would become gold and
those who heard my voice couldn't help but fall
in love with such wonder.
fascinating, you would say.
nothing could compare…
until it did.
everything looked the same to you; the damaged
became the things you found special.
i was no longer what you considered sacred,
because sacred was your normal; your words
lacked meaning, and
the actions behind them would drip, fade, cease
to exist…
gone.
-a.s
Art by Fabiola
Rosales (7)
*The scarce use of capitalization has remained intact as intented
by the author.
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.5
POETRY
Chess On the Battlefield
Your fate is unwritten,
as a game of chess.
Practice and practice, yet
the result, you can’t guess.
No matter your experience,
and confidence and patience,
the victor could be anyone:
it’s unpredictable... shapeless.
The unexpected shall happen;
be ready to fight back at it!
What’s unfair will succeed,
defeating it, that’s your deed!
Aren’t you the ruler of your kingdom?
The savior of our hope?
Don’t you make your own decision,
row your own boat?
To the front lines then, leader!
‘Cause if fate’s a blank page,
fight for the pen!
And when your ink runs out,
fight yet again!
- Claudia Figueroa (9)
p.6
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
POETRY
Horizons*
I wouldn’t call it vast
I would call it neverending
I fear leaving the Past
I fear-not forgetting
I fear the precipice
At the end of the World
For I leave dry land
Not knowing if I’ll return
I’ll be on my own
With only memories and wits
Learning to Fight
Learning to Win
Pride surges me forward
But longing holds me back
My mind looks onward
But my heart holds back
Then I remember a Celtic blessing
My father would recite
Sky Above me, Earth Below me, Fire Within Me
A shining light for the darkest night
Art by Valeria Sugden Sánchez (9)
I smile at the Horizon
Sea winds challenge my stride
My chin begins rising
Let God be my guide
*The scarce use of
punctuation has remained
intact as intented by the
author.
I summon all my grit
I laugh in mad delight
If this is the end... so be it!
Fear has yet to feel my might
- Cecilia Thon (12)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.7
POETRY
Untitled
You know what? I get it. I get why you fell in love with her so deeply,
so quickly,
so permanently.
She’s quite the anomaly, she’s smart, funny, witty…
Do you remember everything I wrote for you?
That night I poured my heart out to you and you replied with:
Art by María Elena (11)
“I find it funny how you compare yourself to her, you guys are so different.”
But that’s exactly why you chose me, isn't it?
Not because of our differences,
but because of our similarities.
“If you can’t be with the one you love, love the one you’re with.”
-Anonymous
Andante
He gripped my hand as I leapt into derangement,
thus, submitting myself to an unfamiliar environment
where delusion knew no boundaries
and retired were the surroundings.
I was lost between the mortal mist,
but here I truly coexist,
as the woman without flaws
and the one with a certain cause.
Not a day had passed by,
yet I undoubtedly knew why,
for I'd live here forever,
and the crystalline light would shine more than ever.
-Alejandra Quintana (12)
p.8
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Art by Lillian Floríán (12)
Short Stories
Ripples
Millie was walking to school on a showery day, averting her footsteps from the vast puddles of rain that
poured recently. The sky was tinted a dreary gray, but despite the climate, Millie's smile beamed against it. She was
the bright light that was missing on that day, an enthusiastic girl, anxious to simply enjoy the school year. "Today will
be a good day, - she thought - I will meet up with Matilda and Miriam, and together we will experience the
adventures that the new school year will bring." Today marked the start of the adventure that would eventually lead
towards countless others, until at last she discovered what would become of her in the future. When she looked
back to all the adventures she experienced in her lifetime, she would be able to look back, smiling like an innocent
high schooler once again.
As she walked through the gates of the school, she saw her friend Miriam near the school entrance, and
joyfully waved at her from the distance, trying to make eye contact. Focused on drawing the attention of her friend,
she stepped right on a large puddle of water that drenched her shoe with a rising outburst. She slowly looked down,
observing the also drenched sock with a stoic expression. It wouldn't dry in a short time, she was sure. While
removing her foot from the puddle to examine the crew sock exasperatedly, the ripples created on a nearby puddle
caught her attention. Bent down, with her hands working on folding the sock, she observed the ripples for a few
long seconds. Drip, drip, drip, and suddenly she felt a similar pattern created on her back, matching the rhythm of
the ripples created on the puddle. Was she turning into a puddle, perhaps? The rhythm on the nearby puddle and
her ironed uniform intensified; the sudden hum of a downpour and the footsteps of inconsiderate classmates that
splashed puddle water on her woke Millie from her trance. Heavy drops of rain began to fall as she ran to the
entrance, where Miriam was expecting her, safe from the rain. Frantically, she motioned at Millie, telling her to hurry
to avoid getting herself drenched. As Millie ran, she probably stepped over more puddles on the way, yet she
hurriedly concluded that she would get wet anyway; it didn't matter whether she stepped on them or not.
It was at that moment that she stopped. It didn't matter if she got wet. Although she was not far from the
entrance, she turned, covered her face, and looked up, gazing at the cloudy sky, feeling as the raindrops fell on her
ironed uniform, her shined shoes, her hair, her bag, heavy and full of all the new things she would learn. She heard
Matilda's voice complaining about the rain as she passed by her left side. Miriam laughed, joyfully greeting Matilda,
who still complained about the stupid rain, that ruined her hair, her new bag, and soaked her socks. Miriam calmed
her, smiling at her grumpy morning attitude.
Meanwhile, Millie was still in the rain, thinking about her bad luck, when an unexpected smile formed on her
lips. The irony of her daily life made her happy, even if it ruined her plans. Millie appreciated that every day was
different and interesting. She focused on those unique occurrences that happened in every day of her life. She
wanted to remember the events of her youth in her adulthood, with an inevitable smile on her face. She was
grateful for the good and the bad that happened in her life because, in the future, she would want to remember all
of it. She always looked at the world positively, because even rain had a benefit. She imagined all the lighthearted
conversations about today's morning mishap in the rain; the laughing and the smiling and the carefree chatting
without any worries. Therefore, what's a drizzle going to do when she'd get drenched anyways?
Smiling, she heard the voices of other classmates around her, laughing, playing in the rain, having fun with
their friends, remembering those childhood years where they liked to play in the rain... Those happy moments,
where the only purpose was to have fun, where things did not have to be so serious and people were more
carefree.
Suddenly, Millie felt someone's grip on her shoulder, and she turned around to find Miriam, who greeted her
full of laughter while her hair got wet in the refreshing rain. And together, they enjoyed their time in the rain, Matilda
joining them afterward. However, Millie knew that under that stubborn, grouchy attitude, there was also a girl who
appreciated the unexpected fate, just like how she wished everyone would.
- Claudia Figueroa (9)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.9
Short Stories
A Silent Resistance
The triumphant sound of trumpets, the commands of loyal knights, and the province’s marvelous preparation
indicated the arrival of the most anticipated day of the year. It was accustomed that the king, with all of his mighty
men, visit each of his provinces once a year to examine administrative, economic, and social efficiency. If
necessary, King Simond of Glassmore, as he was so nobly called, could impose new commands, orders, or rules to
improve the provinces’ organization. Araea, better known as the “Gleeful Province,” had been the king’s preferred
territory because of its vast lands, commercial prosperity, and sincere allegiance. The king and his men were an
unforgettable sight to behold as they entered the gates of Araea’s castle. The city’s authorities received the king with
pleasant conversation, boundless gifts, and infinite gratitude. Then, they proceeded to lead the king to the central
plaza where the province’s population was anxiously waiting for the divine ruler. King Simond observed the
spectacle with admiration and pride, blessing the state’s submissiveness and dedication. His train of thought was
unexpectedly interrupted by a remark from one of his knights: “Your Majesty, you are being called upon by the ruler
of this magnificent region to advise their people of its current state and impose any measures you find pertinent,
since your power is so greatly appreciated.” As soon as King Simond heard this, he walked peacefully, because of
his plump figure, toward the arranged stage. It took him a while to begin his, eventually unfortunate, speech.
“Isn’t King Simond a grand leader?”, declared Amelyn, a young handmaiden among the clamorous audience.
“Why, indeed he is!”, exclaimed Carlisle, her friendly companion. “However, I consider him quite fickle-minded,” he
added. Amelyn knew her innocent compatriot wouldn’t comprehend her sardonic tone; she sighed, “By grand, I
mean his power is too extensive for him to control, thus leading to cruel decisions and thoughtless actions.” She
contemplated whether to explain her comment to Carlisle, but was impeded by the trumpet’s cry. The king began his
lecture with a prolonged set of statements brimmed with respect and gratitude. He then explained how, after a
conscientious and careful evaluation, he concluded that Araea would need minor improvements. The king bluntly
declared that there would be new taxes imposed, more power and riches extracted for the central government, and
less recreational activities for the public’s enjoyment. Of course, this was all very demanding and burdensome to the
social strata, especially the working class. However, the king justified his decrees by stating that they would make
Araea more systematic, productive, and harmonious. These excuses did not convince rebellious Amelyn, who was
infuriated by how the king’s apparent honesty, justice, and morality persuaded the masses to compliance. “Oh,
Carlisle, I am genuinely enraged by the king’s corrupt position and wish to rid him of his cruel domination. I have no
other option but to convert to my subversive nature in order to overthrow the tyrant.” Carlisle desperately replied,
“Amelyn, I will try to convey peace and tolerance to your judgment. I urge you to terminate this insensitive stance
since violence can only bring destruction and misery. Remember, discretion is the better part of valor and having
courage can mean avoiding potentially dangerous situations.” “I thank you, my caring friend, for your thoughtful
advice. I trust that your perspective is the correct choice,” Amelyn answered. Among the noisy crowd, their concise
conversation was hindered and conveniently forgotten. As night fell, King Simond retired to his abode, and the quiet
province of Araea maintained its humble, hard-working, resilient attitude.
After months of laborious work, the king suddenly arrived at Araea, but, this time, he was accompanied only by
his most important subjects. He proclaimed that he needed to address the whole province posthaste. The
authorities speedily escorted him to the plaza. Once again, Amelyn and Carlisle were among the laggard and
exhausted public. King Simond began his statement by apologizing for the cruel and abusive measures he imposed
and decided to abolish them. He told of a noble ruler from a near kingdom, who he met soon after imposing his
decrees on Araea. This ruler, Ferdinand from Halema, convinced King Simond to relegate his menacing statutes
and instilled a renewed sense of justice and honor in him. King Simond finished his prolonged speech by repeatedly
apologizing and expressing the foulness of his mistake. Carlisle and Amelyn exchanged meaningful glances and
conveyed their mutual gratitude without any verbal communication. The province rejoiced and cheered, and
eventually returned to its gleeful condition…
Despite King Simond’s fortunate decision, Amelyn never ceased to believe that her sense of justice would
eventually lead her to overcome her silent resistance.
- Alejandra Quintana (12)
p.10
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Short Stories
Becoming One
Twice upon a time, the spirits of the flamboyan trees danced to the song of a great soul. It once came to the shores
of Borikén as Guamá, the lover.
He knew not of the goofy pirate who lost him at sea, nor of the Taíno mother who birthed him. In fact, he could not
read, write, or speak, for our special friend was raised by giant turtles!
There was a reason for why the majestic Careys mistook him for one of their own. As a babe, he was attacked by a
fierce darkness. This demon stormed his father’s ship in hopes of consuming Guamá’s energy. It was devoid of
love and survived by leeching off others. Guamá was a gargantuan fountain of love and would give the demon
immeasurable power. But never fear, the wise ocean felt the baby’s cry and sent a tidal wave to stop this. The boat
capsized and little Guamá had quite a fun ride with the currents. They eventually propelled him into his new abode,
an ancient turtle shell.
A small pocket of air, the occasional plankton-filled volcanic burst, and a whole lot of love were his sustenance for
the next seventeen years. Untouched by the ego of man, he enjoyed a very blissful existence with his turtle
brethren. One day, however, a fateful storm cast him ashore.
Blinded by the powerful sun, he began to move within the shell. His head popped out, and to his amazement there
was a wonderful new world to explore. He began to merrily roll around the beach when all of a sudden, Paloma the
Parrot greeted him with a sweet sweet mango. This was the beginning of a very fruitful friendship. From her,
Guamá learned a few words of Spanish. Apart from the occasional swear word she had picked up, Paloma gifted
him with a great piece of wisdom: “No le busques la quinta pata al gato.”
On another fateful day, he discovered what his legs were for and wandered off into the jungle. Our lovely turtle boy
chanced upon a family of escapen slaves and joined them in their naked dance. The oldest and wisest of the group,
Sofia, sang the tale of the dancing flamboyans while all the others hummed, drummed, and danced to her rhythm.
Finally free, the group was following Sofía’s dreams. She dreamt of a field of electric blue flamboyanes and the
great soul who dwelled there. Beings of neon light surrounded this magnetic feminine figure and called Sofía forth.
To find her way, she relied solely on her sense of smell as she was as blind as a bat. When she shared all this with
Guamá, she suddenly began to gag. The stench was horrible…
Coupled with gunshots, a sweaty troupe of Conquistadors swarmed the fireplace and captured the group. A grinch,
Don Gato de León, was leading an expedition for the fabled fountain of youth. This was one of the nasty cats who
decimated entire tribes of graceful Taínos. On their third night together, Sofía tasked Guamá to feed the
Conquistadors. She had cooked a wandering rooster for these men. Gato ate the legs and on his fourth, sent
Guamá on a hunt for more. Venturing once more into the jungle, a marvelous scent led him to a plump hen.
Remembering Paloma’s teaching, Guamá was not bringing Gato his fifth leg of chicken. Instead, he followed the
hen to a dark cave, where they parted. The hen would walk no longer but Guamá’s many years in the dark granted
him night vision. He entered the ominous opening and roamed towards the light.
The rising sun shone a beam of light through a crystalline waterfall at the end of the tunnel. Alas, in the blink of an
eye, he could no longer see. Everything went black and suddenly he was once more a baby in a sinking ship. Fear
was his only sense. The malevolent demon was eating his soul. Immobilized, he could do only one thing. Having
no mind, he opened his heart to the creature. The love was so strong, all darkness within the cave dissipated into a
shining void. The cave trembled as the illusory being disappeared and an explosion of light blew Guamá away from
the cave. He soared through a shower of infinite shades of blue. These electric petals danced over the bronze skin
of a radiant girl standing over him. Her marvel was great at the sight of Guamá. As his eyelids slid open, they both
gazed into eternity and melted into each other. The shell had finally broken.
- Joaquim Comellas (12)
Art by Erika Díaz (8)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.11
Short Stories
Perspectives
One lonely afternoon, when I beheld the blushing sky, I found myself lost in my constant state of
thought, in which I would evaluate the intricate brush-strokes I’d eventually attempt to mimic upon the
rough, rather unforgiving, felt of a virgin white canvas. My mental unfolding of a carefully crafted
masterpiece was interrupted by a gentle, curious jingling, a noise I’d learned indicated the movement of
my pet and partner, a black and silver schnauzer with silk-soft fur. I cast my gaze downwards and saw
him standing on his hind legs, front paws placed on the balcony to keep him from falling. He was looking
at the sky. I looked back and saw how the clouds shifted, orchestrating a beautiful harmony between the
falling sun and the sky. The once doll pink sky was now a delicate shade of purple that shifted to blue with
each passing heartbeat.
Again, my gaze returned to my dog, who was still admiring the scene unfolding before us. My
heart pulled, and I found myself kneeling down to his height. I braved my gaze to the darkening sky once
more and murmured a soft question, one I knew wouldn’t be answered.
“Do you ever wish you
could see more of the
world? Perhaps from a
different perspective?”
My dog looked at me, his bright eyes sparkling with the smallest hint of understanding. I pet him lovingly,
running my hand down his head before I picked him up, lifting his body so his golden eyes were level with
mine. For a second, it felt as if the world stopped, his gaze flickering to the sky, which was finally fading
into the darkest shade of night. We remained, watching, enjoying, as the last shreds of brightness were
overtaken with the cool evening.
- I.C.Q
p.12
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
ESSAYS
The Invaluable Legacy Of Hurricane María
September 20th of 2017 is a day that will forever prevail in Puerto Rican history. It was in the
dawn of this dreaded day that María battered the island without an invitation. By late afternoon, she
had departed, but left a legacy that will forever be remembered and felt. Every Puerto Rican witnessed
the magnitude of this tragedy. Billions of dollars in losses, a destroyed electrical grid, and the
government’s response may be some of the most trivial complications Puerto Rico faces, but these
issues seem to be everything the press talks about. The media has incessantly exposed visible harm
María did to the island, but is that all there is to this unwanted visitor? Did she not leave anything in
consideration for the inhabitants of our home country?
It may be an overstatement to call María a “blessing in disguise”, but some complications she
brought upon us can be viewed from this perspective. María taught Puerto Ricans lessons they could
not learn any other way. The destruction of the island’s electrical grid made people go outside and
interact with their neighbors. It provided a hiatus from the overpowering, dominant presence of phones
amid this generation. The massive material losses and relatively slow response from officials
highlighted Puerto Ricans’ generosity; many were driven to provide essential resources for those who
were severely affected by this catastrophic natural phenomenon. Hurricane María united Puerto Rico
in a way that had never been seen before. It helped the island grow more hopeful, and each Puerto
Rican persevered in their efforts to maintain hope and reconstruct, reenvision, and recreate the
culturally enriching island we treasure and value so dearly. In Puerto Rico, creative alternatives to
resources that are hard to attain are being devised. We have even recurred to other types of
entertainment that do not require modern techonology, such as card games, that have brought us
closer to one another in this time of crisis. Opportunity has been found amid all the adversity
Hurricane María left in its path. Even though it may have weakened Puerto Rico in the short-term, the
island will rise again, greater and stronger.
- Harold Peón (10)
Art by Elina Aguilar (12)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.13
ESSAYS
The following essay stems from a College Application prompt. In the face of adversity, due to Hurricane María, Seniors
were able to continue their college admissions process, and this written piece is an example of how resilience and
perseverance can produce extraordinary results.
“Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your
character or helped to shape it.”
“The best way to be truly happy is by helping others.” Mother Rosa said that to me on my first
missionary trip to Honduras. Soon after that journey abroad, three years ago, I was given the
opportunity of a lifetime. An opportunity that shaped me into the person I am today. For the past three
summers, during the first month of vacation, I have worked in the most amazing summer camp,
established in Puerto Rico some fifteen years ago, a place called “Vida Alegre” - “Happy Life” in
Spanish. A camp designed for disabled and special children who do not have the opportunity to
participate in any other summer program because of their conditions. I started as a runner and my job
focused on assisting the needs of all the children attending the camp each summer. A tough, but
rewarding job that goes on all day: helping kids change clothes, transferring them to the pool for a great
summer swim under our Caribbean sun, and feeding and helping them go the bathroom. The biggest
part of the job is to constantly motivate them by giving them encouragements as they perform these
daily tasks that seem so easy and normal to the rest of us.
It is intense and exhausting work; however, at the end of the day, it is equally rewarding. Being a
runner, I have the opportunity to share with all the kids in camp, but there is one very special kid that
has become my dear friend. His name is Carlos, he is sixteen years old and has a smile a mile wide.
He has a condition that affects his brain and, as a consequence, makes him deaf; he can only feel
sound vibrations. We have nurtured each other for the past three summers. Often times I wonder who
is really helping who? While we exercised doing aquatic therapies, he taught me sign language.
However, that is not all I have learned from him; he also taught me patience, understanding, and
happiness. When I see my pictures with Carlos from three years ago, I’m impressed by how much he
has grown and, most importantly, how he has contributed to my personal growth too.
I am very proud of all the kids in camp. I relish every little obstacle they overcome. I help them
accomplish simple everyday tasks that are a challenge for them: holding the spoon correctly, kicking
the ball into the porter’s lodge, and learning the words to our campy camp songs. This camp has
played a huge part in my life. I would not recognize who I am if I had never been part of this beautiful
experience and met the people who have changed my life forever. Like Mother Rosa said, find
happiness while helping others.
- Elina Aguilar (12)
p.14
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
ESSAYS
For the purposes of inquiry, and as a requisite for college applications, I posed a question of my own, and
provided my response, as follows:
After a long, arduous day, you decide to wind down in the comfort of your living room. There is a book lying on
the coffee table that you had not noticed earlier. Just when you pick it up, you are immediately transported to
the fictional realm of your favorite novel. What work of literature has become such an intrinsic part of your life
that you feel as if you can escape, whenever and wherever, to its world?
There is a very peculiar novel titled The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy that was written by Douglas Adams
and published in 1979. When I first heard about this work of science fiction, it was probably around nine to ten
years ago; to this day, I still cannot fully remember how it happened. Even though I technically knew about the
novel’s existence from an early age, it wasn’t until four years ago that I finally found a copy at a local bookstore.
After reading it, I would recur to certain remarks and moments in the novel that, eventually, became part of my
daily life. The significance of the number 42, the nonsensical phrase “so long, and thanks for all the fish!”, the
tedious Vogon Poetry Jam, and the inspirational motto “Don’t Panic!” are a few of the literary references that
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy instilled in my thoughts and conversations.
As strange as it sounds, it is not only a book about the hilarious, and wonderfully miraculous, way a group of
intergalactic space travelers survive and roam the universe, but also, it is an excellent journey into the depths of
human imagination. Douglas Adams’ novel is an exploration beyond the boundaries of the mind, and it has
motivated me to continually seek for my purpose in the universe. This other-worldly novel is sometimes thoughtprovoking;
a few other times, it is bizarre; and, throughout most of the novel, it is simultaneously both. I admire
the abundance of interesting characters and Adams' genius, witty writing style. As the story begins, Arthur Dent,
the novel's protagonist, is repeatedly frustrated by life's normal inconveniences and trivialities. Unexpectedly,
though, he is plucked from the untimely destroyed Earth, and is naturally exasperated, bewildered, and
panicked as he realizes he survived the unforeseen event. The novel pinpoints humanity's fickleness, and, by
using cryptic tales and figurative elements, explains how man is nothing but a speck of dust in the vast,
unknown universe. In a series of interplanetary missions, and through the main characters, Adams reflects on
many philosophical concerns and questions the very essence of life.
Nevertheless, I believe, as insignificant as humans may seem in the expansive universe, they are still a part
of the ever-unfolding history of life. For this reason, I retain pieces of the novel in my memory as reminders of
the incredible potential of humankind. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is indeed satirical, but the humorous
exaggerations reveal a universal truth: the absurdity of life. Even though Douglas Adams’ initial purpose might
have been to ridicule traditional science fiction novels, the novel serves as a reflection on the meaning of human
existence.
For the reasons stated above, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy will always accompany me in my journey
through life; this novel will infinitely provide me the same feelings of relief and joy I felt the very first time I read
it. At the time, I had doubts about the meaning of “life, the universe, and everything” (as described in the novel),
and after reading this work of fiction, I realized that my questions do not have concrete answers. Therefore,
instead of searching for rational explanations, one can choose to define their purpose in life through acting,
feeling, and thinking in accordance with their character. In the midst of an uncertain future, I can turn to Adams’
whimsical literary perception of the universe, and then attempt to seek my purpose in the real world.
- Alejandra Quintana (12)
Art by Isabella Colón (7)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.15
ESSAYS
The Wandering Shopper
For four frenzied weeks during the month of September, I had the honor of
attending most of the highly anticipated, highly esteemed fashion shows in New York
City, London, Paris and Milan. Of course, the experience of witnessing each wonderful
collection was brought to me by the little amount of data I had on my phone, but I must
say, the quality of the pictures was so spectacular that, in a way, these images
transported me to the front row, alongside social media influencers and magazine
editors. Since September presents a brand’s spring/summer collection, one would
expect runways to explode with flowers and pastels (“Florals? For spring?
Groundbreaking.” –Miranda Priestley, The Devil Wears Prada) in order to accentuate
such upcoming seasons. However, this year, as many others, introduced–or,
reintroduced–a variety of styles that are worthy of showing off in the new year (of
course, if only we could afford them!). As I gazed at these beautifully executed, striking
pieces, I pondered: which of these collections appeal to my style–to me? This question
often leads me towards a mist of doubt. What’s my style? Since the birth of mainstream
social media, celebrities, models, it girls, and a new wave of perpetrators of insecurities,
instamodels, have filled us up with jealousy, given their perfect style, which is seen in
their perfect photos, and is indicative of a perfect life. Their backgrounds may change,
some captions may be longer than others, and their follower count may constantly
increase, but there is one thing that remains consistent throughout them. Yes, you
guessed it. Their style.
As for me, I still haven’t found out what my style is. Social media, magazines and
the fashion industry in general have captivated my attention towards a number of
different aesthetics. Sometimes, I want to resemble a modern Manhattan working girl:
culottes, a white turtleneck shirt, topped with a blazer, the blackest sunglasses I own
and loafers. On other occasions, I want to live in Francoise Hardy and Jeanne Damas’
Paris. By this, I’m referring to their effortlessly chic aura: jeans galore, fluctuating
between white blouses and striped t-shirts, ballerina flats, silk scarfs and a beret if only
accompanied with a café noir and a croissant. Since I share a profound love for vintage
haute couture and classic films, I might want to channel Grace Kelly or Audrey Hepburn,
by means of lightly colored, knee- length dresses and an excessive amount of pearls.
Although, let’s face it, no one will ever be able to reach the level of class and
gracefulness they are known for. I could go on and on, considering I am completely
ambiguous. But do I have to reach a decision? Many believe that style is not just
clothing related, but that it’s a genuine way of letting the world know who you are. Your
attitude, how you view life, your opinion on certain topics, how you communicate and
respond to the present can also shape style. After having all of this settled, then you
pick out your wardrobe (it should never be the other way around). So, if the only step
towards finding your style is knowing yourself, how is it so hard?
p.16
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
ESSAYS
Well, people are multifaceted; this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Everyone has
different qualities within them that don’t go hand in hand. And, no matter how unrelated
one’s talents and traits can be, a skillful balance and an equal amount of appreciation
can be held. It’s not uncommon for successful people to focus on only one of their many
assets and interests. For example, Miuccia Prada, the Co-CEO and head designer of
Prada and Miu Miu, graduated with a PhD in political science before entering the family
business and becoming an illustrious figure in the history of fashion. Closer to home,
Rihanna, besides being a well-established singer, is also a songwriter, actress,
philanthropist, businesswoman and a rising fashion designer. Thus, solid proof exists
that one doesn’t have to comply with a specific way of dressing, working, or behaving.
Vintage or modern, modest or liberating, minimalistic or bold, Parisian or New Yorker,
embrace it. Be comfortable with who you are and what you’re here for. Once you have
defined yourself, style will follow, whether it’s one or a number of them. If you still can’t
find a style that suits you, just create your own.
- María Freyre (11)
Sketches by Alejandra Quintana (12)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.17
You Are Zeitgeist
Literature can become such as intrinsic part of one’s life that one can recur to certain quotes or moments
in novels, stories, and poems that appeal to their feelings and remind them of the transcendental power
of words. Treasure literature, since it can influence your perspective on many aspects of life.
10 Beautiful Quotes to Remember
"She wasn't doing a thing that I could see, except standing there leaning on the balcony railing, holding
the universe together."
—J. D. Salinger, "A Girl I Knew"
"Once upon a time there was a boy who loved a girl, and her laughter was a question he wanted to
spend his whole life answering."
—Nicole Krauss, The History of Love
“You don’t have to live forever, you just have to live.”
—Natalie Babbitt, Tuck Everlasting
“ Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It's splendid to find out there are so many of them in
the world.”
― L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
“Yes: I am a dreamer. For a dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment
is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world.”
― Oscar Wilde, The Critic as Artist
“The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind
him.”
― G.K. Chesterton
“Pure and complete sorrow is as impossible as pure and complete joy.”
― Leo Tolstoy, War and Peace
For nothing, not the sun, not the rain, not even the brightest star in the darkest sky, could begin to
compare to the wonder of you.
― Renee Ahdieh, The Wrath and the Dawn
“War must be, while we defend our lives against a destroyer who would devour all; but I do not love the
bright sword for its sharpness, nor the arrow for its swiftness, nor the warrior for his glory. I love only that
which they defend.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Two Towers
“We took away your art because we thought it would reveal your souls. Or to put it more finely, we did it
to prove you had souls at all.”
― Kazuo Ishiguro, Never Let Me Go
Selected by Cecilia Thon (12)
p.18
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
You Are Zeitgeist
Also, enjoy these humorous and/or sarcastic quotes that will make you want to remember them for future use.
10 Savage Quotes to Remember
“I would challenge you to a battle of wits, but I see you are unarmed!”
― William Shakespeare
“Do you remember me telling you we are practicing non-verbal spells, Potter?" "Yes," said Harry stiffly.
"Yes, sir." "There's no need to call me "sir" Professor."
― J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
“I never saw anybody take so long to dress, and with such little result.”
— Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest
"I don't know half of you half as well as I should like; and I like less than half of you half as well as you
deserve."
— J.R.R. Tolkien, Fellowship of the Ring
“And she’s got brains enough for two, which is the exact quantity the girl who marries you will need.”
— P.G. Wodehouse, Mostly Sally
“Nah. They asked me a lot of questions about you. I played dumb."
"Was it hard?" Annabeth asked.”
― Rick Riordan, The Battle of the Labyrinth
“Yes, and I’m sure the arena will be full of bags of flour for me to chuck at people.”
― Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games
“I don't want tea," said Clary, with muffled force. "I want to find my mother. And then I want to find out
who took her in the first place, and I want to kill them."
"Unfortunately," said Hodge, "we're all out of bitter revenge at the moment, so it's either tea or
nothing.”
― Cassandra Clare, City of Bones
“Where do you come up with these zingers, Clint? Do you own some kind of joke factory in Indonesia
where you've got eight-year-olds working ninety hours a week to deliver you that kind of top-quality
witticism? There are boy bands with more original material.”
― John Green, Will Grayson, Will Grayson
“I'm sorry, but were you dropped on your head as an infant?”
― Kathryn Stockett, The Help
Selected by Cecilia Thon (12)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
You Are Zeitgeist
A LITERARY MAGAZINE
LITERARY CROSSWORD PUZZLE
p.19
ACROSS
3 Harry Potter's godfather
4 Captain of a whaling ship, swore vengeance on Moby Dick
6 "My name is ____, you killed my father, prepare to die.”
7 Famous warrior of the Trojan War and character of The Illiad
9 Main antagonist of The Hunger Games
11 Title held by Ned Stark until his death, passed on to Robert Stark
15 Author of Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility, Northanger Abbey, and
Mansfield Park
16 Sherlock Holmes' address
18 Iconic image of Narnia, discovered by Lucy Pevensie
19 Shakespearean play which the movie 10 Things I Hate about You is based on
20 Poem by American poet Robert Frost about two diverging roads
DOWN
1 Figurative captain to which the poetic voice of "O Captain my Captain" refers to, president
2 Winner of the 2017 Nobel Prize for Literature, of British nationality, but born in Japan
5 Jay Gatsby's profession
8 Author of the Lord of the Rings trilogy
10 Edgar Allan Poe's morbid poem about the beating heart of a murdered man
12 Name of Percy Jackson's sword
13 Famous author siblings of the 19th century, works include: Wuthering Heights, Jane Eyre, and Agnes Grey
14 Protagonist of Mary Shelly's most famous book, and creator of a hideous monster
17 Futuristic novel written by George Orwell
Prepared by Cecilia Thon (12)
p. 20
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
You Are Zeitgeist
Literary Horoscopes
-Lillian Florián (12) and Alejandra Quintana(12)
Portraits by Isabelle Cabán (12)
Learn more about famous authors and get to know which one shares your Zodiac sign!
Charles Dickens {Aquarius}
Jane Austen {Sagittarius}
William Faulkner {Libra}
Leo Tolstoy {Virgo}
George Orwell {Cancer}
J. R. R. Tolkien {Capricorn}
Dickens was an English writer from the Victorian
Era, who was famous for his stories filled with
interesting characters and vivid descriptions of life
back then. His works include: Great Expectations,
David Copperfield, Oliver Twist and A Christmas
Carol. Fun Fact: Dickens loved acting. In fact, he
had his very own small theater in his home.
Jane Austen was an English writer from the late
eighteenth century. She is widely known for her
novels: Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Persuasion,
Sense and Sensibility, and Mansfield Park. Even
though she published her first book at the age of
35, she had begun writing poetry, novel drafts,
and plays at a young age to entertain her family
at home. Jane Austen thoroughly enjoyed going
to the theater, and she was a fan of comedies
and dramas.
William Faulkner was a twentieth century
American author, famous for his novels that
portray the decay of Southern society. In
1949, he won the Nobel Prize in Literature for
his contribution to the modern American
novel. His works include: Sanctuary,
Soldier’s Pay, The Sound and the Fury, As I
Lay Dying, and Absalom! Absalom!.
Leo Tolstoy was a Russian writer who is
considered to be a master of realistic fiction
and one of tte greatest writers in the world.
He is best known for his two works: War and
Peace and Anna Karenina. Fun Fact: He had
his own list of rules by which he tried to live
by, as well as a journal of the things he did
on a daily basis.
The term “Orwellian” is derived from one of
George Orwell’s most notable works of
fiction, 1984, and is used to describe
dystopian societies in which, just as in his
novel, every aspect of human life is
controlled and supervised by an
overarching power. Orwell also wrote the
allegorical novel Animal Farm.
J.R.R. Tolkien, gifted with an
incredibly imaginative mind, created
a fantastical world with its own
geography, language, and
inhabitants in his renown trilogy: The
Lord of the Rings. He also wrote The
Hobbit and The Silmarillion.
Charlotte Brontë {Taurus}
John Steinbeck {Pisces}
Margaret Atwood {Scorpio}
Herman Melville {Leo}
Maya Angelou {Aries}
Charlotte Brontë, along with her two
sisters, wrote novels that, nowadays,
are considered masterpieces of
English Literature. Some of her
works include: Jane Eyre and Villette
Fun Fact: She first published novels
and poems under the pseudonym
Currer Bell.
John Steinbeck was an American
author who won the Nobel Prize in
Literature in 1962. His novels criticize
social perception, and his most
recognized works are: Of Mice and
Men, Cannery Row, The Pearl, and
The Grapes of Wrath.
Canadian author Margaret Atwood’s
list of admirable careers include
poet, novelist, and environmental
activist. She is mostly known for
The Handmaid’s Tale, a dystopian
novel that criticizes the unrestrained
extent of a patriarchal society.
Herman Melville wrote one of
the most esteemed literary
works of all time, Moby Dick,
and is considered a maximum
exponent of the American
Renaissance period.
Maya Angelou’s memoir I Know
Why the Caged Bird Sings depicts
the effects of social stigma and
emphasizes the value of education
in a racially divided community.
She is also known for her powerful
poetry.
Arthur Conan Doyle {Gemini}
Who hasn’t heard of detective Sherlock
Holmes and his trusty companion Dr.
Watson? Arthur Conan Doyle invented
these famed literary characters and
wrote many novels on their adventures.
He is considered an important contributor
to the genre of mystery.
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
A LITERARY MAGAZINE
p. 21
Zeitgeist Recommends…
10 Essential Films from the Upcoming Awards Season
Even if these films are not nominated for any recognitions in the upcoming awards season, I believe this list of movies
summarizes some of the awe-inspiring, excellent cinema that has been released this past year.
- Alejandra Quintana (12)
p.22
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Zeitgeist Recommends…
A Playlist for the Current Times
Right now, Puerto Rico is undergoing a time of crisis because of the recent menace that
was Hurricane Maria. During these types of ordeals, staying calm and collected is extremely
difficult.
After September 20 th , the stress of not knowing if your country is going to be fine after
this plight haunts all Puerto Ricans, and we don’t know how to deal with the situation.
Every person has a different way to deal with stress. I have found the best way to do this
is to get in touch with my creative side. For me, art and music are a very relevant, calming
mechanism in my life, especially music. Because of this, I have put together a small playlist with
uplifting songs that can help us manage the current situation in Puerto Rico. These songs are a
very important part of my life; I resort to them when I need to vent about a particular situation
that is troubling me. With this, I hope to bring light to your life in a time of darkness. Please
enjoy.
Title:
Artist:
Overview:
Rise
Katy Perry
This song is the most uplifting song I have heard in my lifetime. Lyrics like “I won’t just
survive, oh, you will see me thrive” and “I must stay conscious through the madness in
chaos” describe exactly what we feel in this time of crisis.
Title: Fight Song
Author: Rachel Platten
Overview: A powerful song about being strong during difficult times. This song talks about being
brave enough to power through and be successful.
Title: Roar
Artist: Katy Perry
Overview: A song I know almost everybody reading this has heard. Important lyrics include “I went
from zero to my own hero”, “You held me down, but I got up”, and, of course, “You’re
gonna hear me roar.”
Title:
Artist:
Overview:
Almost Like Praying
Lin-Manuel Miranda
This song was written in response to the disastrous effects of Hurricane Maria in Puerto
Rico. It is performed by well-known Puerto Rican and Latino artists. The lyrics are solely
the names of all the towns in Puerto Rico, which gives Puerto Ricans a feeling of being
seen and heard.
Title: By the Grace of God
Artist: Katy Perry
Overview: This song is very sentimental and emotional. The work speaks to all the people that do
not feel like they matter or contribute to this world. Powerful lyrics include “I know I am
enough”, “I picked myself back up”, and “I looked in the mirror and decided to stay.”
I now invite you to listen to these songs and to feel empowered to help Puerto Rico rise up from
this difficult state. If we all unite, we can bring Puerto Rico to the state that it was before Hurricane
Maria, and make it better.
- Ricardo Mercadé (10)
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 A LITERARY MAGAZINE p.23
Zeitgeist Recommends…
Art by Ricardo Mercadé (10)
p.24
A LITERARY MAGAZINE Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Message from the moderator of Zeitgeist Literary
Magazine, Mrs. Mari Vega:
“As we approach the holiday season, let’s reflect
on the importance of finding opportunity in
adversity. Hurricane María might have “wounded”
us, but it has also given us some blessings, such
as the gift of resilience. This experience has
taught us that Puerto Ricans are strong, that we
can adapt and we do not give up. Let’s make our
inner light shine this holiday season and simply
be thankful for being alive.”
Here is a collage of book recommendations from the
members of Zeitgeist that include the themes of resilience
and hope in the midst of adversity:
Photo taken and edited by María Elena Álvarez (11)
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