Sneakily taking the hinges off the doors of perception

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L.I. Underhill is a media critic and historian specializing in pop culture, with a focus on science fiction (especially Star Trek) and video games. Their projects include a critical history of Star Trek told through the narrative of a war in time, a “heretical” history of The Legend of Zelda series and a literary postmodern reading of Jim Davis' Garfield.

5 Comments

  1. kalyarn
    June 12, 2014 @ 3:47 am

    Amazon Prime paid for itself many times over when I was able to watch lots of classic Mister Rogers with my new son. Nostalgia certainly played a part, but I also think MR had magic in a bottle in his ability to actually connect with children (adults too) through the TV. Many children's shows did and continue to this, but, at least for my son, none came anywhere close to feeling like a live person was actually talking and listening to you (bits from classic Sesame Street might come closest). Additionally, I loved sharing all the workplaces MR visited or watched on tape – many long defunct no doubt – but that journey into how people worked or how stuff was made was its own invitation to broaden one's imagination, using new, unseen parts of the world as further springboards to new pretending. It should be required viewing for all kids, who are likely going to be watching TV in some form anyway.

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  2. Josh Marsfelder
    June 12, 2014 @ 7:14 am

    Beautifully put-I agree completely. Thanks so much for commenting.

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  3. Daru
    June 19, 2014 @ 8:07 pm

    If I had a 'like' button here I would do that for the above comment. Lovely.

    "He's one of the most universally beloved people who ever lived." You see, this essay is a revelation to me (that's why I come here after all). I was peripherally aware of Mr Rogers but had no idea of his impact or importance with regards to storytelling, the imagination and American television.

    I recent years I have gotten through performing as a storyteller, into working with kids – and the main thing I seek to do is to fire their imagination and to help inspire them. I tell you this guy, MR certainly has got it. Thanks again Josh.

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  4. Josh Marsfelder
    June 20, 2014 @ 6:03 pm

    Thank you so much for saying so: I'm particularly proud of this post, and it's wonderful to hear it resonated with you.

    I don't know if you get Amazon Prime or the iTunes store offerings are the same where you live, but I'd definitely recommend checking out his show over there if you get the opportunity. The Neighborhood is a breath of fresh air and a fine place to visit at any age.

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  5. Daru
    June 20, 2014 @ 9:01 pm

    Yes wonderful essay, I am loving getting opened up to new experiences here. I am on Amazon Prime in the UK, but sadly the show is not even available there on DVD for me. I will find a way to watch some as it looks really worth the time.

    Reply

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