May 9, 2024 • 13 mins
Each month, we explore art, music, literature, and nature, uncovering the beauty and inspiration in everyday moments, while inviting you to join us in finding the sacredness in the ordinary. This month's focus is the spoon.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
(Transcribed by TurboScribe.ai - Go Unlimited to remove this message) Welcome to the None But Curious podcast. We're all about finding inspiration in life's uncertainties.
Whether you're still figuring things out, questioning your beliefs, or just curious
about the world, come hang out with us as we celebrate the beauty of not having all the answers.
(00:21):
Hey, we're diving into the worlds of art, music, literature, and nature every month.
We'll uncover the remarkable in the everyday, showing you the beauty and inspiration that's
all around us. Come along as we explore and find the sacredness in those ordinary moments,
enriching our lives with a deeper appreciation for the world around us.
(00:42):
This month, the focus is the spoon. Spoons have seen quite the journey in their composition over
the ages. It all started with the simplest materials like wood, bone, and stone, fashioned
by our earliest ancestors. Then, in ancient Egypt, spoons took on an air of luxury, crafted from
ivory. Ancient Greece stepped it up with bronze spoons, blending function with artistry. As time
(01:07):
marched on, so did the materials used, with silver reigning supreme in ancient Rome and the Middle
Ages. The Renaissance brought a golden age for spoons, quite literally, as they were gilded in
gold to signify wealth and status. In the 18th century, silver made a comeback, reflecting the
refined taste of the era. The 19th century saw spoons decked out in various metals like silver
(01:30):
and gold, reflecting the Industrial Revolution's technological leaps. And then, the 20th century
brought mass production and modern materials like stainless steel and plastic, making spoons both
durable and affordable. From ancient simplicity to modern innovation, spoon composition tells a story
of human creativity and changing culinary customs. Spoons, often seen as simple tools, actually have
(01:56):
a wide range of uses beyond just eating. Of course, they're essential for getting food from plate to
mouth, but they do so much more. In the kitchen, they're perfect for stirring, mixing, and even
taste-testing dishes as they come together. Beyond cooking, they're handy for crafting, shaping
materials like clay or wax with ease. In medicine, they are used to measure out precise doses of
(02:18):
medication. You'll also find them playing important roles in cultural and religious ceremonies,
symbolizing nourishment, unity, and blessings. Musicians even use them as percussion instruments
to add unique sounds to their music. So from everyday tasks to artistic endeavors, spoons
prove to be incredibly versatile tools in our lives. And so here are a few examples of how spoons
(02:41):
are represented in different cultures. The Dan Wakemia, also called Wakermian,
or Onekermian rather, holds a special significance in the cultures of Liberia and Côte d'Ivoire.
These ladles, sometimes stretching up to two feet long, carry deep meaning, especially in
recognizing the immense hospitality of individual women. Beyond their practical use, these ladles
(03:07):
serve as symbols of status and hold spiritual significance. Each part of the ladle holds
symbolism. The legs, acting as the handle, represent all of those who come to be fed by the owner of
the ladle. Bowl, or the ladle's womb, is filled with rice, symbolizing abundance and sustenance.
Thus, the Dan Wakemia not only serves as a tool for nourishment, but also embodies the cultural
(03:32):
and spiritual importance of hospitality and abundance within these communities.
Now, a little ways away, Norwegian wedding spoons, crafted from the 1800s to the late 1900s,
are beautifully crafted works of art, often intricately carved from wood. These spoons have a
unique design, featuring two spoons delicately connected by a wooden chain. During wedding
(03:55):
celebrations, these spoons hold a special place as the newlyweds share their first meal together.
It's a cherished tradition, symbolizing unity and the start of their journey as a married couple,
with the spoon serving as a tangible reminder of their bond and commitment to each other.
Aww, these spoons are gorgeous. The coronation spoon has been a symbol of regal tradition in
(04:17):
the United Kingdom since the 12th century, holding a vital role in the coronation ceremony.
This ancient and intricate spoon is used to anoint the new monarch with holy oil,
marking the solemn moment of ascending to the throne. Passed down through generations,
the coronation spoon embodies the continuity and authority of the monarchy, linking each new ruler
(04:37):
to centuries of history and tradition. Its significance extends beyond its physical presence,
representing the sacred connection between the sovereign and their divine mandate to lead the
nation. Most recently, during King Charles' coronation, the coronation spoon took center
stage, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the British monarchy and the importance of royal
(04:58):
succession. And speaking of British monarchy, my maternal grandmother is British. And the whole
reason for me researching spoons was because of a memory I came across, not came across, but that
came to me several weeks ago regarding the spoons that my grandmother had. So in their house,
(05:22):
there was a little teeny tiny hallway in between the living room and the kitchen. And on it was a
display, a wooden display with all of these teeny tiny spoons, um, from different states that they
had visited. So they went on a cross country trip, I think I'd have been in the seventies at some
point. Um, and I thought that those spoons were amazing. They had Nevada and Colorado. And I
(05:50):
really don't remember all the spoons, but I just remember as a kid wondering, how come we weren't
using these rad spoons to drink tea? Why were we just using the stateless steel silverware when we
could be using state spoons? And it's a really fond memory. Um, I really loved those spoons and
(06:12):
they were crafted. Oh my gosh, the craftsmanship. Can we, can we talk about that for a second? Like
things just aren't made as they used to be. And we all know that, but there was something about
those spoons. I just, it's like kinda in your cabinet, just use it. Today is the day, use it
(06:33):
today. So I think fondly of those spoons. And I think I could probably find some on eBay or what
have you for probably like 300 bucks or 30 bucks, who knows, but it's quite a fond memory that I have.
All right, so let's get into spoons and art. Meret Oppenheim's "Object" stands as an iconic
(06:55):
piece of surrealist art that still intrigues audiences today with its mysterious allure.
Created in 1936, this artwork features a teacup, saucer, and spoon covered in fur,
challenging typical ideas of function and beauty. By blending everyday objects with
unconventional materials, Oppenheim disrupts traditional norms and prompts viewers to rethink
(07:17):
the boundaries between the ordinary and the extraordinary. "Object" is often seen as a
playful exploration of desire, femininity, and the subconscious embodying the surrealist fascination
with the strange and the irrational. Its lasting impact lies in its ability to provoke thought
and inspire dialogue, urging us to see the familiar and fresh in unexpected ways.
(07:41):
Then there's the Spoon Bridge and Cherry Sculpture, an iconic fixture in the Minneapolis Sculpture
Garden, and it's the creation of celebrated artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen.
I am terrible with names, so I am very sorry if I mispronounce those. I mean very much respect
because this sculpture is awesome. It weighs almost 7,000 pounds and its artwork showcases
(08:06):
the duo's whimsical style and knack for turning everyday objects into extraordinary sculptures.
Oldenburg and Van Bruggen are renowned for their ability to breathe new life into ordinary items,
and the Spoon Bridge and Cherry is a prime example of their talent. Beyond its impressive size, the
sculpture holds deeper meaning, symbolizing the delicate balance between nature and human
(08:26):
creativity. The spoon, a symbol of human craftsmanship, and the cherry, a representation
of natural beauty, come together in a harmonious blend and invites viewers to ponder the intricate
relationship between humanity and the environment. And now we'll get into spoons and music.
(08:46):
Speak the rhythm on your own. Speak the rhythm all alone. "Spoonman" by Soundgarden was released
in 1994 as part of the album Superunknown. The song is inspired by a street performer in Seattle
known as the Spoon Man, who played music using spoons as instruments. Cornell's lyrics delve
(09:07):
into themes of authenticity and self-expression. The song explores the paradox of Spoon Man's
identity and how he is perceived by others, adding layers of depth and complexity to its powerful
narrative. Save me, I'm together with your plan. How can it not be in your head now?
(09:30):
You're welcome. All right, so we'll move on to spoons in literature. I came across
Spoon River Anthology that was published in 1915 by Edgar Lee Masters, and it's a collection of
free verse poems with each poem a monologue spoken by a deceased resident from the fictional town of
Spoon River, Illinois. In these poems, people confess their deepest secrets, their frustrations,
(09:54):
and their joys. Masters drew inspiration from real people in his hometown of Lewistown,
and though it was an international bestseller, the book was banned in Lewistown until 1974
because Masters had revealed the troubled lives of actual people. The brutally honest poems provided
a glimpse into the complexities of being human. I just started reading the poems a few weeks ago,
(10:19):
and they're pretty intense for their time. It does explore the complexities of being human and
fantastically written. I think I would have been livid too if I saw some of my stories,
not that I have stories like those, but if I had secrets that were in writing,
(10:44):
and all over the world, I'd want that book banned too, I guess. Books should never be banned.
Another look at spoons is the spoons theory. Christine Miserando devised this theory as a
way to explain to her best friend over lunch how it felt to have lupus. Healthy people have
(11:05):
unlimited spoons, but people who are chronically ill only have a certain number of spoons to use
per day. So, say you have 12 spoons. It takes one spoon to simply get out of bed or get dressed
or take medicine. It costs two spoons to bathe and then two more to style your hair.
So, before walking out of the house, over half of your spoons have been used.
(11:29):
Eating a meal takes three spoons. Going to work or school takes four. So, getting out of bed,
getting ready, making one meal, and going to work takes more spoons than you already have in a day.
I keep this theory in mind, especially since the pandemic. I know this was created to explain
how it feels to be chronically ill, but I can also see how the theory can be used for people
(11:52):
with mental health issues or absolute overwhelm, such as during the lockdown in 2020.
And we're coming into spoons in nature. I did not know that this animal existed,
and I'm happy to share with you the roseate spoonbill. The roseate spoonbill is a wading
bird, kind of like an ibis. It has a pink football-shaped body, complemented by crimson
(12:17):
shoulder feathers and an orangish tail. It's named for its spoon-shaped bill that
it sweeps through shallow waters to search for its prey, including shrimp, prawns, insects,
and fish. Once it detects its food, the bird swiftly snaps its bill closed, but it often
swallows its catch whole. This bird can live in marshes, wetlands, and swamps, and is often
(12:39):
found nesting in colonies with other water birds like egrets and herons. The spoonbill is a symbol
of spiritual awakening, resilience amidst change, and the ability to seize opportunities and
unforeseen circumstances. It's just a beautiful bird to look at.
So, we've explored art, music, literature, and nature, and have revealed some significances
(13:02):
hidden within this seemingly simple tool. From its rich history to its diverse roles
in cultures worldwide, the spoon emerges as a symbol of creativity and connection.
But what does spoon mean for you? Share your experiences in our None But Curious Facebook
community, and don't forget to subscribe and review this podcast to help more people find it.
(13:27):
Until next time, continue finding the magic in the mundane.
(Transcribed by TurboScribe.ai - Go Unlimited to remove this message) Welcome to the None But Curious podcast. We're all about finding inspiration in life's uncertainties.
Whether you're still figuring things out, questioning your beliefs, or just curious
about the world, come hang out with us as we celebrate the beauty of not having all the answers.
(00:21):
Hey, we're diving into the worlds of art, music, literature, and nature every month.
We'll uncover the remarkable in the everyday, showing you the beauty and inspiration that's
all around us. Come along as we explore and find the sacredness in those ordinary moments,
enriching our lives with a deeper appreciation for the world around us.
(00:42):
This month, the focus is the spoon. Spoons have seen quite the journey in their composition over
the ages. It all started with the simplest materials like wood, bone, and stone, fashioned
by our earliest ancestors. Then, in ancient Egypt, spoons took on an air of luxury, crafted from
ivory. Ancient Greece stepped it up with bronze spoons, blending function with artistry. As time
(01:07):
marched on, so did the materials used, with silver reigning supreme in ancient Rome and the Middle
Ages. The Renaissance brought a golden age for spoons, quite literally, as they were gilded in
gold to signify wealth and status. In the 18th century, silver made a comeback, reflecting the
refined taste of the era. The 19th century saw spoons decked out in various metals like silver
(01:30):
and gold, reflecting the Industrial Revolution's technological leaps. And then, the 20th century
brought mass production and modern materials like stainless steel and plastic, making spoons both
durable and affordable. From ancient simplicity to modern innovation, spoon composition tells a story
of human creativity and changing culinary customs. Spoons, often seen as simple tools, actually have
(01:56):
a wide range of uses beyond just eating. Of course, they're essential for getting food from plate to
mouth, but they do so much more. In the kitchen, they're perfect for stirring, mixing, and even
taste-testing dishes as they come together. Beyond cooking, they're handy for crafting, shaping
materials like clay or wax with ease. In medicine, they are used to measure out precise doses of
(02:18):
medication. You'll also find them playing important roles in cultural and religious ceremonies,
symbolizing nourishment, unity, and blessings. Musicians even use them as percussion instruments
to add unique sounds to their music. So from everyday tasks to artistic endeavors, spoons
prove to be incredibly versatile tools in our lives. And so here are a few examples of how spoons
(02:41):
are represented in different cultures. The Dan Wakemia, also called Wakermian,
or Onekermian rather, holds a special significance in the cultures of Liberia and Côte d'Ivoire.
These ladles, sometimes stretching up to two feet long, carry deep meaning, especially in
recognizing the immense hospitality of individual women. Beyond their practical use, these ladles
(03:07):
serve as symbols of status and hold spiritual significance. Each part of the ladle holds
symbolism. The legs, acting as the handle, represent all of those who come to be fed by the owner of
the ladle. Bowl, or the ladle's womb, is filled with rice, symbolizing abundance and sustenance.
Thus, the Dan Wakemia not only serves as a tool for nourishment, but also embodies the cultural
(03:32):
and spiritual importance of hospitality and abundance within these communities.
Now, a little ways away, Norwegian wedding spoons, crafted from the 1800s to the late 1900s,
are beautifully crafted works of art, often intricately carved from wood. These spoons have a
unique design, featuring two spoons delicately connected by a wooden chain. During wedding
(03:55):
celebrations, these spoons hold a special place as the newlyweds share their first meal together.
It's a cherished tradition, symbolizing unity and the start of their journey as a married couple,
with the spoon serving as a tangible reminder of their bond and commitment to each other.
Aww, these spoons are gorgeous. The coronation spoon has been a symbol of regal tradition in
(04:17):
the United Kingdom since the 12th century, holding a vital role in the coronation ceremony.
This ancient and intricate spoon is used to anoint the new monarch with holy oil,
marking the solemn moment of ascending to the throne. Passed down through generations,
the coronation spoon embodies the continuity and authority of the monarchy, linking each new ruler
(04:37):
to centuries of history and tradition. Its significance extends beyond its physical presence,
representing the sacred connection between the sovereign and their divine mandate to lead the
nation. Most recently, during King Charles' coronation, the coronation spoon took center
stage, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the British monarchy and the importance of royal
(04:58):
succession. And speaking of British monarchy, my maternal grandmother is British. And the whole
reason for me researching spoons was because of a memory I came across, not came across, but that
came to me several weeks ago regarding the spoons that my grandmother had. So in their house,
(05:22):
there was a little teeny tiny hallway in between the living room and the kitchen. And on it was a
display, a wooden display with all of these teeny tiny spoons, um, from different states that they
had visited. So they went on a cross country trip, I think I'd have been in the seventies at some
point. Um, and I thought that those spoons were amazing. They had Nevada and Colorado. And I
(05:50):
really don't remember all the spoons, but I just remember as a kid wondering, how come we weren't
using these rad spoons to drink tea? Why were we just using the stateless steel silverware when we
could be using state spoons? And it's a really fond memory. Um, I really loved those spoons and
(06:12):
they were crafted. Oh my gosh, the craftsmanship. Can we, can we talk about that for a second? Like
things just aren't made as they used to be. And we all know that, but there was something about
those spoons. I just, it's like kinda in your cabinet, just use it. Today is the day, use it
(06:33):
today. So I think fondly of those spoons. And I think I could probably find some on eBay or what
have you for probably like 300 bucks or 30 bucks, who knows, but it's quite a fond memory that I have.
All right, so let's get into spoons and art. Meret Oppenheim's "Object" stands as an iconic
(06:55):
piece of surrealist art that still intrigues audiences today with its mysterious allure.
Created in 1936, this artwork features a teacup, saucer, and spoon covered in fur,
challenging typical ideas of function and beauty. By blending everyday objects with
unconventional materials, Oppenheim disrupts traditional norms and prompts viewers to rethink
(07:17):
the boundaries between the ordinary and the extraordinary. "Object" is often seen as a
playful exploration of desire, femininity, and the subconscious embodying the surrealist fascination
with the strange and the irrational. Its lasting impact lies in its ability to provoke thought
and inspire dialogue, urging us to see the familiar and fresh in unexpected ways.
(07:41):
Then there's the Spoon Bridge and Cherry Sculpture, an iconic fixture in the Minneapolis Sculpture
Garden, and it's the creation of celebrated artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen.
I am terrible with names, so I am very sorry if I mispronounce those. I mean very much respect
because this sculpture is awesome. It weighs almost 7,000 pounds and its artwork showcases
(08:06):
the duo's whimsical style and knack for turning everyday objects into extraordinary sculptures.
Oldenburg and Van Bruggen are renowned for their ability to breathe new life into ordinary items,
and the Spoon Bridge and Cherry is a prime example of their talent. Beyond its impressive size, the
sculpture holds deeper meaning, symbolizing the delicate balance between nature and human
(08:26):
creativity. The spoon, a symbol of human craftsmanship, and the cherry, a representation
of natural beauty, come together in a harmonious blend and invites viewers to ponder the intricate
relationship between humanity and the environment. And now we'll get into spoons and music.
(08:46):
Speak the rhythm on your own. Speak the rhythm all alone. "Spoonman" by Soundgarden was released
in 1994 as part of the album Superunknown. The song is inspired by a street performer in Seattle
known as the Spoon Man, who played music using spoons as instruments. Cornell's lyrics delve
(09:07):
into themes of authenticity and self-expression. The song explores the paradox of Spoon Man's
identity and how he is perceived by others, adding layers of depth and complexity to its powerful
narrative. Save me, I'm together with your plan. How can it not be in your head now?
(09:30):
You're welcome. All right, so we'll move on to spoons in literature. I came across
Spoon River Anthology that was published in 1915 by Edgar Lee Masters, and it's a collection of
free verse poems with each poem a monologue spoken by a deceased resident from the fictional town of
Spoon River, Illinois. In these poems, people confess their deepest secrets, their frustrations,
(09:54):
and their joys. Masters drew inspiration from real people in his hometown of Lewistown,
and though it was an international bestseller, the book was banned in Lewistown until 1974
because Masters had revealed the troubled lives of actual people. The brutally honest poems provided
a glimpse into the complexities of being human. I just started reading the poems a few weeks ago,
(10:19):
and they're pretty intense for their time. It does explore the complexities of being human and
fantastically written. I think I would have been livid too if I saw some of my stories,
not that I have stories like those, but if I had secrets that were in writing,
(10:44):
and all over the world, I'd want that book banned too, I guess. Books should never be banned.
Another look at spoons is the spoons theory. Christine Miserando devised this theory as a
way to explain to her best friend over lunch how it felt to have lupus. Healthy people have
(11:05):
unlimited spoons, but people who are chronically ill only have a certain number of spoons to use
per day. So, say you have 12 spoons. It takes one spoon to simply get out of bed or get dressed
or take medicine. It costs two spoons to bathe and then two more to style your hair.
So, before walking out of the house, over half of your spoons have been used.
(11:29):
Eating a meal takes three spoons. Going to work or school takes four. So, getting out of bed,
getting ready, making one meal, and going to work takes more spoons than you already have in a day.
I keep this theory in mind, especially since the pandemic. I know this was created to explain
how it feels to be chronically ill, but I can also see how the theory can be used for people
(11:52):
with mental health issues or absolute overwhelm, such as during the lockdown in 2020.
And we're coming into spoons in nature. I did not know that this animal existed,
and I'm happy to share with you the roseate spoonbill. The roseate spoonbill is a wading
bird, kind of like an ibis. It has a pink football-shaped body, complemented by crimson
(12:17):
shoulder feathers and an orangish tail. It's named for its spoon-shaped bill that
it sweeps through shallow waters to search for its prey, including shrimp, prawns, insects,
and fish. Once it detects its food, the bird swiftly snaps its bill closed, but it often
swallows its catch whole. This bird can live in marshes, wetlands, and swamps, and is often
(12:39):
found nesting in colonies with other water birds like egrets and herons. The spoonbill is a symbol
of spiritual awakening, resilience amidst change, and the ability to seize opportunities and
unforeseen circumstances. It's just a beautiful bird to look at.
So, we've explored art, music, literature, and nature, and have revealed some significances
(13:02):
hidden within this seemingly simple tool. From its rich history to its diverse roles
in cultures worldwide, the spoon emerges as a symbol of creativity and connection.
But what does spoon mean for you? Share your experiences in our None But Curious Facebook
community, and don't forget to subscribe and review this podcast to help more people find it.
(13:27):
Until next time, continue finding the magic in the mundane.
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