Obsession with Magic The concept of magic has always fascinated humanity throughout history. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, people have been intrigued by the possibility of harnessing supernatural powers and manipulating the forces of nature. This fascination has led to an obsession with magic, as individuals strive to uncover its secrets and unlock its limitless potential. One of the reasons for the obsession with magic is the allure of the unknown. Magic represents a realm beyond the rational and logical, where anything is possible. This tantalizing prospect captures the imagination of individuals who seek to escape the constraints of ordinary life and explore a world of fantasy and wonder.
Compared to centuries-old soba, somen and udon noodles, ramen is a relatively new arrival on Japan’s culinary scene. Thought to have been brought over by Chinese immigrants after the Meiji restoration in 1868, Tokyo’s first Ramen shop opened in 1910. Ramen, for most Japanese, is a very quick, cheap, practically “fast food” lunch option when you’re not at home.
It s a little funny to me that ramen noodles have taken on such cult status outside of Japan and have become a well appreciated, almost gourmet thing, because they will forever remain in my mind as these quick, cheap eats. I often have leftover roast or poached chicken in the fridge, this is perfect for this or you can start with fresh chicken and poach it to make the stock , along with some slices of carrot and leek or spring onions or regular onion.
This tantalizing prospect captures the imagination of individuals who seek to escape the constraints of ordinary life and explore a world of fantasy and wonder. The notion of wielding extraordinary powers also appeals to our desire for control and mastery over our surroundings. Furthermore, the obsession with magic can stem from a longing for escapism.
Bound To Stay Bound
Booklist - 02/01/2019 Momofuko Ando was distressed to see starving people struggling to find food in post-WWII Osaka. Wanting to find a quick, nutritious resource that was neither expensive nor labor-intensive, Ando became determined to create simple and delicious noodles. His first versions were not successful, as attempt after attempt turned out too crumbly, too sticky, or too lumpy. Resolute, Ando tried again. And again, and again—continually experimenting, revising, refining, adding features, eliminating complications—until he finally achieved a viable product that only needed to be stirred into hot water to create a filling meal. Ramen noodles became an instant sensation, and their popularity continues through today, as generations of college students can attest. This picture book has an appealing design, featuring manga-flavored illustrations and the occasional graphic-novel layout (and be sure to check out the endpapers). This offering goes down easily, whether used to promote diversity, encourage experimentation and perseverance, or spice up a food-themed storytime. - Copyright 2019 Booklist.
School Library Journal - 03/01/2019 K-Gr 3— When Momofuku Ando sees long lines of people waiting for food near his home in Osaka, Japan, shortly after World War II, his dream is born: to create the perfect bowl of noodles to feed hungry communities around the world. Realizing that "the world is peaceful only when everyone has enough to eat," he spends months testing recipes for the ideal noodle soup: tasty, perfectly seasoned, comforting, and preparable "anytime, anywhere." Each attempt at the perfect bowl of soup yields a different result: noodles that are too soggy, too brittle, or too soft. Despite personal and financial setbacks, he keeps the needs of the hungry and disenfranchised always at the center of his mission as he aims to maximize nutrition and nourishment. After trying and failing several times over, his "magic ramen" recipe is finally born: a perfectly fried noodle-broth combination that can be made in minutes by simply adding water. His invention is a success, making ramen a worldwide sensation and recognized household favorite. The author's tribute to one of history's most important inventors is complemented by digital illustrations, which separate well-paced text and add strong visual appeal to this exceptional biography picture book. An afterword is provided, giving readers additional insight into Ando's life and legacy and its connection to food history and popular culture, especially the creation of the widely recognizable Cup Noodles. VERDICT An inspiring story of persistence and an ideal purchase for any collection.– Natalie Romano, Denver Public Library - Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Bibliography: Looking for the sources of Ando’s quotes or a partial list of the materials used in researching and writing Magic Ramen? Download here.
Life can often be monotonous and mundane, filled with routine and responsibilities. Magic offers an enticing alternative to this reality, providing an avenue for individuals to immerse themselves in a world of enchantment and adventure. Through magical tales and stories, people can temporarily leave their troubles behind and embark on extraordinary journeys. Moreover, the obsession with magic can be a manifestation of a deeper yearning for a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Magic often represents a higher power or supernatural force that governs the universe. By exploring and understanding magic, individuals hope to gain insight into the mysteries of existence and discover their place in the grand scheme of things. This search for transcendence drives the obsession with magic, as people seek answers to life's fundamental questions. Nevertheless, the obsession with magic can also have its drawbacks. It can lead to a distorted perception of reality, as individuals become engrossed in a world of illusion and fantasy. The quest for magical powers can overshadow the importance of developing practical skills and knowledge, potentially hindering personal growth and real-world success. Furthermore, the obsession with magic can become all-consuming, leading to a neglect of responsibilities and a detachment from the real world. In conclusion, the obsession with magic arises from the allure of the unknown, the desire for escapism, and the yearning for a sense of purpose. While it can offer a sense of wonder and possibility, it is essential to approach magic with caution and maintain a balance with the practical realities of life. By understanding the underlying motivations for our obsession with magic, we can harness its potential while remaining grounded in reality..
Reviews for "Exploring the Historical Context: The Origins of Magic Obsession"
1. John - 2/5 stars
I found "Obsession with Magic" to be quite disappointing. While the concept of magic can be intriguing, the book took it to an extreme level that became overwhelming and repetitive. I understand that the protagonist's obsession was at the core of the story, but it overshadowed any character development or deeper plotlines. The constant descriptions of magical rituals and spells became tiresome, and I struggled to connect with the characters on any level. The writing style lacked finesse and failed to draw me into the world it was trying to create.
2. Sarah - 1/5 stars
I really did not enjoy "Obsession with Magic." The storyline was convoluted, and it seemed like the author was more interested in showing off their knowledge of different magical practices than in crafting a compelling narrative. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it difficult to care about their struggles or motivations. Additionally, the writing was clunky and filled with unnecessary jargon, making it challenging to follow along. I had high hopes for this book, but it ultimately fell flat for me.
3. Emily - 2/5 stars
"Obsession with Magic" left me feeling frustrated and unfulfilled. The plot had potential, but it became lost amidst the excessive descriptions of magical spells and rituals. The pacing was uneven, with moments of intense action followed by long stretches of tedious detail. The characters were forgettable and lacked any significant growth or development. The ending felt rushed and unsatisfying, leaving too many loose ends. Overall, this book failed to captivate my interest, and I would not recommend it to others.
4. Mark - 2/5 stars
I found "Obsession with Magic" to be a letdown. The storytelling was disjointed and confusing, making it difficult to follow the progression of the plot. The characters were poorly developed, and their actions often felt illogical and inconsistent. The author seemed more concerned with showcasing their knowledge of magic than creating a coherent and engaging story. Additionally, the dialogue felt stilted and unnatural. Overall, this book failed to engage me and left me feeling disappointed.