Undergraduate / Art, music, science, math, literature + secretly like - My UVA Supplement Essays [5]

1. What work of art, music, science, mathematics, or literature has surprised, unsettled, or challenged you, and in what way?

An incredible piece of music called "Findling" by a German black metal band, "Lunar Aurora", is something which has both unsettled and uplifted me over the times I have listened to it. The first time I listened to the song, I was deeply overwhelmed and could not articulate what I was experiencing. By the time the song had finished, all I knew was that I had shed a small tear, something which no other piece of music had done to me before. Overtime, the song and the message I feel it conveys have become my life counsel. Its words a daily inspiration about overcoming obstacles.

Even though the song's tone is initially depressing and somewhat dark, the ultimate feeling which it evokes in me is one of confidence. At the climax of the song, the uplifting elements conquer all of the initial dark themes presented. That, I feel, is the essence of the song and in that lies the main message conveyed: That in the end, no matter how difficult the path toward success may be, the outcome is always positive and the ultimate victory is always yours. My comprehension of this message has gradually changed my outlook on life and has made me a motivated, optimistic and a passionate individual. I hold the song in such high regard because it is this song which has lead me to this realization. It tells me to keep trying. It tells me that even if I fail, I should keep on going and there should not be anything which I am not prepared to do.

2. Discuss something you secretly like but pretend not to, or vice versa.

Melodic death metal is a sub-genre of heavy metal and one which I really enjoy, but rather not flaunt my love for it towards others. I have my reasons for both.

Each sub-genre of heavy metal has certain themes associated with it. The sub-genre of Thrash Metal focuses on critically viewing society, Death Metal focuses on death, gore and other unpleasant things, Black Metal on anti-religiousness and nihilism and Doom Metal on lust, love and depression. Inside all of these one common ground can be found: darkness and an overall vibe of negativity, both in the lyrics and in the music. I enjoy all of these highly but melodic death metal takes a different approach towards matters. It has positive lyrics, uplifting melodies and an overall vibe which is refreshing. I like listening to it since it keeps me focused on the positive aspects of life rather than constantly reminding me of what is wrong with it. It also reminds me that having some mindless fun and not taking everything so seriously is also viable option.

Followers of heavy metal say that melodic death metal should not have a place in metal since the genre does not have space for "fruity melodies and themes" and they normally shun people for enjoying it. Many of my metal following friends also do not like the sub-genre so I don't normally openly announce my attraction towards it but I do defend it at times. I say that the existence of this sub-genre serves to provide a fascinating conclusion: Even in a place where everything is dark, negative and misanthropic, there is still hope for happiness and relief.