Let’s delve into the details of this bewitching saga.

Shakira’s Record-Breaking Diss Track

On January 11, 2023, Shakira dropped a bombshell in the form of her latest song, “BZRP Music Sessions #53,” a collaborative effort with Argentine DJ Bizarrap. This diss track, also known as “Out Of Your League,” immediately shattered records by becoming the most-watched new Latin song on YouTube, amassing a staggering 63 million views within just 24 hours.

In the track, Shakira leaves no stone unturned, taking jabs at her former husband Gerard Piqué, who she parted ways with in 2022 after an 11-year relationship. The song explicitly addresses their separation and the subsequent events, including Piqué’s new romance with a 23-year-old woman.

“I’m worth two 22-year-olds. You traded in your Ferrari for a Twingo. You traded in your Rolex for a Casio,” she asserts in the song, suggesting that Piqué may have focused too much on physical appearances rather than intellectual pursuits.

Shakira also takes a swipe at her mother-in-law, the relentless media scrutiny she faces, and her ongoing tax fraud case with Spanish authorities, who claim she owes €14.5 million (U$14.8 million) in taxes.

The Witchy Balcony Display

Over the weekend, residents in the vicinity of Shakira’s Spanish residence reported an unexpected twist to the ongoing drama. The singer was allegedly playing her diss track at full volume, ensuring that her message reverberated through the neighborhood. 

However, it was the addition of a witch doll on her balcony that truly captured everyone’s attention.

A video showcasing the eerie witch doll quickly went viral on Twitter, amassing over 7.5 million views. The witch’s ominous presence facing her ex-mother-in-law’s house has left many speculating about the symbolism behind this intriguing choice.

The Public’s Reaction

Shakira’s post-divorce theatrics have not gone unnoticed, and the public is undeniably intrigued. The combination of a scathing diss track and a mysterious witchy display has ignited a social media frenzy. It appears that people are drawn to the spectacle and are eagerly following each development in this captivating saga.

Watch and discuss this decision after this video in comments

The Power of Artistic Expression

Shakira’s decision to express herself through music and symbolism is a testament to the power of artistic expression. Music has always been a means for artists to convey their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. 

In this case, Shakira has used her talent to create a diss track that not only addresses her personal life but also resonates with her fans worldwide. The song’s record-breaking success on YouTube showcases the impact of her words and music.

Additionally, the placement of the witch doll on her balcony adds an element of intrigue and mystique to the story. While its exact meaning remains a topic of speculation, it highlights the artistic and creative ways individuals choose to communicate their feelings, especially during significant life events like divorce.

Empowerment Through Music

Shakira’s lyrics in “Out Of Your League” send a clear message of empowerment. She asserts her self-worth and resilience in the face of adversity. Lines like, “Women no longer cry, women get paid,” underline her commitment to self-empowerment and independence. Through her music, Shakira not only expresses her emotions but also empowers others to find strength in challenging times.

Conclusion

Shakira’s fusion of music and symbolism has transformed her post-divorce narrative into a captivating and enigmatic saga. As she continues to make headlines with her diss track and bewitching balcony display, the world remains captivated by her artistic expression and empowering message. 

Stay tuned for more updates on this extraordinary chapter in Shakira’s life as she navigates the highs and lows of post-divorce life with style and creativity.

The post Shakira Witch: the Magic Behind Her Post-Divorce Symbolism appeared first on European Security Jornal - ESJNews.

A Month of Geopolitical Shifts

The Afghanistan Crisis: A Turning Point

One of the most prominent events in August 2022 was the continued turmoil in Afghanistan. The Taliban’s resurgence and the subsequent evacuation of foreign nationals marked a significant turning point in the nation’s history.

russia-Ukraine War

The War between russia and Ukraine took a concerning turn in August 2022, with increased tensions and clashes in eastern Ukraine. The international community closely monitored this situation, which had far-reaching implications.

Natural Disasters and Environmental Concerns

Wildfires Ravage the World

August 2022 witnessed devastating wildfires in various parts of the world, including California, Greece, and Turkey. These disasters highlighted the growing challenges posed by climate change and the urgent need for environmental action.

Hurricane Season in Full Force

The Atlantic hurricane season was in full swing, with several powerful storms making landfall in the United States and the Caribbean. Communities along the Gulf Coast and Atlantic seaboard faced significant challenges due to these storms.

Cultural Milestones and Sporting Achievements

Tokyo Paralympics

The Tokyo Paralympics, held in August 2022, celebrated the athletic prowess and determination of para-athletes from around the world. The event showcased the power of human spirit and resilience.

 The Met Gala’s Extravaganza

The Met Gala, a prominent event in the fashion world, took place with its theme “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion.” It attracted attention not only for its glamorous red carpet but also for its exploration of American fashion.

Scientific Breakthroughs and Innovations

Mars Perseverance Rover Milestones

In the realm of space exploration, the Mars Perseverance Rover achieved remarkable milestones, providing valuable insights into the Red Planet’s geology and past habitability.

Advancements in COVID-19 Research

August 2022 also saw significant progress in the fight against COVID-19. Researchers made strides in understanding the virus and developing new treatments and vaccines.

Discover what happened in 2022 in the world, check this video

Environmental Resilience and Global Awareness

G7 Summit Climate Commitments

Leaders from the G7 nations convened in August 2022 to address pressing global issues. Climate change took center stage, with commitments made to accelerate efforts to combat it and promote sustainable development.

Amazon Rainforest Protection

Concerns about deforestation in the Amazon rainforest remained a global priority. Environmental activists and organizations continued their efforts to protect this critical ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Shifting Economic Landscapes

Inflation Concerns

Economic news in August 2022 was marked by growing concerns about inflation in various parts of the world. Policymakers grappled with strategies to manage rising prices and ensure economic stability.

Cryptocurrency Developments

The world of cryptocurrency witnessed notable developments, including regulatory discussions and the emergence of new digital currencies. These innovations signaled ongoing shifts in the global financial landscape.

Conclusion

In retrospect, August 2022 was a month of pivotal moments that reshaped our world in various ways. The geopolitical landscape shifted, environmental challenges persisted, and cultural milestones were celebrated. 

It was a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of adapting to an ever-changing global landscape.

As we move forward, it’s crucial to learn from the events of August 2022, addressing the issues that arose and working collaboratively to build a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world. 

This month serves as a testament to the capacity of individuals and nations to respond to challenges and embrace opportunities for positive change.

The post What Happened in August 2022: A Month of Global Developments appeared first on European Security Jornal - ESJNews.

The Fluffy Kings and Queens

Himalayan Kittens

Starting our journey into the world of cuteness are the Himalayan kittens, with their striking blue eyes and fluffy, snow-white fur. These charming felines have a way of melting hearts with their innocent looks and playful antics.

Baby Alpacas

Baby alpacas, or “crias,” as they are known, are next on our list. With their soft, curly fleece and endearing smiles, it’s impossible not to fall in love with these South American treasures. They are undeniably among the cutest animals in the world for 2022.

The Quirky and Playful

Red Pandas

Red pandas, often referred to as the “fire foxes,” are renowned for their playful personalities and bushy tails. In 2022, they continue to capture our hearts with their roly-poly antics and expressive faces.

Otters

Who can resist the charm of otters? These aquatic acrobats stole the spotlight in 2022 with their boundless energy and mischievous behavior. Whether they’re holding hands while floating or sliding down riverbanks, otters are perpetual crowd-pleasers.

Lift your spirits, watch this video with baby animals

The Majestic Marvels

Arctic Foxes

Arctic foxes, with their snow-white coats and inquisitive eyes, epitomize the beauty of the wild. In 2022, these majestic creatures continued to thrive in their icy habitats, enchanting us with their resilience and elegance.

Pandas

Of course, no list of the cutest animals would be complete without pandas. Giant pandas, with their iconic black and white markings, remain beloved ambassadors for wildlife conservation. In 2022, their bamboo-munching antics continued to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Undeniable Appeal

As we’ve seen, 2022 was a year brimming with irresistible cuteness, and it wasn’t easy to single out the cutest animal in the world. From the playful antics of red pandas and otters to the elegance of arctic foxes and the iconic charm of pandas, every creature had its unique allure.

Conclusion

These adorable beings are more than just the stars of viral videos and heartwarming memes. They serve as ambassadors for wildlife conservation, drawing attention to the importance of preserving their natural habitats. In a world facing environmental challenges, their cuteness reminds us of the precious diversity of life on our planet.

The cutest animals in the world for 2022 have left an indelible mark on our hearts. They’ve brought joy, laughter, and a sense of wonder into our lives. 

While it’s impossible to choose a single winner, we can all agree that these creatures have enriched our year with their endearing presence. Here’s to a future where cuteness continues to thrive, reminding us of the beauty and magic of the natural world.

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The Birth of Rockers: Metallica’s Impact on Society

In the vibrant and turbulent 1980s, a decade characterized by Cold War tensions, societal upheaval, and an excessive use of hair spray, the emergence of Metallica marked a pivotal moment in the world of music. It was an era where political activism seamlessly intertwined with artistic expression, and Metallica was at the forefront of this revolutionary fusion. Beyond the blistering guitar riffs and thunderous drum beats, their music carried profound messages and subtle nods to the tumultuous world they inhabited. From the very beginning of their journey, Metallica unapologetically bared their souls, infusing their raw musical prowess with a resounding and authentic voice.

The Lyrics That Evoke Deep Reflection

In the world of Metallica, lyrics transcend mere words; they are powerful vessels that transport listeners to contemplative realms. While the saying, “War does not determine who is right – only who is left,” isn’t directly from Metallica, it encapsulates the essence of many of their tracks. Iconic songs like “One” and “Disposable Heroes” serve as a poignant testament to their anti-war stance, provoking profound introspection about the human cost of conflict.

However, their lyrical brilliance doesn’t end with anti-war sentiments. Metallica’s lyrical canvas is vast and far-reaching, delving into themes of censorship, personal freedoms, and the impending environmental crisis. Yet, what sets their lyrics apart is their subtle ambiguity, often cloaked in metaphor and allegory. It’s akin to attempting to capture lightning in a bottle; just when you think you’ve deciphered their stance, another layer of interpretation reveals itself.

Metallica’s Impact: Beyond Music

Metallica’s influence extends far beyond their musical prowess. Their blend of political and social consciousness with their music has left an indelible mark on the world. Here are some notable aspects of their impact:

• Activism Through Music: Metallica demonstrated that music can be a powerful medium for activism. Their songs have served as anthems for change, inspiring countless fans to question the status quo and advocate for social and political reform;
• Inspiring a New Generation: Metallica’s ability to convey complex ideas through their music has inspired a new generation of musicians to use their art as a platform for change. Many contemporary artists draw inspiration from Metallica’s fearless approach to addressing societal issues;
• Musical Evolution: Over the decades, Metallica’s music has evolved, reflecting not only their personal growth but also the changing socio-political landscape. This evolution has allowed them to remain relevant while staying true to their core values;
• Live Performances as a Platform: Metallica’s concerts are more than just musical events; they are platforms for conveying their messages. The band often incorporates visual elements and storytelling into their live shows, enhancing the impact of their music;
• Engaging a Diverse Audience: Metallica’s ability to tackle a wide range of social and political topics in their music has attracted a diverse fan base. Their music transcends boundaries and resonates with people from various backgrounds and beliefs.

Members’ Personal Stances: A Mixtape of Views

When it comes to unraveling the political inclinations of Metallica’s iconic band members – James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo – one quickly realizes that their ideological spectrum is a mesmerizing mosaic. Just as their music spans across genres, their individual worldviews meander through a kaleidoscope of perspectives.

• James Hetfield: Often described as the enigmatic soul of the group, James Hetfield is a master at keeping his political cards close to his chest. His approach is akin to a seasoned poker player, never revealing his hand entirely. However, glimpses into his views have emerged over the years. Hetfield’s perspective leans toward a more laid-back, reserved stance on political matters;
• Lars Ulrich: Lars Ulrich, on the other hand, is no stranger to the limelight when it comes to politics. He gained notoriety as the poster boy for the Napster saga, taking a vocal stance against online music piracy. This willingness to engage in public discourse on music industry issues showcases Ulrich’s assertive and politically conscious nature;
• Kirk Hammett: In the realm of Metallica’s politics, Kirk Hammett’s views emerge as a harmonious blend of artistic expression and social awareness. He often delves into the broader implications of the band’s music on society, using his platform to spark thought-provoking discussions;
• Robert Trujillo: As the newest member of the band, Robert Trujillo brings his own unique perspective. Hailing from a different musical background prior to joining Metallica, he brings a fresh outlook to the group’s dynamics. Trujillo’s views reflect a dynamic fusion of experiences, subtly woven into the band’s rich tapestry.

In various interviews, these rock legends have shared snippets of their worldviews, demonstrating their engagement with global events. While they may not wear their political hearts on their sleeves, it’s evident that they are tuned in to the world around them and are unafraid to voice their opinions when the occasion calls for it. Metallica’s members are not just musical icons; they are also thoughtful observers of the world they inhabit.

The Fanbase: A World of Different Voices

Stepping into a Metallica concert is akin to entering a vibrant and inclusive universe where diversity thrives. The fanbase of this legendary band transcends geographical boundaries, cultural nuances, and political beliefs. What makes this mosaic of fans particularly intriguing is that Metallica’s music serves as a binding force that bridges the gaps among them.

• Global Reach: Metallica’s music knows no borders. Their concerts are attended by enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. From Tokyo to Toronto, Moscow to Mexico City, their fanbase stretches far and wide, showcasing the universal appeal of their music;
• Cultural Diversity: Metallica fans come from diverse cultural backgrounds, and their shared love for the band fosters a sense of unity that transcends language barriers and cultural differences. This global cultural exchange is an organic result of the band’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life;
• Political Spectrum: Just as Metallica’s band members span the political spectrum, so do their fans. From staunch conservatives to passionate progressives, Metallica’s music resonates with individuals across the political spectrum. Importantly, the band doesn’t impose their political views on their audience, allowing fans the freedom to interpret and engage with their music in their own unique ways;
• Music as a Catalyst: Metallica’s music acts as a catalyst for self-expression and introspection among their fans. It serves as a canvas upon which listeners can project their own emotions, beliefs, and experiences. Whether it’s the raw power of “Master of Puppets” or the introspective journey of “The Unforgiven,” Metallica’s songs provide a rich tapestry for fans to explore their own thoughts and feelings.

Conclusion

Metallica’s political views aren’t about pushing an agenda or drawing battle lines. It’s about reflection, questioning, and, most importantly, fostering a sense of unity among fans. They’ve strummed the chords of politics, danced around its edges, and sometimes, jumped right into its fiery core. Through it all, one thing remains clear: Metallica is more than just a band; they’re a voice echoing the sentiments of a generation, wrapped up in a package of electrifying metal.

So, next time you’re jamming to “Enter Sandman” or getting lost in “Nothing Else Matters”, remember there’s more to the story. Behind those iconic tracks lies a rich tapestry of political insight, waiting for those willing to listen closely.

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In an industry where artists often use their platforms to express their beliefs and engage with the socio-political landscape, Eminem has emerged as a significant voice. From his controversial lyrics that have ignited debates to his public statements and actions, Eminem’s political evolution has been a captivating journey.

In this article, we delve into the complex and evolving political views of one of rap’s most iconic figures. We’ll explore how Eminem’s music, personal experiences, and public persona have shaped his perspective on issues ranging from race and inequality to free speech and political activism. As we navigate the intricacies of his journey, we aim to uncover the man behind the mic and gain insight into the political consciousness that drives his artistry. Eminem’s political views are more than just words; they are an exploration of his own evolving identity in a rapidly changing world.

Eminem’s Monumental Support for Joe Biden

Eminem, a legendary figure in the music world, known for his steadfast stance on not licensing his music, made a groundbreaking decision to endorse Joe Biden for the President of the United States. This endorsement is notable as Eminem—also known as Marshall Mathers—has granted permission for his globally recognized and chart-topping song “Lose Yourself” to feature in a Biden campaign ad, marking a significant moment in his career.

A Transformational Campaign Ad

The campaign ad, dubbed “One Opportunity,” is a concise, 45-second piece yet speaks volumes, urging citizens to exercise their right to vote. With only a day left before Election Day when it was released, it served as a powerful reminder of the importance of each vote. The ad interweaves black-and-white visuals of everyday Americans from diverse locales, including Eminem’s hometown of Detroit, bringing a sense of unity and shared responsibility among the viewers.

Intricate Elements and Visuals:

• Impactful Footage: The visuals narrate tales of individual Americans, reflecting a harmonious blend of diverse narratives;
• Stirring Lyrics: The words “If you had one shot or one opportunity” resonate, echoing the crucial role of voting in instigating change;
• Emphatic Message: The recurring appearance of the word “VOTE” amplifies the call to action, encouraging citizens to make their voices heard.

A Message for Change

The ad artfully merges impactful lyrics and compelling imagery to drive home the message that every vote is a stepping stone toward a transformative change in America. It prompts viewers to seize this chance, to wield their power in deciding the future course of the nation. Eminem’s endorsement signifies his belief in the Biden / Harris campaign’s potential to reshape America’s destiny.

Eminem’s Support for President Barack Obama

In 2012, Eminem publicly expressed his admiration for President Barack Obama, signaling his left-leaning political inclination. He not only voiced his support but also confirmed that he had voted for Obama and was willing to do so again. Let’s explore why Eminem found resonance with the 44th President of the United States:

Key Points:

• Eminem viewed President Obama as a beacon of hope. The charismatic leadership, authority, and confidence displayed by Obama appealed to the rapper;
• The 2008 election, in particular, had a profound impact on Eminem, making him a more engaged observer of politics;
• Obama’s promise of hope and change resonated deeply with Eminem and many others during a time of political uncertainty.

Eminem’s Critique of President George W. Bush and the Iraq War

In contrast to his favorable view of Obama, Eminem did not shy away from criticizing President George W. Bush, especially in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the contentious Patriot Act. His critique was most notably expressed in his song “Mosh,” where he rapped about anarchy and the President’s involvement in the Iraq War:

Key Points:

• Eminem’s lyrics in “Mosh” reflected his frustration with the Bush administration and the Iraq War, aligning with the sentiments of many Americans at the time;
• It’s worth noting that Eminem’s lyrics went so far as to trigger a Secret Service investigation due to a perceived threat against the President, although he was eventually cleared of any wrongdoing.

Eminem’s Political Evolution and Contradictions

Eminem’s political journey has not been without its contradictions, leaving some fans perplexed about his true political allegiance. Despite his vocal support for President Obama and, more recently, the Biden campaign, some argue that his earlier lyrics containing homophobia and sexism are at odds with his current political stance. This has led to debates among fans and critics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, delving into Eminem’s political views offers us a multifaceted perspective on an artist whose lyrical prowess and cultural impact extend far beyond the world of music. Throughout his career, Eminem has evolved from provocative shock value to a more socially conscious and politically engaged artist, reflecting the changing landscape of American politics and society. His lyrics have tackled a wide range of issues, from poverty and addiction to racial inequality and political corruption.

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What to do to boost your writing performance

1. Read often. Reading is one of the best ways to improve your writing skills. Reading helps you absorb new ideas and develop an understanding of different topics that can help inform your writing. Reading has long been considered an effective way to widen one’s horizon. Reading books exposes you to different styles of writing, which can help you find your unique style. Dedicate time each day or week to read a variety of genres, authors, and topics.

2. Take notes. Whenever you read something interesting, take notes so that you can refer to it later when you’re working on your writing projects. Jotting down key concepts or quotes from articles that catch your eye will also help broaden your knowledge base. Take notes on what you like and don’t like when reading other authors’ works. Make notes of the styles and techniques that they use, as well as any mistakes you spot. This can help you to identify areas for improvement in your work.

3. Learn grammar and punctuation. A basic understanding of grammar and punctuation will help ensure that your writing is accurate and error-free. Investing the time to brush up on these fundamentals can make a massive difference in the quality of your work. As an author, you should have a good handle on grammar and punctuation to convey your thoughts and ideas to readers properly. Understanding basic language rules will also help you express yourself more clearly.

4. Work on an outline. One of the most critical steps to improving your writing skills as an author is to work on an outline. An outline can provide a structure for what you want to say and ensure that all your points are addressed in the content. Having an organized plan before beginning to write will help ensure that everything flows smoothly and that there is no room for confusion or distraction. When outlining, you can also consider how the various elements should be ordered, what topics need more attention than others, and which points are best left until the end. By taking time to create a clear outline, authors significantly improve their chances of producing highly engaging and well-crafted pieces of writing. Before starting any writing project, create a structure that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

5. Explore different writing styles. Different types of writing require different approaches and techniques for success. Take some time to learn about narrative, persuasive, descriptive, expository, and other types of papers to be more versatile in your work. Writing styles vary in how authors convey or express their thoughts and ideas. Each style has its own set of rules and guidelines, so you must discover which writing style works best for you. Read different types of literature to gain insight into various writing styles and techniques. Consider utilizing aspects from multiple styles to refine your craft as an author.

6. Get feedback. Feedback from others is an invaluable way to improve your writing skills. Having someone else read through your work and provide constructive criticism will help you identify any weak areas that need improvement, such as grammar mistakes or clunky sentences. You can also ask them what they think of your overall message and if it comes across clearly to readers. This type of advice is especially beneficial when trying out new styles or topics. Get feedback from peers and mentors on your writing style. Ask them questions to help improve your skills – why do they think something works or doesn’t? Listen carefully to their advice and consider it when revising your next piece of work. 

7. Attend workshops. Another way to improve your writing skills is by taking classes or participating in workshops related to writing. Attend lectures or take online courses that can teach you about structure, point-of-view, dialogue, and other elements of fiction and nonfiction writing. Participate in group critiques with other writers where you can receive feedback on your work as well as give constructive

8. Take breaks. Writing can be exhausting at times. Taking breaks from writing is essential in improving your writing skills. Taking a break gives you the opportunity to step back, look at what you wrote, and assess how everything looks. This can give you a better perspective on the overall flow of your content and allow you to make any necessary changes or edits. In addition, taking breaks will help prevent burnout and keep your creativity fresh.

Conclusion

You will find that your writing skills improve significantly over time with dedication and practice. Use the tips above to help guide you on your journey toward becoming a better writer! Good luck!

The post How to improve your writing skills? appeared first on European Security Jornal - ESJNews.

make sure that every question has a meaningful answer, weeding out the blanks;

make sure there is logic in the text: put yourself in the reader’s shoes and see what might be unclear to a person who is new to the subject, make it clear – put references, explain terms;

work with the language: replace the crooked colloquial constructions with literary ones, if the crooked constructions do not reflect the character of the person or his interesting style of speech, simplify the sentence structure to make it easier to understand, weed out the clericalisms;

remove unnecessary things (boring passages, digressions that alienate the conversation from the subject of the interview, clarifying questions, if they do not make the text more piquant, funny or witty);

check the text for factual, grammatical, and spelling errors, paying special attention to names, titles, numbers, and terms.
And then you have to bring the text to life. No one has ever articulated it better than reporter Dmitry Sokolov-Mitrich: “From the very first lines, hit him in the face and don’t let [the reader] come to his senses for a second. As soon as he comes to his senses, he immediately stops reading your text.
The interview should turn into a clean folding speech, a flight of original thought, or something so disgustingly appealing that you just can’t tear yourself away from it, that the reader is with you, that the reader is captivated, even if he doesn’t agree with or sympathize with the character. Sometimes this can be done by rearranging the questions, sometimes the questions can be rewritten a bit (not changing their meaning, but changing individual words), sometimes you need to add more illustrations, put individual stories in boxes, or expand the beginning with a story about the hero by quoting the most interesting things from other media.

But, again, sometimes it’s difficult without introductory questions, then you can’t get a straight “in the face. In this case you can get even with the headline and the lead (the first paragraph before the text, which introduces the reader to the story) – mention there all the highlights of the interview.

You’ll understand how to bring the text to life by rereading it several times, not in a row, but a couple of days apart, if you have them. You will see superfluous words, rough joints, unnatural expressions, you will see nonsense on nothing. And when you get it all right, you’ll be surprised.

An important point: you don’t rewrite the character’s words, you don’t distort his thoughts, you don’t destroy his personality, on the contrary, you help it all come out. Sometimes, for this to happen, you can put a ellipsis in the text and thus show that the person was thinking, you can show how the person began to argue with himself – don’t just leave the outcome of this argument, etc.

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Open questions are those to which a person can give a detailed answer, they begin with “why”, “how”, “why”, “what”, etc. Closed questions are those to which a person will give a one-word answer: “yes” or “no”.

Open-ended questions
The power of open-ended questions is that the person will give you a lot of information right away. “How did you get to that dark street?” – you ask, and the person is likely to tell you in detail about the purpose of his journey and the obstacles. Although, of course, he may answer, “I just walked and got there.” You have to be prepared for that, too.

Open questions force a person to enter into a dialogue, give him the opportunity to express himself and reflect. The highest caste of open-ended questions are “why” and “why”. They save the journalist in the most difficult situations: when he is ill-prepared or when there is no time for other questions.
Answering a question beginning with “why” or “why” will, in most cases, tell a whole story with colorful details and express one’s feelings about it.

In most cases, but not always. If the character is taciturn or confused, you will still have to polish his answer with other questions, but you will get enough clues to continue the interview.

The disadvantage of open-ended questions is that the respondent sometimes gets carried away. And if the interviewer is inexperienced, this will be a serious problem for him: interrupting the person is scary, ugly even. So he will sit and listen until the interlocutor runs out of time, and risks simply not having enough time to ask the questions he needs. Do not be afraid to interrupt. Only if a teacher is in front of you, interrupt him or her as carefully and politely as possible. They often perceive it very painfully.

Closed questions
The advantage of closed questions is that they save time. This is handy if you meet with the character spontaneously or you need to quickly take a comment. As a result, the interlocutor doesn’t waste energy picking up words and building complex chains of logic. But in other circumstances, a large number of successive closed questions are inappropriate – the interlocutor will only have to confirm or deny your words.

This is the main disadvantage of closed questions – they do not help to develop a dialogue. If you are just starting out in the interview and are unsure of what you can do, there may be silence after a closed question, and you will get nervous and have no idea what to ask next.

If you need some time to figure out how to steer the conversation, ask an open-ended question that you don’t need – that is, a question to which you have no interest at all. You’ll delete this piece of text – you know this already. But while the person will tell you something, you will get together and come up with a good question.
Gaining experience and courage, you will realize that there is nothing wrong with silence. Sometimes journalists artificially achieve this effect: they ask a simple closed-ended question, get a short answer, and then wait. If a person is not ready for that, he will not sustain a pause and fill it with words, developing a thought.

Clarifying questions.
When answering a question, most characters are inconsistent and confused. In addition, in your respondent’s world, some things are absolutely obvious and he or she will not think of explaining them. You, as the interviewer, are on the lookout for your reader, viewer, or listener. The reader, viewer or listener must understand everything: he must follow the logic and get acquainted with the terms as he goes along. If you feel that something is missing, ask. Sometimes this “something” isn’t that meaningful right now, and can be added to the text or video later (a term, the person’s full title, an explanatory comment about the situation).

But sometimes it is necessary to ask the interlocutor to give an example right on the spot: about what specific phenomenon he is now telling, where what happened, to find out his attitude toward what happened. So when you notice a gap in the answer, ask a clarifying question: “were you just talking about an ordinary worm or an unusual worm?”, “remind me, when did it happen?”, “did it hurt you?”, “so Edward Cullen is a vampire?!”

Important: Clarifying questions most often do not need to be inserted in the final version of the text, the editor does not expect a verbatim transcription of your dialogue, but full and coherent answers of the respondent.
More qualifying questions help to steer the conversation unobtrusively in the right direction: the interviewee switches to this bit of the story and slightly forgets what he was talking about before. He will forget altogether if you start to develop the topic.

Silly questions
Quite a few questions can be classified as stupid if there is no strategy behind them. In other words, stupid questions are irrelevant or meaningless questions that end in a dead end.

You can reach a dead end very quickly, for example, by asking which book influenced a person the most, or by making an abstruse question out of a complex word structure in order to demonstrate your level of intelligence, but in the end confuse the interlocutor and get lost in the process.

Another obvious dead end-even a “brick” sign you shouldn’t drive under-is an appeal to everyday morality at the moment the question is uttered. For example: “Professor, a rat is a living creature, after all, how can you experiment on it?” What do you think the professor will say?
You can convince yourself all you want that any question will help you uncover the character, but it won’t. So before the interview, take a critical look at your questions – whether they are obvious and lead nowhere, too general, too provocative for your irritable interlocutor, or ones that he has already answered a thousand times.

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Now a little theory, but not much at all.

Types of interviews

• Portrait interviews, when the main purpose is to show a character and personal qualities of the interviewee, his attitude towards something, most often such interviews are done with famous people;
• Analytical when the interviewer and the interviewee are looking at a certain issue from different angles, for example, the impact of parasites on the human nervous system;
• Problematic – these are constructed around a high-profile public event, a striking example is the debate of politicians before the elections in a live broadcast;
• Informative: when it is important to get only facts and figures, for example, the number of victims, the strategy of rescue services, etc.

Of course, all these types of interviews can overlap. No one is forcing the journalist to work within rigid limits. Moreover, an interview is first of all a set of techniques, the more effective the journalist is.

Where to look for an interview subject
Let’s imagine that you have never been interviewed before, but you want to. Pay attention to what you know or at least what you are interested in: it could be computer games and board games, it could be contemporary art, it could be science in general. That’s a good enough starting point.

Keep it in your head. It remains to find a hero and formulate the topic more precisely. A qualified interlocutor who can speak coherently and who wants to talk to a journalist is already half the battle of the interview.

Surf the Internet
Next, it is important to narrow down your search. At this stage it is useful to look through thematic pubs and Telegram-channels: it is likely that you will find something of value. Maybe you’ll see someone working on a potentially useful project, maybe you’ll discover a trend that you can then discuss with an expert, maybe you’ll come across a problem.

If you have found something, but you realize that a conversation with one person will be too short or will not reflect the topic in its entirety, you can make the material from monologues – essentially, it is several interviews on the same topic.
That is, you find people who have something in common: a rare profession, a common research topic, social status, physiological characteristics, a similar past, an unusual experience, etc. – you ask them roughly the same questions, then you remove your questions from the text, edit, and make it look as if each character had written a first-person letter of revelation.

But back to the classic interview. Let’s say you want to do an interview with scientists. First of all, go to the popular science posters. There you can find both the subject and the hero. If you want younger heroes, there are many higher education institutions in which students talk about each other.

What can I do in narrowly-specialized publics? If it’s a poster, you can find the hero and the theme right away. But in 90% of the cases, the theme will sound boring to non-specialists. But the hero may be appropriate.
Then you type in his name and read his scientific papers, watch his lectures on YouTube. Just do not rush to dive deep – run your eyes and decide for yourself whether this person is suitable for your media (say, there is “The Knife”, N+1, “Schrodinger’s Cat”, “Popular Mechanics” – they all write about science, but each in its own way).

Then make a note of roughly what you will be talking to your hero about. Don’t prepare questions until you and your hero have agreed on a conversation. It may happen that he will not answer you for one reason or another, and you will waste your time and energy.

Sometimes the opposite happens: the topic is interesting, and the hero doesn’t fit, or doesn’t exist at all – let’s say you just learned that the bacteria that live in your intestines can make you eat a cheeseburger. Then you realize you need to talk to a microbiologist.

When you find the hero, all you have to do is contact him or her. If the person isn’t on social media, his or her email is definitely listed on the website of the university where he or she works. If not, write to the school’s press office and ask for the person’s e-mail address.

Don’t be afraid that the potential hero of the interview will refuse you. In the three years I have worked, I have only been rejected once, and that was because the topic was narrow and the person who wrote the work was no longer engaged in it.
If you are still rejected, too, do not worry. Nothing terrible happened. You will find another hero.

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But there is too much information. Open, for example, scientific articles by Tatiana Chernigovskaya – to read them all, and then read and listen to an interview with her, it will take months. So the boundaries should be marked all the same.

Usually I am guided by four principles:

I take the main topics with which my protagonist directly worked;
I choose from these and related topics what’s interesting to me;
I figure out what might resonate with the editors and readers of the particular magazine I am interviewing;
Thinking about what might be interesting and useful to a wider audience.
Where to look for information on the topic of the interview
The first place to look is the website of the university where your protagonist works.

Then open YouTube.

Scientists, like everyone else, are rarely in an information vacuum; often they have given interviews, participated in shows, and given lectures before, all of which are on YouTube. Since lectures usually last more than an hour, you can set the speed to 1.75 and write out only what is relevant to your still approximate topic.
Text interviews are also a useful thing. Scientists rarely do such interviews, but if you are preparing for an interview with an artist or athlete, the chances increase.

The next resource is the hero’s social networks. As I said, they often post information of interest to them within their scientific interests there, scientific jokes which with the right skill can be inserted into a question or at least mentioned to show that you are on topic. And there are also debates in the comments – often a gold mine.

How to work with information.
You’ve more or less decided on the direction of the interview, you’ve opened articles and videos. What’s next? Usually I just copy whole paragraphs that interest me – and put together a multi-page sheet. Sometimes even during the copying there is a question, I write it down under the paragraph, so as not to forget.

Then I reread it all and create questions for the hero. The question is made up of the information you directly worked with, your knowledge from other areas, and your observation. The final look of the question is given by your attitude toward life and yourself: if you’re more of a laughing person, the questions will contain humor one way or another, if serious, then no.

Personally, I prefer to formulate questions in an unconventional and funny way. This has its intention: first, scientists, since we started talking about them, people are smart, most intelligent people have a good sense of humor, and humor often brings people together.
Secondly, the interviewees are asked the same questions over and over again, and they give the same answers in order to save energy. If we want to make the interview special, different from others, this chain must be broken. The easiest way to break it is with a crazy image or a crazy comparison. In this case, the person stops, answers in a similar style (not always, but often) and adds something he or she has been thinking about recently in this context – this breaks the pattern and unleashes the imagination. But at the end, I check my questions with an internal scanner – I don’t want to turn the interview into one big joke, and some questions must remain simple and serious.

Thirdly, it is important to me that the readers feel good inside the interview: they should understand the topic of the conversation, get new information, they should not feel like fools against the background of a smart expert and a pro-witted interviewer.
It is great if they can also have a little fun.

But not all heroes are disposed to crazy questions, even if the outwardly absurd thesis is based on logic. However, whether or not a person is disposed can only be established directly at the interview by getting to know the person. Sometimes during a conversation, I would remove all the tinsel from the question, leaving only the essence.

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When you line up questions, you often want to start as vividly as possible to get everyone’s attention at once, but that’s not always appropriate. Sometimes you need to run through basic things with a character, so that readers can then better understand the flow of the conversation. For example, if we’re talking to a physicist about dimensions and space, it’s better to ask him or her right away what dimensions and space are – even if these terms are intuitive, even if you have an excellent grasp of scientific definitions. If you are doing an interview not for a scientific journal, but for a popular science journal, many of its readers do not know the intricacies of the subject and do not need to know.

But let’s move away from the scientific interview a bit. If you have to interview a famous person, go through all the interviews with her you can find. Very soon you will find that the person is asked the same questions, and he himself answers in a similar way. Rejoice.

Bad interviews are your friends. Take all those same questions and spin them around, and think about how you could have presented even that question differently: in a way that would make the person think and answer differently.
Let’s say you notice that the person repeatedly talks with irritation about the lavish illuminations in the city, saying that all that money could be given to a charitable foundation. If you start the question with a sigh: “Oh, how much is being spent on these illuminations, don’t you think? – you get a legitimate answer. Then you spin the question further and realize that if the city doesn’t have lights, the residents probably won’t be in a festive mood.

If you ask, “Do you want people not to have a holiday, only foundation wards to have one?” the person is likely to answer briefly and aggressively. Instead, you can create a hypothetical situation: “If you were in charge of decorating the city for the holidays, how would you allocate the budget with the stipulation that you could let the money that was left over go to charity?” You can then ask a qualifying question about how to create a holiday for all of the town’s residents without depriving them of the joy.

Spin trivial questions and trivial answers.

And remember that you already know the person’s position, so you have all the power in your hands. You can calculate the conversation for a few moves and, as a consequence, you’ll be able to control it quite well, to lead in the direction you want.
But also remember: you know a lot about the person, but not everything, so do not try to impose their point of view, to convince him that he is the way you imagined it. Even if the interlocutor is a hypocrite, show it through questions – readers and viewers themselves will understand who is in front of them.

During preparation, you can limit yourself to general knowledge and data from your character’s work; you can add questions that the character has not directly touched. Study Russian and foreign scientists who also deal with this topic. To do this, the easiest way is to open the hero’s research paper and to long the list of references. There will be actual foreign authors and names of works. We read these authors, and then they, too, look at the list of references. Then look for scholars who argued with the first authors. This should be done to avoid one-sidedness and make the conversation sharper.

It is also not superfluous to arm yourself with statistics. Look at opinion polls, data on the dynamics of something – it will help you make the issue more interesting and relevant.

Tip: Don’t overdo it: sometimes, in your enthusiasm, you might accidentally insert an answer or ask a too narrowly professional question that your reader doesn’t need an answer to.

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