memory

i have the worst memory. i woke up this morning and had a really good line in my head, something profound, well worded, and funny, and i didn't write it down. now it's gone. occasionally i will remember things ,ater in the day if something jars my memory, but usually not. i buy little notebooks for just this reason, if i don't jot it down immediately i will never remember it. i have always envied people with good memories, and wished i could recall things that i thought or said, be able to flashback to a memory of some good time easily. that's one of the reasons i like to take pictures (even though i don't usually), because the photo is the only thing that i have to remind me of a particular trip or event. without the picture, i have to hope that someone else will talk about the "time we set off fireworks in a convenience store" so i can then go, "oh yeah!!! i totally remember that shit now!".

i read once that the reason the japanese take so many photographs (as per the stereotype) is because of their culture. work and efficiency obsessed, cram as much into the week vacation a spossible, see EVERYTHING, and take plenty of photos to look at later when you "have more time". it almost seems counter-intuitive to hustle on your vacation, and "enjoy" looking at the sights when you get back home.

to me there is a subtext of "no time to enjoy things now, i'll do it later", but there is no later, there is only now. i like japanese culture, especially with its contradictions. there is such a rich and interesting hostory which it seems they respect more than other cultures, yet at the same time japan is always on the leading edge of technology and what's next. you can see it reflected in the music, car design, and entertainment. we covet harley davidsons because they are a "classic motorcycle", whereas japanese bikes are the most futuristic looking you will ever find.