Everything I own…
A Personal Inventory
Embarking on an inventory of my possessions has been an exercise in introspection and analysis, offering a tangible narrative of my personal journey through the objects I own. From the musical instruments that chart my creative pursuits to the scents that define my space, each item in this catalog serves as a chapter in my story.
Home
In the 'Home' section of my inventory, there's a distinct emphasis on quality and design, especially in the handmade pottery items like mugs, plates, and bowls. I consciously choose these pieces for their durability and craftsmanship, valuing the skill and effort of the artisans who create them. My selection reflects a deeper appreciation for well-made, sustainable items that are not only functional but also carry an aesthetic value, resonating with my desire for longevity and quality in the objects that populate my daily life. This approach to selecting home essentials shows a deliberate stance on how I consume, prioritizing items that are thoughtfully crafted and designed to last, thereby reducing waste and valuing the human element in production.
Paper
My focus on building a collection of books underscores a preference for tangible, lasting sources of knowledge over ephemeral digital alternatives. This choice speaks to a broader perspective on consumption: a commitment to preserving the tangible in an increasingly virtual world, and a nod to the enduring worth of printed material in an age of fleeting digital information.
Electronics
These gadgets, each serving a specific function, collectively enhance my daily experiences, be it through communication, work, entertainment, or creativity. My selection of these electronics is driven by a balance between utility and quality. Aware of the escalating e-waste crisis, I prioritize electronics that promise extended usability, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This approach to technology, balancing necessity with environmental consciousness, mirrors my commitment to responsible consumption, choosing gadgets that serve their purpose effectively while minimizing my ecological footprint in the digital era.
Vices
The 'Vices' category in my inventory, comprised of a bong and a dirty ashtray, presents a candid introspection into the less celebrated aspects of my personal consumption. These objects, personally stigmatized, are unapologetic symbols of indulgence and leisure in my life. Their presence here is a raw acknowledgement of the complexity of our behavior, where not all possessions are about utility or aesthetics. This choice to include them in my inventory is an exercise in self-honesty, showcasing a willingness to embrace and own every facet of my lifestyle, even those that might not align with how I like to view myself. In a broader sense, these items serve as a reminder of the diverse ways in which we seek pleasure or escape, reflecting on the nuances of personal choice and the material embodiments of our less conspicuous habits.
Smell
“Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the years you have lived.” – Helen Keller.
The 'Smells' category in my inventory holds a special place. It's a collection of candles I've had for years, some dating back to my time at home, instantly replaced after they’re depleted. Each one carries a unique scent that does more than just fragrance my room; they serve as sensory time machines, evoking memories of different places and people
Music
The music category - encompassing guitars, harmonicas, guitar picks - epitomizes the duality of use-value and commodity value. As Marx suggests, the worth of a commodity lies not just in its physical attributes but in the labor invested in it and its role in the network of exchange. My musical instruments, while serving as tools for artistic expression (their use-value), also embody a certain amount of labor - from the craftsmanship of the guitar to the precision in a harmonica's design. This labor translates into their commodity value, a value that fluctuates based on societal demand and the skill required for their production.
However, beyond their economic valuation, these items hold a deeper, more personal value. Each strum on the guitar or note from the harmonica carries memories, emotions, and a sense of identity, transcending their objective commodity value. This personal attachment challenges the traditional notion of commodities as mere objects of trade, suggesting a more nuanced interplay between consumption, ownership, and personal meaning.
Sentimental
These are the four most sentimental objects in my possession, three of them being gifts which resonate deeply with the insights of Mauss in "The Gift."
1. This small jar, a memento from my middle school teacher's trip to Morocco, holds more than just coins—it's a vessel of fond memories and a symbol of gratitude that connects me to my past.
2. This Ankh, the Egyptian symbol for all the stages of life, was given to me by my late Grandfather shortly before he passed. He purchased it in Cairo in the 70s and It’s one of the only physical memories of have of him, serving as a poignant reminder that objects can connect us to our loved ones long after they're gone.
3. Showing the differences between the objects they procured, this teddy bear was given to me by my grandmother when I left for college. Growing up I was not allowed to play with it as it was a “collector's item”… This object represents a coming of age, a transition from the innocence and restrictions of childhood to the freedoms and responsibilities of adulthood.
4. This abalone shell is the only object here that was not given to me. When I look at it, touch it, smell it, it brings me back to the Island of Catalina off of California. I free dived over 50 feet to the seabed to retrieve the shell, a personal record. It serves as a testament to my determination and the belief that, no matter the challenges, with effort and perseverance, I can achieve what I set out to do. The physical ache of the dive is a stark reminder that the most rewarding accomplishments often come with their share of pain and struggle.
Fire
When taking inventory of my possessions, I stumbled upon an unexpected accumulation: I've been collecting matchbooks. This realization struck me as I cataloged the various lighters and matchbooks, a collection that had formed unintentionally over time,
