Aki say: Nerd

A recent newspaper article claimed that ‘uncool’ is the new cool. They were referring to the recent success of Glee, the U.S. television series, now in its third season. The show revolves around a U.S. High School Glee Club, which is a singing group that anyone can join. Traditionally considered to be one the least cool groups to join in High School, often consisting of students rejected by other groups. The TV series has really sparked a world-wide interest in all things relating to music and performance. Club nights such as Hairbrushheroes in London’s Camden has created a whole new venue for future Susan Boyle hopefuls. What we have also seen is a very much increased interest in another nerdy activity—reading. Book salons, discussions and traditional book clubs are popping up in many social circles.
Literary Death Match is a perfect example of how to make reading accessible, sexy and above all fun. Possibly the most lively book event you will ever come across, it has grown into an international literary phenomenon taking place in many major cities, from Toronto to Sydney, and New York to London.

The idea of this event is to gather four authors and have them read seven minutes from their work. Then local judges and the audience criticise their work. It is a kind of literary X-factor with audience participation encouraged. On a grander scale, the Hay Festival that originated in a sleepy Welsh town (Hay-on-Wye) has grown to an international event, now taking place in such diverse locations as Kerala and the Maldives.

We are constantly bombarded with the latest must-have technological gadgets. Kindle, iPad and the soon to be launched Play Book by Blackberry are offering new ways to consume literature. However, can these must-have gadgets replace the experience of the ‘real’?

The reality that we see in magazines and media is starting to seem more and more distant and unreal. The growing interest in nerdy, bookish activities is a clear indication that we want to be connected to a real experience. Using technology is just a means to deliver content. Book clubs and Glee-inspired events deliver an authentic experience.

www.fox.com/glee
www.hayfestival.com
www.literarydeathmatch.com
www.hairbrushheroes.com