The book The Fiftieth Gate by Mark Baker emphasizes the importance of merging history and memory to shape our understanding of the world. Baker illustrates how this amalgamation generates significance. History is commonly regarded as a sequential account of indisputable occurrences, whereas memory is personal and can impact the interpretation of these events.
The connection between history and memory and its influence on the present is explored in The Fiftieth Gate, as well as in the Channel Seven documentary "Zero Hour- Disaster at Chernobyl" and the "Anzac Day commemorative Issue" published by the Bulletin on 26th April 2005. These texts highlight how past events and memories shape our world, impacting both individuals and society at large.
All three texts demonstrate the impact of history and memory, leading to a changed
...view on life. The composer, Mark Baker, in the prescribed text, highlights how history and memory influence our perception of the world. Baker's quest for identity enhances the conveyed meanings for the reader.
At the start of his Journey, Baker is symbolically unaware of his parent's identity, as "it always begins in blackness, until the first light illuminates the hidden fragment of memory". He reflects on how both dark and light aspects of his parental memories have shaped his own life, stating, "And I sing them to: sleep my ear parents but do not dream, tomorrow your children will shed your tears, tuck your memories in bed and say goodnight".
Using imagery, Baker illustrates the impact of the Holocaust on himself, his family, and their customs. He describes how his grandfather, Leo, would sit in a corner of his Melbourne living room, encompassed
by imitation German furniture. The memories of his parents are concealed within them, serving as a means to cope with the traumatizing events they experienced. They express a desire to forget the memories they hold. These memories may be distorted due to the heavy burden they carry, as they strive to move forward from the darkness of their past.
Regardless of the reason, Baker faced difficulties due to these memory lapses. He needed to delve into his parents' history to truly comprehend his own identity. He believed that immersing himself in her story was necessary to protect himself from an ominous secret lurking beneath her outward appearance. Only by uncovering his roots and understanding his origins could Baker find enlightenment and transform into a radiant being.
During his quest for self-validation, Baker must confront both the historian and the son in order to convince his parents to "open the gate" and allow their memories to find validation and truth. His desire to uncover his true identity fuels his search for proof. Baker strives to fill in the vague gaps in his parents' memories by relentlessly searching for historical documentation that verifies their recollections, such as the specific date and time of "18th December 1923 at 2pm".
The protagonist's quest for evidence becomes increasingly insatiable to the point where the words of his parents can no longer satisfy him. The process of verification leads him to experience shame as each recollection necessitates confirmation from official records or supporting narratives. The importance of meticulousness is emphasized through the repeated phrase "Details, details. Fecks, Fecks." As the passage unfolds, Baker stumbles upon the testimony of an SS soldier
that vindicates his mother's account, prompting an exclamation of elation, "found something at last... its really true!" This exclamation highlights the responder's recognition of the interplay between history and memory and how historical evidence validates individual remembrance, as expressed by the line "Its perspective I value."
The documentary "Zero Hour- Disaster at Chernobyl" emphasizes the significance of factual evidence and validation regarding the catastrophic event that took place on April 26th, 1986, at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Station. This incident has had profound historical implications, and the documentary aims to depict its history by using reenactments and firsthand testimonies from those who were directly impacted and still face its consequences.
In retelling the event, both history and memory play a significant role. Director Richard Doyalson employs several techniques to depict the essential connection between history and memory. Memory is portrayed through the recollections of the survivors, as one survivor hauntingly recalls, "the sight of my friends who perished, their faces scorched by radiation, amidst the ruins—this image will forever remain etched in my mind".
The inclusion of emotion in the expression and depiction of memories contributes to the development of a deeper and more personal understanding. The recipients of these memories understand that the impact of a disaster persists long after it occurred, affecting survivors mentally and physically. The lingering vividness of their experiences, including what they witnessed and endured, serves as a constant reminder. These memories are deeply ingrained in both their bodies and minds, effectively shaping their personal history.
The video footage demonstrates how the reactor explosion acted as a catalyst for the downfall of the Soviet Union, Communism, and the Cold War.
It reveals historical evidence of these events, while also delving into the history of the Power Station and the factors that led to such a catastrophic incident. Supporting documentation provides factual evidence and insights into the reasons and mechanics behind the disaster, stating that during safety tests, reactor 4 was unable to withstand anything less than 200.
This document may lack emotion even though it is accurate. The composer uses historical documentation and information, such as "10 times the amount of nuclear fuel than Hiroshima," and combines it with historical photographs of affected children. This change in tone helps the audience emotionally connect with those whose lives have been permanently changed, as they say "I will never see my daughter grow up." The Bulletins, Anzac Day Commemorative Issue, is dedicated to honoring the 90th Anniversary of the withdrawal by Britain and its allies.
The issue contains several articles that present different perspectives on the collaboration of history and memory. This particular period in history had a profound impact on Australian culture and continues to be ingrained in the memories of Australian society, both past and future. That is also why there is a strong bond between Australians and Turks, as both nations created their futures in the same place. All the articles offer historical evidence of the significant events that took place on April 25th, 1915, using historical information and photographic verification.
The photographs in this text evoke a powerful and emotional response from the reader. By capturing the faces and individuals of the troops at Gallopoli, the photographs personalize the experience and connect with the reader. Additionally, the imagery of troops wearing the
Australian flag further intensifies the impact for Australian readers. Within the text, there are references to specific places and dates. For example, it mentions that on March 18th, there was a naval assault in the Dardanelle's that ended in disaster. This resulted in the sinking or disabling of one third of the fleet and the loss of 700 men.
The text highlights the importance of memory and its role in presenting an authentic portrayal. It is accompanied by a photograph of the warship, which helps the reader emotionally engage with the events experienced by the troops. The theme of memory permeates throughout, particularly when depicting the impact of war on those who went through it. This is further illustrated by the quote, "if they had an Australian in charge, we might have emerged victorious. I could have returned to you sooner."
The article emphasizes the importance of being aware not only of objective truth but also of the subjective truth of one's own perceptions and their significance in the perceptions of others. It highlights how history and memory are intertwined, revealing how soldiers lived with their memories. As Australians, we have drawn inspiration from their lives, surpassing what their experiences and memories alone would imply. The author contemplates the impact that this place and its story will have on their daughter, acknowledging that the rows of headstones scattered across the peninsula will deeply touch her heart.
Memory and history are intertwined, connecting creators to their social context and influencing their purpose and importance. The two cannot be separated, as memory plays a crucial role in interpretation. The power of history lies in how it is
received through personal communication, allowing us to choose what is relevant to our own experiences. This idea is evident in the texts being discussed, as they integrate history and memory.
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