personal | The Burgundy Zine

August 22, 2020

Bug’s Philosophy: Adulthood

As of today, I have legally been an adult for two years — but it wasn’t until recently that I finally began to feel like an adult.

Despite being a junior in college, working multiple jobs, paying taxes, taking public transportation into the city on my own (gasp), living with my partner, having six credit cards, and a number of other things, I still felt very much as if I was waiting for some anime-esque magical girl transformation into adulthood.

So… when was that defining moment? Was a Descartesian descent into quarantine madness and introspection?

August 8, 2020

3 Years

Happy “three years of knowing you” anniversary, my honey darling. Thank you for being there for me through everything… Even my more questionable fashion choices.

I couldn’t ask for a better partner in life.

July 9, 2020

Bug’s Philosophy: What Makes a Truly Great Artist?

A significant portion of my adolescence was spent binge-watching speed art videos and tutorials. I gushed over Instagram artists, salivating at the idea of trading my hands for theirs — although trading brains would be more logical since creativity has a neurological basis.

Then, it finally dawned on me the other day. There’s an unspoken dichotomy between the hallmarks of a great artist and the skill level of a talented artist.

July 2, 2020

Bug’s Philosophy: Haircuts, Identity, and Validation

As silly and as shallow as it may sound, a rockin’ haircut is more than just a confidence booster; it can validate your identity.

We all know what it’s like to emerge from under a sheen salon cape feeling rejuvenated — or completely crushed. The way 100,000 follicles that sprout from our scalp shape our face wields such overwhelming power over our self-esteem.

And yet, it’s just hair. You can shave it all off and it’ll grow back with the utmost amnesty. The beauty of a great haircut is ephemeral, the heartbreak of a botched cut is fleeting.

June 29, 2020

Self Care Self Love by Mary Alexandra

Artist Mary Alexandra touches and inspires us with her journey towards self-care and self-love.

June 25, 2020

Seeking Healthcare Treatment During a Pandemic

Since the dawn of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States, the Centers For Disease Prevention and Control has reported a 42 percent decrease in emergency room visits for non-COVID-19 related reasons.

But, people don’t just stop having emergencies, do they? Not likely.

Even as some states inch their way towards the green phase, a recent Primary Care Collaborative survey reports face-to-face doctor’s appointments are still 50 percent below their previous volume.

So, what’s it like to be an individual pursuing healthcare, despite a global pandemic?

In all honesty, it’s been nerve-racking for me – especially since I’m being tested for autoimmune disorders. This means I’m potentially in the high-risk category for COVID-19.

June 20, 2020

Happy Birthday My Love 2020

(Queue intercom voice) AHEM. We’re here to interrupt your regularly scheduled Burgundy Zine content with a very special, incredibly important public service announcement:

TODAY IS MY HONEY DARLING’S BIRTHDAY!!

May 31, 2020

Mirages

at the height of my thirst,
i tried to induce my own mirages,
eyes closed, mind picture-laiden with oasis collages,
at once, i sighed and sipped,
open-lipped,
but i still felt defeated,

May 22, 2020

To Walk the Sea by Sally Piper

Creative writing student Sally Piper shares an imagery-driven piece inspired by a local getaway near to her heart.

April 10, 2020

Falling Stars and Front Liners

Rip my heart out and ask me how it’s still beating,
Rip me in half and ask me how I’m still breathing,
You wouldn’t.