Our Blog
Win The War on Christmas with Quirk’s Guide to Holiday Villains
If holiday movies, TV specials and folklore have taught us anything, it's that the forces of evil would like nothing better than to ruin Christmas for everyone. This year you can save Christmas from the likes of Krampus, Oogie Boogie, Scut Farkus, and other classic holiday wreckers. Just keep this identi-graphic close by so you know who you're up against.
Posted by Quirk Books Staff
23 Quirky, Geeky, and Bookish Stocking Stuffers
As quirky geeks who read, we like to give unique gifts that we would also love. If you’re like us, we recommend reinforcing your wall hooks and buying a bigger stocking this year, because we found 23 stocking stuffer/Hanukkah/Festivus gifts for the quirky, geeky, and bookish people in your life. Take a page out of our book and shop via the one-for-you-one-for-us method.
Posted by Jamie Canaves
The Many Literary Roles of Keira Knightley
‘Tis the season to pull out the holiday films, and we are sure you will be revisiting Keira Knightley’s love triangle in Love Actually. But don’t limit yourself to this holiday classic, Knightley gathers literary adaptations the way Santa collects cookies on Christmas Eve. For this reason, Keira, to us, you are perfect.
Posted by Sarah Fox
A Playlist for Severus Snape
At first glance, Professor Severus Snape is an intimidating, sarcastic, unfriendly, and stern man. But don’t be fooled; his frosty exterior hides a passionate heart and noble intentions. One of J.K. Rowling’s more complex, layered characters, he evolves from anti-hero to full-on hero during the course of her books. Which makes him worthy of a playlist in our book.
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” – The Animals
Throughout much of the Harry Potter series, Snape is painted as a villainous character. Harry himself believes the professor has nefarious intentions. Most of the Hogwarts folks don’t realize that, despite his sour attitude, deep down, Severus means well.
“Baby, do you understand me now?
Sometimes I feel a little mad
But don't you know that no one alive can always be an angel
When things go wrong I feel real bad”
“Spellbound” – AC/DC
Since few people know of Snape’s noble intentions, this is the track he cranks up when he gets tired of being perceived in such a negative light.
“I can't do nothin' right
I never sleep at night
Can't even start a fight
My feet have left the ground
Spinnin' round and round
Spellbound”
“Nobody Loves Me” – Bryan Ferry
The title speaks for itself. Severus may not seem like the kind of man who would throw himself a pity party, but every once in a while even he’s going to need a serious wallow. This song, whose upbeat tempo belies its self-pitying theme, is just what he needs in those moments.
“Bad Reputation” – Freedy Johnston
It’s safe to say Professor Snape isn’t one of the most beloved teachers at Hogwarts. His motives are often questioned and people assume the worst of him, which can’t be fun.
“I know I got a bad reputation
and it isn't just talk, talk, talk
If I could only give you everything
You know I haven't got”
“Only You” – Yaz
This melodic, bittersweet song of lost love always makes Snape think of Lily Potter, the girl who got away.
“All I needed was the love you gave
All I needed for another day
And all I ever knew
Only you”
“Love Secret Domain” – The Immortal Coil
When Snape needs to go to a darker place, this track helps. A melodic interpretation of Coil’s more sinister original, this song has a dark, wistful passion to it.
“In little children's heavy heads
My dreams erupt while in my bed
Innocence is dripping red”
“Promise” – Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
Severus is a man of secrets, one who kept his word to Dumbledore, fulfilling the headmaster’s request to sacrifice him. This tune, full of melancholy and resolution, reminds him of that difficult time.
“The vision softly fades
But there's a light that still remains
And in these walls I feel your sadness wane
But in a moment you'll feel no pain”
“Soul in Isolation” – The Chameleons
Being Severus Snape can be a lonely business. When he lets his guard down in private and allows for a true moment of vulnerability and trepidation at whether he will be successful in his role defeating Voldemort, this tune echoes his solitude and concern.
“Will I live to see his face
Will others come to take my place
In total isolation
Surrounded by fears
Too many crowds
Too many tears”
“Something I Can Never Have” – Nine Inch Nails
Severus was never able to win the heart of Lily Potter, and he's been haunted by that loss ever since. This anthem of longing and unattainability resonates with the professor.
Posted by Margarita Montimore
Quirk Corral: The Merits of Fan Fiction and The Power of Selfies
Here at Quirk we’ve spent hours searching the internet for the best bookish, geeky, and crafty links of the past week. Whether you are looking for the National Book Awards Winners or some old-timey pictures of a turkey in a top hat, we’re sure to have something to make your day (and your Thanksgiving!) a little brighter.
Posted by Jennifer Morell
Quirk Corral: Autumnal Florals and Chewbacca Grooming Techniques
(Image Credit: http://nruphoto.
Here at Quirk, we’ve scoured the internet for the best bookish, geeky, and crafty links of the past week. Whether you have a hankering for new story by Charlotte Brontë, or need a quick DIY star crochet tutorial, we’re sure to have something to make your day a little brighter.
Posted by Jennifer Morell
