It's that time of the year again. As Christmas sets in, the holiday cheer will eventually grab a hold of me too.
But for now, I must mention, good ol St. Nick will be quite pleased, yet a bit sad this year. What, with the EU and those Copenhagen people coming down hard on everything that moves to see their carbon footprint.
The new Santa Sleigh, as I imagine will, first and foremost, feature GPS. There's also the addition of ABS with EBD, and Launch Control! Two of his beloved reindeer will be replaced by a pair of electric motors hooked up to a battery pack (in the middle of the sled to ensure optimum weight distribution). And, once he reaches cruising speed over the Atlantic, four of his reindeer just stop running, to improve efficiency. All of this happens within a few milliseconds, so he'll never know which ones were slacking cos they're right back in an instant when he gets on the power!
With the building global population, you'd think his gift hold had to be hu-ge! But that's not entirely true. You see, for all the children born, yes, but at the same time, his naughty list just keeps growing exponentially. So then, to take care of those demands, this sleigh uses a dual chamber hold (again, to improve weight distribution) - a gift hold and a coal hold. So everyone gets their just desserts this year then!
It's so very different, before the oil crisis Santa used to say, and I know he loved it, "On Lancer & Cutlass & Challenger & Charger! On Mustang & Cuda & Ranger & Viper!". Then, and until now, he also dearly loves Dasher & Dancer & Prancer & Vixen & Comet & Cupid & Donder & Blitzen. Although in the end, two of em are about to get the sack..
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Monday, November 21, 2011
Santa Lucia
Santa Lucia, a classic, by Enrico Caruso. Art for the ears indeed.
The tune is probably very identifiable to Tom & Jerry fans. Then again, most classical tunes are familiar because a lot of us have watched them for so long.
A song can take you away to a different place. It may be good or it may be bad. It may bring back memories, or it may just clear your mind and take you away, and create a world right there in your mind. A scenic place, full of serenity. That is what it does to me.
When I first heard the original composition by Enrico Caruso in it's entirety, I was whisked away to scenes of Venice, amidst the canals. I watched in my mind's eye the scenery, the intricate craftsmanship and detail in the construction. I admire the way the sunlight reflects the magnificence of the years gone by, it's cold times, and through those, I see remnants of such great historic magnitude.
My Venetian boat floats gently, deeper into the cityscape. I feel relaxed. At peace.
Caruso's voice echoes in my head, and as it climbs during the chorus, suddenly the scene just changes. In the blink of an eye, the city is nowhere to be scene, the canals have been replaced by a winding stretch of tarmac, and Venice has suddenly transformed into Italian countryside. Most importantly, my gondolier is now a Ferrari. I can't tell which one it is, because at those speeds, all I can think of is keeping that superfast work of art on the road, lest it turn into one of the most expensive pieces of scenery ever. The whistles and screams from the engine tells me I'm sitting in front of a turbocharged V8. It's a Ferrari F40, F50 maybe.. For once, I don't care! I don't care if it's a 288GTO, an F40 or an F50! I don't care if I have 400 horses or over 500! All I know is I'm screaming up a very scenic mountain pass, yet I can't take a break to look at the scenery, lest, as I said earlier, I become a part of it. The fresh countryside air fills my lungs, and I breathe rather deeply, and even more rapidly, as my heart pumps faster, just like that big V8 behind me! Bliss.
And then the song's over. Dream while the music's still playing. I'll keep doing that..
The tune is probably very identifiable to Tom & Jerry fans. Then again, most classical tunes are familiar because a lot of us have watched them for so long.
A song can take you away to a different place. It may be good or it may be bad. It may bring back memories, or it may just clear your mind and take you away, and create a world right there in your mind. A scenic place, full of serenity. That is what it does to me.
When I first heard the original composition by Enrico Caruso in it's entirety, I was whisked away to scenes of Venice, amidst the canals. I watched in my mind's eye the scenery, the intricate craftsmanship and detail in the construction. I admire the way the sunlight reflects the magnificence of the years gone by, it's cold times, and through those, I see remnants of such great historic magnitude.
My Venetian boat floats gently, deeper into the cityscape. I feel relaxed. At peace.
Caruso's voice echoes in my head, and as it climbs during the chorus, suddenly the scene just changes. In the blink of an eye, the city is nowhere to be scene, the canals have been replaced by a winding stretch of tarmac, and Venice has suddenly transformed into Italian countryside. Most importantly, my gondolier is now a Ferrari. I can't tell which one it is, because at those speeds, all I can think of is keeping that superfast work of art on the road, lest it turn into one of the most expensive pieces of scenery ever. The whistles and screams from the engine tells me I'm sitting in front of a turbocharged V8. It's a Ferrari F40, F50 maybe.. For once, I don't care! I don't care if it's a 288GTO, an F40 or an F50! I don't care if I have 400 horses or over 500! All I know is I'm screaming up a very scenic mountain pass, yet I can't take a break to look at the scenery, lest, as I said earlier, I become a part of it. The fresh countryside air fills my lungs, and I breathe rather deeply, and even more rapidly, as my heart pumps faster, just like that big V8 behind me! Bliss.
And then the song's over. Dream while the music's still playing. I'll keep doing that..
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Varied Intentions
It's funny how every single person perceives every single thing so differently. I, for one, am tired of explaining myself over and over again. It's not just about taste, or how subjective looks are. It's the very reason, the purpose for which you want to, or wish to attain, or procure the object of your desire.
I intend very strongly to get myself the Hyosung Comet GT250 quarter-litre sportsbike. Compared to the fuel-injected single pot Pulsar I ride, it has 50% more power, slightly more torque, but more importantly, a whole extra cylinder, in a V to top it all off. My mother asked me - Where would I ride it? What would I do with 30 horsepower? Where can I go fast? The list of questions is endless..
I know I cannot ride fast everywhere. I also know I'll never reach half my top speed 90% of the time I ride her. But the way I see it is, I move 50% faster everywhere. When I start her up, I travel from my parking spot to my exit gate at twice the speed. It's the thrill, not the practicality! I don't want to go 150 kilometres an hour! What I want, is to hit 40 kph instantly, and hear the scream of a glorious twin cylinder sportsbike that I have craved for so long, something that Indian bikes so far have lacked abysmally. The Ninja 250R is too expensive for me. I've had my go at it. I've thoroughly enjoyed it. In fact, it made my Christmas last year with it's screams tearing through my ears in the middle of the afternoon as I ripped open that throttle. Hell, it made me even want to go out and get one! But I just couldn't!
I also said that if I ever got a Ducati superbike (which in all probability would be the '05 Desmo RR..) I would, almost certainly, take her out twice a year. The rest of the time, I'd stare longingly at her, appreciating the fact that she is indeed one of the finest works of Italian art. Of course, this would be after I'd somehow managed to get her up the stairs, through my house, and into my bedroom. She doesn't deserve roads like we have. I'd protect her like my little baby, and would feed her and clean her all she needed. That's just how it is.
It's not about how fast I can go... It's about how much faster I can go fast!
I intend very strongly to get myself the Hyosung Comet GT250 quarter-litre sportsbike. Compared to the fuel-injected single pot Pulsar I ride, it has 50% more power, slightly more torque, but more importantly, a whole extra cylinder, in a V to top it all off. My mother asked me - Where would I ride it? What would I do with 30 horsepower? Where can I go fast? The list of questions is endless..
I know I cannot ride fast everywhere. I also know I'll never reach half my top speed 90% of the time I ride her. But the way I see it is, I move 50% faster everywhere. When I start her up, I travel from my parking spot to my exit gate at twice the speed. It's the thrill, not the practicality! I don't want to go 150 kilometres an hour! What I want, is to hit 40 kph instantly, and hear the scream of a glorious twin cylinder sportsbike that I have craved for so long, something that Indian bikes so far have lacked abysmally. The Ninja 250R is too expensive for me. I've had my go at it. I've thoroughly enjoyed it. In fact, it made my Christmas last year with it's screams tearing through my ears in the middle of the afternoon as I ripped open that throttle. Hell, it made me even want to go out and get one! But I just couldn't!
I also said that if I ever got a Ducati superbike (which in all probability would be the '05 Desmo RR..) I would, almost certainly, take her out twice a year. The rest of the time, I'd stare longingly at her, appreciating the fact that she is indeed one of the finest works of Italian art. Of course, this would be after I'd somehow managed to get her up the stairs, through my house, and into my bedroom. She doesn't deserve roads like we have. I'd protect her like my little baby, and would feed her and clean her all she needed. That's just how it is.
It's not about how fast I can go... It's about how much faster I can go fast!
Monday, November 14, 2011
The Flavor Battle
The same amount of wine, more or less, in so many different bottles. Each with a different kick. Each of these has either aged gracefully, or evolved, or was created as a revolutionary new idea. Either way, you can be sure they will be extremely fun to experience. We have Japanese, Austrian and local varieties. Which one I prefer, I think I know the answer.
The first of these showed up as a 250ml sample. Well dressed bottle, with two chambers, and all the bells and whistles. The kick was by far the best - over 32 units of it at 11000 swigs! And what a great after taste too! Leaves you longing for more! If you have someone's else, you're bound to consider saving up and buying one yourself! But the price, dear God, was nowhere near what I expected. I guess that's the price you pay for that extra oomph. I'm not one to shell out over 3 lakh for one of those.
Technically, the first of these showed up ages ago, but who knew what to expect when the guys handing it to you couldn't tell a grape from a pumpkin. And apart from the fact that the Koreans had appointed a very Italian lay out, it had a good kick too! 30 at 10500 swigs! Though the content was thought too much for us in this country by the self-appointed guardian brains, it was tinkered down to 27. Also, at 1.8 lakh, it was a right ol deal! I fret not, because it's coming back very soon!
Then came the one with the fancy wing logo, another 250ml one this. Just one big bottle, but a fine looking one at that. The kick? 26 at 8500 swigs. I haven't had a sample yet, surprisingly, so I'll save my banter for once I have truly felt what it has to offer. I'm absolutely sure it will go down smooth though. 1.8 lakh seems like a good deal then, yeah?
One more up and coming one, made not far away from it's winged competitor is also due to arrive soon. Styled after another iconic creation, it will deliver a similar kick, but with the contents in a two-chambered bottle, it should be a completely different experience. I, for one, can't wait!
The Austrians have decided to go 200ml, but with a kick giving 25 at about 10000 swigs, and add to the fact that it isn't trying to look like everyone else, it knows what it is, and it surely knows where it's coming from. What a heritage behind it! I'd love to have one personally, and sample it where the others would probably never make it. At about 1.4 lakh a pop, it would make a good option!
The local flavor never ceases to amaze me. An unusual bottle of 220ml gives me a kick of 21 at 8500 swigs. But the list of goodies you get is bettered by none of the above. I have one and I can honestly say it could do with a LOT more, but at the same time, it has one thing the others fail to impress me with - it shows me the light; and it makes sure I see it!
I'd love to have a quick go at each of em and tell you exactly how apart they actually are, day and night. But then there's the idea of mixing drinks - it may not taste like what you expect, but it sure is a lot of fun!
Of course, some would prefer the vintage variety at a similar price! You do end up drinking twice as much for a similar kick, but that has it's own pleasure as well..
Kawasaki Ninja 250R
248.8cc liquid cooled FI parallel twin
32.5bhp / 11000rpm
22.0Nm / 8200rpm
Rs. 3,00,000
Hyosung Comet GT250
249.0cc air+oil-cooled FI V-twin
30.0bhp / 10500rpm
20.9Nm / 7500rpm
Rs. 1,80,000
Honda CBR 250R
249.4cc liquid cooled FI single
25.8bhp / 8500rpm
22.6Nm / 7000rpm
Rs. 1,55,000
Rs. 1,80,000 (with ABS)
Suzuki GW250
249.0cc liquid cooled FI parallel twin
26.0bhp / 8500rpm
24.2Nm / 7000rpm
Price TBC (Rs. 2,00,000 estimated)
KTM Duke 200
200.0cc liquid cooled FI single
25.5bhp / 10000rpm
20.0Nm / 8000rpm
Price TBC (Rs. 1,40,000 estimated)
Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-i
219.9cc air+oil-cooled carb single
20.8bhp / 8500rpm (19.8bhp FI)
19.1Nm / 7500rpm (7000rpm FI)
Rs. 85,000
Royal Enfield Classic 500
499.0cc air cooled FI single
27.2bhp / 5250rpm
41.3Nm / 4000rpm
Rs. 1,50,000
The first of these showed up as a 250ml sample. Well dressed bottle, with two chambers, and all the bells and whistles. The kick was by far the best - over 32 units of it at 11000 swigs! And what a great after taste too! Leaves you longing for more! If you have someone's else, you're bound to consider saving up and buying one yourself! But the price, dear God, was nowhere near what I expected. I guess that's the price you pay for that extra oomph. I'm not one to shell out over 3 lakh for one of those.
Technically, the first of these showed up ages ago, but who knew what to expect when the guys handing it to you couldn't tell a grape from a pumpkin. And apart from the fact that the Koreans had appointed a very Italian lay out, it had a good kick too! 30 at 10500 swigs! Though the content was thought too much for us in this country by the self-appointed guardian brains, it was tinkered down to 27. Also, at 1.8 lakh, it was a right ol deal! I fret not, because it's coming back very soon!
Then came the one with the fancy wing logo, another 250ml one this. Just one big bottle, but a fine looking one at that. The kick? 26 at 8500 swigs. I haven't had a sample yet, surprisingly, so I'll save my banter for once I have truly felt what it has to offer. I'm absolutely sure it will go down smooth though. 1.8 lakh seems like a good deal then, yeah?
One more up and coming one, made not far away from it's winged competitor is also due to arrive soon. Styled after another iconic creation, it will deliver a similar kick, but with the contents in a two-chambered bottle, it should be a completely different experience. I, for one, can't wait!
The Austrians have decided to go 200ml, but with a kick giving 25 at about 10000 swigs, and add to the fact that it isn't trying to look like everyone else, it knows what it is, and it surely knows where it's coming from. What a heritage behind it! I'd love to have one personally, and sample it where the others would probably never make it. At about 1.4 lakh a pop, it would make a good option!
The local flavor never ceases to amaze me. An unusual bottle of 220ml gives me a kick of 21 at 8500 swigs. But the list of goodies you get is bettered by none of the above. I have one and I can honestly say it could do with a LOT more, but at the same time, it has one thing the others fail to impress me with - it shows me the light; and it makes sure I see it!
I'd love to have a quick go at each of em and tell you exactly how apart they actually are, day and night. But then there's the idea of mixing drinks - it may not taste like what you expect, but it sure is a lot of fun!
Of course, some would prefer the vintage variety at a similar price! You do end up drinking twice as much for a similar kick, but that has it's own pleasure as well..
Kawasaki Ninja 250R
248.8cc liquid cooled FI parallel twin
32.5bhp / 11000rpm
22.0Nm / 8200rpm
Rs. 3,00,000
Hyosung Comet GT250
249.0cc air+oil-cooled FI V-twin
30.0bhp / 10500rpm
20.9Nm / 7500rpm
Rs. 1,80,000
Honda CBR 250R
249.4cc liquid cooled FI single
25.8bhp / 8500rpm
22.6Nm / 7000rpm
Rs. 1,55,000
Rs. 1,80,000 (with ABS)
Suzuki GW250
249.0cc liquid cooled FI parallel twin
26.0bhp / 8500rpm
24.2Nm / 7000rpm
Price TBC (Rs. 2,00,000 estimated)
KTM Duke 200
200.0cc liquid cooled FI single
25.5bhp / 10000rpm
20.0Nm / 8000rpm
Price TBC (Rs. 1,40,000 estimated)
Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-i
219.9cc air+oil-cooled carb single
20.8bhp / 8500rpm (19.8bhp FI)
19.1Nm / 7500rpm (7000rpm FI)
Rs. 85,000
Royal Enfield Classic 500
499.0cc air cooled FI single
27.2bhp / 5250rpm
41.3Nm / 4000rpm
Rs. 1,50,000
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Hello
I don't know who you are.
Just like you don't know who I am.
But I know who I am.
I just don't know
if you know who you are.
Just like you don't know who I am.
But I know who I am.
I just don't know
if you know who you are.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Time as we know it
The weirdest thing had me thinking late a few nights ago.
I read somewhere that since the sun, as a star, is past a certain age, each consecutive day is approximately 1 second shorter than the one before it. So, technically, in 86,400 days, we'd miss one whole day. But before that day arrives, 43,200 days into the future, hell, 7,200 days into the future, won't we notice the sun setting at 4 in the evening?
Of course, 1:30 am was too late to be mentally juggling multiples of 3,600 so I fell asleep with a rather confused look on my face.
I read somewhere that since the sun, as a star, is past a certain age, each consecutive day is approximately 1 second shorter than the one before it. So, technically, in 86,400 days, we'd miss one whole day. But before that day arrives, 43,200 days into the future, hell, 7,200 days into the future, won't we notice the sun setting at 4 in the evening?
Of course, 1:30 am was too late to be mentally juggling multiples of 3,600 so I fell asleep with a rather confused look on my face.
Monday, September 5, 2011
And then came the wind..
The wind takes a few,
the Earth holds onto some..
Some fly away..
Some fall to the ground..
Through the heat of summer,
monsoon showers, and cold winters..
Some are picked up,
and become a perfect skeleton amidst a book..
Some lay strewn, laid out to die
turning into fossils as a proof of life..
They're all the same..
Some change color..
They all age..
They all want to fly high,
and be carried far..
All of them exist..
Some of them live..
Like peas in a pod we aren't,
like leaves of a tree we are..
the Earth holds onto some..
Some fly away..
Some fall to the ground..
Through the heat of summer,
monsoon showers, and cold winters..
Some are picked up,
and become a perfect skeleton amidst a book..
Some lay strewn, laid out to die
turning into fossils as a proof of life..
They're all the same..
Some change color..
They all age..
They all want to fly high,
and be carried far..
All of them exist..
Some of them live..
Like peas in a pod we aren't,
like leaves of a tree we are..
Friday, August 26, 2011
Grow up
Teacher in a class:
Little Billy, what would you like to be when you grow up?
Billy:
I wanna be a fireman, just like my Dad..
Teacher:
Very good! Little Sammy, what about you?
Sammy:
I want to be make buildings, just like my father.
Teacher:
Very nice! How about you little Jimmy?
Jimmy:
I wanna be racing driver!
Teacher:
Is you Dad a racing driver?
Jimmy:
No, my dad is an asshole!
Hahaha.
Little Billy, what would you like to be when you grow up?
Billy:
I wanna be a fireman, just like my Dad..
Teacher:
Very good! Little Sammy, what about you?
Sammy:
I want to be make buildings, just like my father.
Teacher:
Very nice! How about you little Jimmy?
Jimmy:
I wanna be racing driver!
Teacher:
Is you Dad a racing driver?
Jimmy:
No, my dad is an asshole!
Hahaha.
The Call
It started out as a feeling
Which then grew into a hope
Which then turned into a quiet thought
Which then turned into a quiet word
And then that word grew louder and louder
'til it was a battle cry
I'll come back
When you call me
No need to say goodbye
Just because everything's changing
Doesn't mean it's never
been this way before
All you can do is try to know
who your friends are
As you head off to the war
Pick a star on the dark horizon
And follow the light
You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye
You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye
Now we're back to the beginning
It's just a feeling and no one knows yet
But just because they can't feel it too
Doesn't mean that you have to forget
Let your memories grow stronger and stronger
'til they're before your eyes
You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say good bye
You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say good bye..
---
Regina Spektor
"The Call"
OST The Chronicles Of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Watch on YouTube
Which then grew into a hope
Which then turned into a quiet thought
Which then turned into a quiet word
And then that word grew louder and louder
'til it was a battle cry
I'll come back
When you call me
No need to say goodbye
Just because everything's changing
Doesn't mean it's never
been this way before
All you can do is try to know
who your friends are
As you head off to the war
Pick a star on the dark horizon
And follow the light
You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye
You'll come back
When it's over
No need to say good bye
Now we're back to the beginning
It's just a feeling and no one knows yet
But just because they can't feel it too
Doesn't mean that you have to forget
Let your memories grow stronger and stronger
'til they're before your eyes
You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say good bye
You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say good bye..
---
Regina Spektor
"The Call"
OST The Chronicles Of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Watch on YouTube
Monday, July 4, 2011
Simplify
Henry David Thoreau said, "Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify."
While at first I didn't agree with his statement in it's entirety, the fact that it was from one of my more trusted personalities made me think about it.
I then said, "Leave the detail for car design. Live and love simply, and wholeheartedly.
Yes, we must let details prevail where they will be appreciated, where they will bring joy and that sense of discovery, however small.. Those special places to hold things in your car. Those unique design elements that very few will notice. But even in these, simplicity maintained enhances their appeal. Elegance, thoroughly understated, and achieved, is far more admirable, in my opinion.
But, when it comes to love; so I didn't get you flowers, I rushed straight from work to your place with my heart in my hands..
While at first I didn't agree with his statement in it's entirety, the fact that it was from one of my more trusted personalities made me think about it.
I then said, "Leave the detail for car design. Live and love simply, and wholeheartedly.
Yes, we must let details prevail where they will be appreciated, where they will bring joy and that sense of discovery, however small.. Those special places to hold things in your car. Those unique design elements that very few will notice. But even in these, simplicity maintained enhances their appeal. Elegance, thoroughly understated, and achieved, is far more admirable, in my opinion.
But, when it comes to love; so I didn't get you flowers, I rushed straight from work to your place with my heart in my hands..
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Rain
Rain. It makes the green come alive. It freshens up your view.. Of course that's only for those who care to look out their window.
Rain. Symbolic for so many things to so many different people. It may bring happiness, happy memories; it may be a reason to go for a walk, to disguise your tears. It brings hope to some, despair to others. Just getting out of a life-changing job interview; or just getting caught on the way to one.. Ah, so many situations, each one will be someone's story.
Rain. White clouds. Grey clouds. Grey skies. Blue skies. Each one reminds me of someone. Songs in the background as I stare out at the window at the rain outside, hurt me, push my imagination into a higher gear. My mind races. Back in time, as well as far into the distant future. Memories come alive. Dreams take shape. Some you shoot down, some you foster. Dark nights. Pouring rain. All you can do is hear it.. Amber streetlights set aglow the downpour, though that's only a hint of what's out there.. Millions of drops crashing down.. I wish upon the invisible stars that they're not anyone's dreams or hopes. No, everyone should have a dream, and hope. Because without them, you'd rather be another drop in the ocean. I choose to be the drop that falls in the desert. I may evaporate in an instant, but if I've helped trigger life, my purpose has fulfilled. Desert rains have that extra effect. Like an icecream man just happening to come by on a hot summer's day. Let the rain pour. Let the rain come down. Wash our troubles away.
Rain. Take me away to my dream. I walk on thoughts. I dream. I dreamwalk. Reality is behind me. Just Utopia lies ahead. I see clearly. Only in my dreams do I see clearly.. Even in the rain I see you.. I know it's got to be you. I believe.. I will walk through it all. But only if I see you there. Take shelter under the tree if you must. But I shall arrive drenched as ever. From the very first drop, I wished for an unending shower. I look forward. Drench me. Drown me. Keep me.
Rain..
Rain. Symbolic for so many things to so many different people. It may bring happiness, happy memories; it may be a reason to go for a walk, to disguise your tears. It brings hope to some, despair to others. Just getting out of a life-changing job interview; or just getting caught on the way to one.. Ah, so many situations, each one will be someone's story.
Rain. White clouds. Grey clouds. Grey skies. Blue skies. Each one reminds me of someone. Songs in the background as I stare out at the window at the rain outside, hurt me, push my imagination into a higher gear. My mind races. Back in time, as well as far into the distant future. Memories come alive. Dreams take shape. Some you shoot down, some you foster. Dark nights. Pouring rain. All you can do is hear it.. Amber streetlights set aglow the downpour, though that's only a hint of what's out there.. Millions of drops crashing down.. I wish upon the invisible stars that they're not anyone's dreams or hopes. No, everyone should have a dream, and hope. Because without them, you'd rather be another drop in the ocean. I choose to be the drop that falls in the desert. I may evaporate in an instant, but if I've helped trigger life, my purpose has fulfilled. Desert rains have that extra effect. Like an icecream man just happening to come by on a hot summer's day. Let the rain pour. Let the rain come down. Wash our troubles away.
Rain. Take me away to my dream. I walk on thoughts. I dream. I dreamwalk. Reality is behind me. Just Utopia lies ahead. I see clearly. Only in my dreams do I see clearly.. Even in the rain I see you.. I know it's got to be you. I believe.. I will walk through it all. But only if I see you there. Take shelter under the tree if you must. But I shall arrive drenched as ever. From the very first drop, I wished for an unending shower. I look forward. Drench me. Drown me. Keep me.
Rain..
Monday, May 16, 2011
Stance
The year is 1988. A lone tree stands. Growing each day. Taller and stronger. Summer and the rain, scorching heat, flooding showers - it has seen them all. Staring at it every morning, taking in it's beauty, it's serenity, I feel happy, content, at peace.
Everytime leaves grow afresh, a different green; and everytime they're old, another shade of green altogether. I watch. Years, decades go by. The tree stands tall and full. Home to hundreds of insects and birds. The tallest tree as far as the eye can see. so many more surround it. Nearby housing grows around for the rat race. The monsoon winds cause a sway, that stirs discomfort. People fear that which gives them shelter. They begin to doubt. Society plagues the mind. Nature can only handle so much.
The year is 2011. A lone tree stands. A carcass of what it used to be. My example of the plague of society encroaching upon Mother Nature's greatest subjects.
How I wish this was only about that tree..
Everytime leaves grow afresh, a different green; and everytime they're old, another shade of green altogether. I watch. Years, decades go by. The tree stands tall and full. Home to hundreds of insects and birds. The tallest tree as far as the eye can see. so many more surround it. Nearby housing grows around for the rat race. The monsoon winds cause a sway, that stirs discomfort. People fear that which gives them shelter. They begin to doubt. Society plagues the mind. Nature can only handle so much.
The year is 2011. A lone tree stands. A carcass of what it used to be. My example of the plague of society encroaching upon Mother Nature's greatest subjects.
How I wish this was only about that tree..
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Clarity Potion
Interesting topic came up between my colleague and me the other day. He asked me why would someone pay such a premium for imported cars - especially the Swedish and German brands. A multitude of thoughts crowded my brain all of a sudden, and the deluge poured forth - part anger, part frustration and for pure clarity.
Most Europeans have the duty-of-care aspect inbuilt in their regular functioning. They will hold doors open, wait for someone faster to cross first, or simply, take care to do their job to as perfect an extent as possible. In simple words, attention to detail - what we Indians seem to lack big time.
As I have noticed, Indians need to be paid to pay attention. A supervisor is only required because the workers, apart from lazing and slacking off, won't bother one bit to maintain any sort of standard - forget consistency. This is why "phoren maal" is always preferred. The "chalta hai" attitude is exactly what is holding us back. People argue over the points that we are not a "backward country" but a "developing nation".
There is a difference between the two terms, the latter meaning those who have seen the light, and are on their way of change for the better.
He said, "Ok, let's suppose Tata makes a "premium car" with the exact features as a Volvo S80. Wouldn't it cost less than half as much?"
I said, "Sure it would. And after all I've said about quality and consistency and attention to detail, this is what would happen in the event of an accident -
in a Volvo, I would be sure that the car would drop it's speed drastically upon detecting the oncoming idiot, the safety belt pretensioners would kick in and hug me gently, but tightly into the soft leather seat; the supplemental restraint airbag system would activate in it's dual stages and prevent any sort of major injury whatsoever. I would walk out unscathed, but slightly shaken.
in a Tata, I would brake in panic after realising there's an idiot headed the wrong way. The wheels would lock and the car would skid, devoid of all traction from those pathetic tyres. The impact would not activate the crumple zones, but rather, send the front bumper through the radiator, and consequentially through the dashboard, impaling me, and puncturing my liver. While all of this is happening, the seat belt would violently hold me in place by my neck, nearly decapitating me, or at best, leave me with a deep cut wound on my neck. Suddenly, the cigarette lighter flies out and takes out my eye.
There is the difference: Case one - the car saves me. Case two - the car kills me.
End of discussion, followed by painful laughter as the truth.
Most Europeans have the duty-of-care aspect inbuilt in their regular functioning. They will hold doors open, wait for someone faster to cross first, or simply, take care to do their job to as perfect an extent as possible. In simple words, attention to detail - what we Indians seem to lack big time.
As I have noticed, Indians need to be paid to pay attention. A supervisor is only required because the workers, apart from lazing and slacking off, won't bother one bit to maintain any sort of standard - forget consistency. This is why "phoren maal" is always preferred. The "chalta hai" attitude is exactly what is holding us back. People argue over the points that we are not a "backward country" but a "developing nation".
There is a difference between the two terms, the latter meaning those who have seen the light, and are on their way of change for the better.
He said, "Ok, let's suppose Tata makes a "premium car" with the exact features as a Volvo S80. Wouldn't it cost less than half as much?"
I said, "Sure it would. And after all I've said about quality and consistency and attention to detail, this is what would happen in the event of an accident -
in a Volvo, I would be sure that the car would drop it's speed drastically upon detecting the oncoming idiot, the safety belt pretensioners would kick in and hug me gently, but tightly into the soft leather seat; the supplemental restraint airbag system would activate in it's dual stages and prevent any sort of major injury whatsoever. I would walk out unscathed, but slightly shaken.
in a Tata, I would brake in panic after realising there's an idiot headed the wrong way. The wheels would lock and the car would skid, devoid of all traction from those pathetic tyres. The impact would not activate the crumple zones, but rather, send the front bumper through the radiator, and consequentially through the dashboard, impaling me, and puncturing my liver. While all of this is happening, the seat belt would violently hold me in place by my neck, nearly decapitating me, or at best, leave me with a deep cut wound on my neck. Suddenly, the cigarette lighter flies out and takes out my eye.
There is the difference: Case one - the car saves me. Case two - the car kills me.
End of discussion, followed by painful laughter as the truth.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
I learned something today
There's so much we can learn from automobiles. Everytime I see a car, or drive something new for the first time, there are so many things I realise, if not learn.
Like a good suspension system, we should be independent, and learn to deal with the bumpy bits in our life by ourselves.
And like HillAssist, we should be able to deal with life's ups and downs, and the bits in between. We should find a balance that gets us through these situations comfortably.
We should be dynamic, like a traction control system, and learn to deal with changing situations to our advantage, and never experience loss of control.
We should focus on the direction we wish to take for our lives. Like a good steering system, we should have understeer and oversteer in control, and make the required effort, and then let everything just grab the intended line.
Sometimes, to jump further, you need to take a few steps back. Just don't get stuck where you didn't want to be in the first place. Cars come with a reverse gear, and some even come with a reverse camera!
The grass is usually always greener on the other side. Rest assured, most of the times in a good car, the front seat is just as comfortable as the back seat.
It doesn't matter how much you shine when you're standing still. Just like it doesn't matter what your wheel size is. In the end, power and torque get you ahead, not blinged out wheels and fat tyres.
Don't assume that more is always better, and never underestimate yourself. You may have 400 horsepower while someone else may have 500. But if you make that at 5500 revs and the other guy's comes in at 9000, you're surely gonna have a good and happy head start, while he's left frustrated, waiting for it all to build up and eventually kick in.
With great power comes great responsibility. There's no use having an engine making a thousand horsepower if you can't find a gearbox that can take it and put it to good use.
Always keep your guard up in questionable situations. A laminated windshield will not shatter in the event of a direct hit. Some cars like Volvo's S80, even come with laminated side windows.
You don't need eyes in the back of your head. Just glance back every now and then to ascertain your position before assuming anything. Objects in the rear view mirror may be closer than they appear.
Take time to pay attention to the small details, and don't rely on just the big picture. Even an airbag won't deploy if your seat belt isn't fastened.
Keep your choices vast and enjoy the different gifts of life. Like a good audio system, enjoy different kinds of music. Be it the radio, or a multi-disc changer.
Don't get too excited when presented with something you've waited for for a while. That's why launch control keeps your revs and tyres in check. You don't wanna meet a great road and lose out on the fun because of a silly mistake right at the start.
Like tyre pressure, keep your blood pressure in check. This will lead to more efficiency and a smoother ride.
And most importantly, like a good engine layout, always have your heart in the right place.
Remember, there's always someone waiting for you. So ride/drive safe.
Like a good suspension system, we should be independent, and learn to deal with the bumpy bits in our life by ourselves.
And like HillAssist, we should be able to deal with life's ups and downs, and the bits in between. We should find a balance that gets us through these situations comfortably.
We should be dynamic, like a traction control system, and learn to deal with changing situations to our advantage, and never experience loss of control.
We should focus on the direction we wish to take for our lives. Like a good steering system, we should have understeer and oversteer in control, and make the required effort, and then let everything just grab the intended line.
Sometimes, to jump further, you need to take a few steps back. Just don't get stuck where you didn't want to be in the first place. Cars come with a reverse gear, and some even come with a reverse camera!
The grass is usually always greener on the other side. Rest assured, most of the times in a good car, the front seat is just as comfortable as the back seat.
It doesn't matter how much you shine when you're standing still. Just like it doesn't matter what your wheel size is. In the end, power and torque get you ahead, not blinged out wheels and fat tyres.
Don't assume that more is always better, and never underestimate yourself. You may have 400 horsepower while someone else may have 500. But if you make that at 5500 revs and the other guy's comes in at 9000, you're surely gonna have a good and happy head start, while he's left frustrated, waiting for it all to build up and eventually kick in.
With great power comes great responsibility. There's no use having an engine making a thousand horsepower if you can't find a gearbox that can take it and put it to good use.
Always keep your guard up in questionable situations. A laminated windshield will not shatter in the event of a direct hit. Some cars like Volvo's S80, even come with laminated side windows.
You don't need eyes in the back of your head. Just glance back every now and then to ascertain your position before assuming anything. Objects in the rear view mirror may be closer than they appear.
Take time to pay attention to the small details, and don't rely on just the big picture. Even an airbag won't deploy if your seat belt isn't fastened.
Keep your choices vast and enjoy the different gifts of life. Like a good audio system, enjoy different kinds of music. Be it the radio, or a multi-disc changer.
Don't get too excited when presented with something you've waited for for a while. That's why launch control keeps your revs and tyres in check. You don't wanna meet a great road and lose out on the fun because of a silly mistake right at the start.
Like tyre pressure, keep your blood pressure in check. This will lead to more efficiency and a smoother ride.
And most importantly, like a good engine layout, always have your heart in the right place.
Remember, there's always someone waiting for you. So ride/drive safe.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
The new yore
What can I say, the day has arrived. Of course, 116% import duty still intact, the foray of major manufacturers into the Indian automobile market is stunning. I'd like to say, "Who'd've thunk it?" and I do.
India now has a market for all the ultra-exclusive examples. Bentley and Lamborghini brought house first, followed by Bugatti, all thanks to Volkswagen; and now Aston Martin, Koenigsegg and Ferrari are barging in. Ferrari has been testing the waters far too long now. Just bring it already.. AMG is established, as is M. Brabus and Hamann have quietly been seeping in as well. And just look at the choices you have if you're looking to spend upwards of 3 crore on a car. You have everything from a Lamborghini Murcielago, Merc SL Black and Aston Rapide to an Armored Range Rover, Phantom or even the mighty Bugatti Veyron, which tops out even that farmhouse investment at about 22 crore on the road (!!)
Some thoughts now. First, as I recall, the Land Rover Discovery. Sure. It looks like someone put a cardboard cabin on the back of a pickup. But it will whoop the Merc ML left, right, centre, over and above.. The Fortuner is huge for it's price, and is only selling because it's a "new launch" from Toyota. However, if it were me, a 20 year old horrifically underpowered engine in an 11 year old design with wooden brakes is not to my liking, thanks. SUVs nowadays are a far cry from say the Jeep, the Defender, and of course, the Humvee.
Hummer, what a time to go on sabbatical (as I'd like to think). In a market where big, obnoxious cars, some as useless as the Fortuner, sell to the rural-minded on sheer size, Hummer (or Hammer as it is popularly known to the less-read) would have been the ideal car, not just for them, but also for the afficionados alike.
Thank God for the Thar then.
India now has a market for all the ultra-exclusive examples. Bentley and Lamborghini brought house first, followed by Bugatti, all thanks to Volkswagen; and now Aston Martin, Koenigsegg and Ferrari are barging in. Ferrari has been testing the waters far too long now. Just bring it already.. AMG is established, as is M. Brabus and Hamann have quietly been seeping in as well. And just look at the choices you have if you're looking to spend upwards of 3 crore on a car. You have everything from a Lamborghini Murcielago, Merc SL Black and Aston Rapide to an Armored Range Rover, Phantom or even the mighty Bugatti Veyron, which tops out even that farmhouse investment at about 22 crore on the road (!!)
Some thoughts now. First, as I recall, the Land Rover Discovery. Sure. It looks like someone put a cardboard cabin on the back of a pickup. But it will whoop the Merc ML left, right, centre, over and above.. The Fortuner is huge for it's price, and is only selling because it's a "new launch" from Toyota. However, if it were me, a 20 year old horrifically underpowered engine in an 11 year old design with wooden brakes is not to my liking, thanks. SUVs nowadays are a far cry from say the Jeep, the Defender, and of course, the Humvee.
Hummer, what a time to go on sabbatical (as I'd like to think). In a market where big, obnoxious cars, some as useless as the Fortuner, sell to the rural-minded on sheer size, Hummer (or Hammer as it is popularly known to the less-read) would have been the ideal car, not just for them, but also for the afficionados alike.
Thank God for the Thar then.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Three's a crowd..
People say a lot of things..
They say there's two sides to every story..
They say there's the two sides of a coin..
I say, the coin rolls only because of it's third side.
The side that isn't considered, but most certainly exists.
True, it's not the most noticeable,
but again, that is what separates the two sides,
and what carries them
when they both wish to see the world.
Acknowledged on not..
They also say, two's company, while, well..
They say there's two sides to every story..
They say there's the two sides of a coin..
I say, the coin rolls only because of it's third side.
The side that isn't considered, but most certainly exists.
True, it's not the most noticeable,
but again, that is what separates the two sides,
and what carries them
when they both wish to see the world.
Acknowledged on not..
They also say, two's company, while, well..
Monday, January 17, 2011
The Sun & The Rain
The thing about cars is, to me, they're all special in some way or another. A point I always like to make clear, is that things don't always have to be technical when it comes to speaking to me. Some cars remind me of design elements they were probably inspired by. It could be anything from a chair (Volvo's floating centre console) to gull wings (Mercedes SLS AMG doors, which are of course based on the iconic 300SL).
What I believe, is that the Indian market has matured. There are prospects for every market segment. Be it a sub-2 lakh car, or a car with a price tag of over 2 crore. If it is distinct enough to sport the tag, it will be accepted. This brings me to a point I've been trying to understand for a while now. Trying to be unbiased, and speaking from a generic marketing perspective, I would say certain manufacturers are growing exponentially, while some are just asleep. There are car corporation giants who are hugely successful abroad, but suffering in India, for whatever reason.
Mercedes-Benz has been here for over a decade, and they have the strongest brand acknowledgement you can think of. However, aggressive marketing has enabled another German giant, BMW, to storm in and claim top spot in less than half the time it took MB. Now, MB didn't have any competition in the first place, they were a monopoly. People had to buy what they sold at the price they sold it at. They had no choice, plainly put. BMW came in, and in a span of what, 3 years, launched their entire product portfolio, something NO other manufacturer has ever done in India. That made MB sit up and take notice. Earlier, Mercedes had their C200 K petrol and C220 CDI diesel models. BMW poured in with the 320i, 325i, 320d and M3, forcing MB to bring in their C230 and C63 AMG just to stay in the race, let alone compete for position. It's grown, the segment. Now, BMW, Audi, Volvo, Jaguar, and soon, Cadillac and Lexus will flex their muscles here - then the proverbial pot will most certainly start to boil.
Volvo. One of the brands I feel is asleep, or simply lacks the resources it needs to raise it's head and make a statement. They have a wonderful lineup internationally, a lineup which in purchase decisions, supercedes the very top brands. In India, it's a case of too little, too late. But with the slew of launches expected in 2011, they might just manage to dent their target segments. Their brand-building exercise is, to say the least, critical. Stephen Jacoby, newly appointed CEO, says the funding is in place and Geely is being supportive. Which cars would I like to see as a representative? A C60, S90 and an all-new XC90 or XC100, as is rumored. Think about it, how cool will a targa-roofed, strikingly designed, 304 horsepower coupe appeal to the market now. I looked through the papers this morning, as I usually do, and something unusual caught my eye. A grey car, with gullwing doors and striking headlamps, that I thought was an Aston-Martin, until I noticed the diagonal slat on the grill - a Volvo! Blimey even!
A little more Volvo. Why has Volvo always trumped in terms of safety? Simply because all other manufacturers, earlier at least, aimed to meet the top Euro NCAP safety standard of 5 stars. Volvo on the other hand, aim solely at building cars to save lives. Which is why even the smallest Volvo, the C30, is as safe as the house-on-wheels XC90. Volvo defines the benchmark, other manufacturers must replicate it.
Right then, my thoughts about luxury cars. Just as Volvo aims at building the safest cars, Mercedes-Benz aimed at creating the perfect automobile. Which is what brought about the S-klasse. The S is created, painstakingly I might add, to be the best car in the world. And it almost does it. True, you have Rolls-Royce and Bentley who beg to differ, but then again, cars like the BMW 7-series, the Audi A8 and the Jaguar XJ - they WANT that spot that the S has. Technologically, they will have it, even exceed in some areas, but they are cars built to take on the S-klasse; the S, it's simply designed to be the best. And that, I tell you, is it's defined purpose; which is why, it always will be.
The world is moving on, automobile manufacturers are moving with it. Green does not mean less powerful anymore. I'm glad to see the way things are turning out. Like I said, no technicalities. Think of a hybrid roadster as enjoying the sun and the rain on a June afternoon, all in a matter of seconds.
Here's to the future of the automobile. ;)
What I believe, is that the Indian market has matured. There are prospects for every market segment. Be it a sub-2 lakh car, or a car with a price tag of over 2 crore. If it is distinct enough to sport the tag, it will be accepted. This brings me to a point I've been trying to understand for a while now. Trying to be unbiased, and speaking from a generic marketing perspective, I would say certain manufacturers are growing exponentially, while some are just asleep. There are car corporation giants who are hugely successful abroad, but suffering in India, for whatever reason.
Mercedes-Benz has been here for over a decade, and they have the strongest brand acknowledgement you can think of. However, aggressive marketing has enabled another German giant, BMW, to storm in and claim top spot in less than half the time it took MB. Now, MB didn't have any competition in the first place, they were a monopoly. People had to buy what they sold at the price they sold it at. They had no choice, plainly put. BMW came in, and in a span of what, 3 years, launched their entire product portfolio, something NO other manufacturer has ever done in India. That made MB sit up and take notice. Earlier, Mercedes had their C200 K petrol and C220 CDI diesel models. BMW poured in with the 320i, 325i, 320d and M3, forcing MB to bring in their C230 and C63 AMG just to stay in the race, let alone compete for position. It's grown, the segment. Now, BMW, Audi, Volvo, Jaguar, and soon, Cadillac and Lexus will flex their muscles here - then the proverbial pot will most certainly start to boil.
Volvo. One of the brands I feel is asleep, or simply lacks the resources it needs to raise it's head and make a statement. They have a wonderful lineup internationally, a lineup which in purchase decisions, supercedes the very top brands. In India, it's a case of too little, too late. But with the slew of launches expected in 2011, they might just manage to dent their target segments. Their brand-building exercise is, to say the least, critical. Stephen Jacoby, newly appointed CEO, says the funding is in place and Geely is being supportive. Which cars would I like to see as a representative? A C60, S90 and an all-new XC90 or XC100, as is rumored. Think about it, how cool will a targa-roofed, strikingly designed, 304 horsepower coupe appeal to the market now. I looked through the papers this morning, as I usually do, and something unusual caught my eye. A grey car, with gullwing doors and striking headlamps, that I thought was an Aston-Martin, until I noticed the diagonal slat on the grill - a Volvo! Blimey even!
A little more Volvo. Why has Volvo always trumped in terms of safety? Simply because all other manufacturers, earlier at least, aimed to meet the top Euro NCAP safety standard of 5 stars. Volvo on the other hand, aim solely at building cars to save lives. Which is why even the smallest Volvo, the C30, is as safe as the house-on-wheels XC90. Volvo defines the benchmark, other manufacturers must replicate it.
Right then, my thoughts about luxury cars. Just as Volvo aims at building the safest cars, Mercedes-Benz aimed at creating the perfect automobile. Which is what brought about the S-klasse. The S is created, painstakingly I might add, to be the best car in the world. And it almost does it. True, you have Rolls-Royce and Bentley who beg to differ, but then again, cars like the BMW 7-series, the Audi A8 and the Jaguar XJ - they WANT that spot that the S has. Technologically, they will have it, even exceed in some areas, but they are cars built to take on the S-klasse; the S, it's simply designed to be the best. And that, I tell you, is it's defined purpose; which is why, it always will be.
The world is moving on, automobile manufacturers are moving with it. Green does not mean less powerful anymore. I'm glad to see the way things are turning out. Like I said, no technicalities. Think of a hybrid roadster as enjoying the sun and the rain on a June afternoon, all in a matter of seconds.
Here's to the future of the automobile. ;)
Friday, January 14, 2011
Watermelon
Coping with stress the effective way.
Happy thoughts are seldom thought of when you're happy. It's when you're all down, depressed and stuck in a hole that you try to think happy things with the hope that it'll make you feel a little better. But it only makes things worse. And the last thing to do would be to think of something sad, cos that will only makes things even worse than they already are.
However, certain things, call me materialistic or whatever, but sometimes, they do help. Watermelon. Green Peas and Chocolate. They really do it for me. No matter how sad I am, the sight of a big, red, juicy watermelon makes me smile, from the bottom of my heart; and it makes me thank God that there is something so wonderfully refreshing in existence, especially to help in times where you almost wanna kill yourself.
Passion. It can be rocks, stamps, small cars, multimillion dollar cars, or spacecraft. Whatever helps you focus on what truly makes you happy. Of course, that depends on your will to create. Sadists and the like won't get any of this. In times of my deepest grief, my ears stand to attention at the shriek of a multi-cylinder motorcycle speeding past at 9000rpm, or a sportscar doing almost the same thing. Never fails to grab my attention and capture my mindspace, for a good while. In fact, sometimes, it's so much so, I thank God for V8s and then wonder why I was sad in the first place. It helps.
Music. Another very effective method. Choosing the right track is critical in deciding if you feel better or worse. Listening to an Opeth or Alice in Chains solo in the middle of one their songs for instance will sadden you, then get you all welled up by the time you reach the solo. It is difficult to play a happy song when you're sad, I know it is. But then again, a few songs later, you're like, that's it. Enough. No more. Throw on some Cannibal Corpse, Slayer or Metallica (or whatever bangs your head) and get moving.
Note, alcohol is not on this list. Watermelon. Try it.
Happy thoughts are seldom thought of when you're happy. It's when you're all down, depressed and stuck in a hole that you try to think happy things with the hope that it'll make you feel a little better. But it only makes things worse. And the last thing to do would be to think of something sad, cos that will only makes things even worse than they already are.
However, certain things, call me materialistic or whatever, but sometimes, they do help. Watermelon. Green Peas and Chocolate. They really do it for me. No matter how sad I am, the sight of a big, red, juicy watermelon makes me smile, from the bottom of my heart; and it makes me thank God that there is something so wonderfully refreshing in existence, especially to help in times where you almost wanna kill yourself.
Passion. It can be rocks, stamps, small cars, multimillion dollar cars, or spacecraft. Whatever helps you focus on what truly makes you happy. Of course, that depends on your will to create. Sadists and the like won't get any of this. In times of my deepest grief, my ears stand to attention at the shriek of a multi-cylinder motorcycle speeding past at 9000rpm, or a sportscar doing almost the same thing. Never fails to grab my attention and capture my mindspace, for a good while. In fact, sometimes, it's so much so, I thank God for V8s and then wonder why I was sad in the first place. It helps.
Music. Another very effective method. Choosing the right track is critical in deciding if you feel better or worse. Listening to an Opeth or Alice in Chains solo in the middle of one their songs for instance will sadden you, then get you all welled up by the time you reach the solo. It is difficult to play a happy song when you're sad, I know it is. But then again, a few songs later, you're like, that's it. Enough. No more. Throw on some Cannibal Corpse, Slayer or Metallica (or whatever bangs your head) and get moving.
Note, alcohol is not on this list. Watermelon. Try it.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Enveloped
Supercars are supercars. Hypercars are well....
When you make a supercar, you have to think about buyers, the environment, where you're going to run it, road safety thingies... Basically think like Volvo..
But when you think of a hypercar, you think extreme. The best brakes, the best suspension, the ultimate chassis, critically accurate lightweight construction and ballsout mad! There's no provision to think about safety, when the only thing to do is build a car that goes like stink down a closed circuit and handles like an extension of your body, so much so that you KNOW it will do as you please, as you WANT, WHEN you WANT! No computers, no gadgetry, no radio, no flappy paddle gearshift for wannabe F1 drivers... ENTER THE R.
Building a Supercar for Dummies - by Horacio Pagani
(Ferrari California? Money maker..) (Mercedes: Z rated tyres, only on certain AMG/Black models..)
The reason I like the Zonda; the R, in particular, is because someone the world hadn't even heard of, comes out and makes a car that makes the world stand up and take notice. Astons, Ferraris, Koenigseggs, Lamborghinis, Mercedeses, and Porsches all saw their numbers crunched the wrong way with the advent of the Paganis. (At this point, I'm reminded of the Jaguar XJ220, the Ferrari F40, the Bugatti EB110, the Lotus Esprit and the McLaren F1, the last of their kind..)
Forgive me for my inclination of portraying certain aspects not unlike a certain automobile journalist / presenter. (Hail Jezza!).
Bugatti showed the world that 400+ kph was achievable in a car that had air conditioning, airbags, a stereo, comfortable seats, and, above all, composure. I have huge respect for the Veyron and all it has accomplished. SSC can only hope to achieve what they have on their own. All due respect to the Ultimate Aero TT, except, it barely has too much of mine. Like May said, "Volkswagen have pushed the outside of the envelope. They've done something that everyone said just could not be done". And that alone garners bucket loads of my respect, and pride in mankind for creating something as thoroughly astonishing as the Veyron.
The world today is turning into the dust bowl we were destined to have. From dust we come, to dust we'll go. But before that, break the mould! Push the envelope, the boundaries that lie. Life is all about creation. Dream. And most of all, make sure at least a few things off your bucket list have been checked off. I know I've checked quite a few off mine.. :)
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Walking In My Shoes
I would tell you about the things
They put me through.
The pain I've been subjected to.
But the Lord himself would blush.
The countless feasts laid at my feet,
Forbidden fruits for me to eat.
But I think your pulse would start to rush.
Now I'm not looking for absolution,
Forgiveness for the things I do.
But before you come to any conclusions -
Try walking in my shoes,
Try walking in my shoes.
You'll stumble in my footsteps,
Keep the same appointments I kept.
If you try walking in my shoes.
If you try walking in my shoes.
Morality would frown upon,
Decency look down upon.
The scapegoat fate's made of me.
But I promise now, my judge and jurors,
My intentions couldn't have been purer.
My case is easy to see.
I'm not looking for a clearer conscience,
Peace of mind after what I've been through.
And before we talk of any repentance -
Try walking in my shoes.
Try walking in my shoes.
You'll stumble in my footsteps,
Keep the same appointments I kept.
If you try walking in my shoes.
If you try walking in my shoes.
Try walking in my shoes.
Now I'm not looking for absolution,
Forgiveness for the things I do.
But before you come to any conclusions -
Try walking in my shoes.
Try walking in my shoes.
You'll stumble in my footsteps,
Keep the same appointments I kept.
If you try walking in my shoes.
Try walking in my shoes.
If you try walking in my shoes.
Try walking in my shoes.
- Depeche Mode.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
If you're happy and you know it, smile..
I was told we are different. In long conversation, or a casual text, I know that. But saying that means so many different things, yet it all is the same thing.
People find happiness in different ways, doing different things; the same with sadness. Not everything brings us down the same way. Not everyone responds or reacts to the same situation in a particular way. Well, if there's a fire in a building, you run out of it through the safest exit possible. But this isn't about mishaps, or public catastrophe. This is about being individual. Everyone is a different person. And everyone assumes they know what that means; most people don't realise what it means. It's all different paths, a different journey. We all prefer to target the happy, peaceful ending. It's the way we get there that the fuss is all about. There is no short road. There are starting points all equidistant. You can choose to smell the flowers. You can choose to race the winds. Or maybe, just take a nap, and walk a few steps every now and then, meeting other people, sharing your experiences as they pause from racing the wind, or perhaps, stop to smell the same flower you fancy.
There then begins another path. Walk along, or walk away; or, walk some of the distance, then go your own way. The latter is the one that can break you. Not applicable for everyone. Sometimes, lives are made walking small distances with different people, some are fulfilled walking the distance alone, but with certainty and surety of a happy ending. Happy are those who make it, well, until they look around. That's not the time. You have all the time in the world, but then you get bored looking, and depending on the time you have left, you walk backwards. Hell, you should've just stopped earlier.. *laugh*. Then they show up, the togetherwalkers. Last in line, but with the widest smiles. Ready to take their last steps at this colorful, yet limited area happy ending zone.
We are not different. We all want to be happy. We all need to be loved. We all want good things for those we care about and all those who care about us. If this has all been accomplished, is it not success?
Sure, you would want to carpet the path for your followers. Especially the rough patches. Why let your loved ones suffer for mistakes you made? Make it right, to the best of your power. All this at the end. When I thought it would end on a happy note. Trying to make the ending great is what brings out the thoughts that really matter. What truly matters though, is trying to make it better. By it, I mean every little thing that you can change to make it all better, every small detail you notice, because in the end, it'll be like plugging the holes of a dam. Well, not quite, but you know..
To all those who make me think, keep pushing me. It hurts, but then again, it inspires.. In the end. We just want to be happy.
People find happiness in different ways, doing different things; the same with sadness. Not everything brings us down the same way. Not everyone responds or reacts to the same situation in a particular way. Well, if there's a fire in a building, you run out of it through the safest exit possible. But this isn't about mishaps, or public catastrophe. This is about being individual. Everyone is a different person. And everyone assumes they know what that means; most people don't realise what it means. It's all different paths, a different journey. We all prefer to target the happy, peaceful ending. It's the way we get there that the fuss is all about. There is no short road. There are starting points all equidistant. You can choose to smell the flowers. You can choose to race the winds. Or maybe, just take a nap, and walk a few steps every now and then, meeting other people, sharing your experiences as they pause from racing the wind, or perhaps, stop to smell the same flower you fancy.
There then begins another path. Walk along, or walk away; or, walk some of the distance, then go your own way. The latter is the one that can break you. Not applicable for everyone. Sometimes, lives are made walking small distances with different people, some are fulfilled walking the distance alone, but with certainty and surety of a happy ending. Happy are those who make it, well, until they look around. That's not the time. You have all the time in the world, but then you get bored looking, and depending on the time you have left, you walk backwards. Hell, you should've just stopped earlier.. *laugh*. Then they show up, the togetherwalkers. Last in line, but with the widest smiles. Ready to take their last steps at this colorful, yet limited area happy ending zone.
We are not different. We all want to be happy. We all need to be loved. We all want good things for those we care about and all those who care about us. If this has all been accomplished, is it not success?
Sure, you would want to carpet the path for your followers. Especially the rough patches. Why let your loved ones suffer for mistakes you made? Make it right, to the best of your power. All this at the end. When I thought it would end on a happy note. Trying to make the ending great is what brings out the thoughts that really matter. What truly matters though, is trying to make it better. By it, I mean every little thing that you can change to make it all better, every small detail you notice, because in the end, it'll be like plugging the holes of a dam. Well, not quite, but you know..
To all those who make me think, keep pushing me. It hurts, but then again, it inspires.. In the end. We just want to be happy.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Twister
Dark clouds gather around the sky. It's not monsoon. It's just all that's thought unnatural, coming in a very natural sort of way, so you'd think it was just supposed to happen.
The clouds swerve, mesmerising you with their beautiful, yet daunting formations, threatening to strike no sooner than after you're done looking. Slowly, ever so slowly, they intertwine, then as suddenly as they'd slowly appeared, they explode with wrath. Twisters spew forth of the amalgamation. The ground you just stood on, the scenery around you and everything that was a part of it barely a few seconds ago is gone, all gone. Wiped off the face of this plane of existence.
Lightning flashes. Your nerves tremble. Your thoughts freeze. Your mind races. What happened? How? Why? How did you not see this coming? You did. It was there all along, brewing. The blue sky turned cloudy. You admired it then. Looking at formations. Clouds so eloquently painted on the sky you'd think they were meant to be there for all the right reasons. Then the chill goes up. The clouds turn dark.
Dark clouds gather around the sky. Not monsoon. All that's thought unnatural, coming very naturally, like it was supposed to happen. Just supposed to happen. It rages on, the storm. swooping up all in it's path, leaving a trail of devastation; homes brought to the ground, though some houses remain standing; raging on to sweep it's wave of destruction and unconditional, undiscriminated obliteration.
Nothing seems to stop it for those few minutes of it's existence. It is all powerful. Laws bow before it's might, giving way to the unreasonable. Yet, in those moments of tragedy, lunacy will raise it's head, and reason will crash before it, for complete loss of comprehension. Why now? Why after all this while? No. It never left, it never came. In the gentle breeze in the evening. Those cold draughts by the window, that send split second chills down your spine. It's there. It's there in all of that, everywhere. Building up, waiting. Waiting to unleash it's fury when you very least expect it. Why? Because, unfortunately, that is the way it is. The inevitable. If only there were ways to see, realise the inevitable before it raises it's obvious, fiery, soul-burning head; torching hopes, visions and dreams. And it will always happen at the worst time. But only if you let it.
Dream on.
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