“That’s a bloody Keralite!”

The words, laden with hostility, echoed behind me as the bike whizzed past. I wasn’t in the wrong—I was merely trying to overtake a bike that was moving frustratingly slow, eager to reach my destination. The man, having seen the number plate of my car registered in Kerala, continued showering foul words. This wasn’t the first time. In fact, this was the sixth year in Mysore, where such incidents stirred within me a deep and persistent question: Who am I?

Born in Andhra Pradesh to a mother from North Kerala (once part of Karnataka) and a father from Udupi in southern Karnataka, my life has been a mosaic of cultural intersections. Years of living across India and abroad have only added more layers to my identity. Yet, incidents like this often force me to ponder the complexity of being an “Indian.” Who are we as a nation? What does it mean to belong to a country that exists, and yet, perhaps never truly existed?

A Fragmented Identity

One striking feature of Indians, particularly noticeable during my years abroad, is how we identify ourselves. Rarely do Indians introduce themselves as simply “Indian.” Instead, they say, “I’m from Kerala,” “from Tamil Nadu,” or “from Andhra Pradesh.” This is not a quirk but a reflection of a deeper truth: our allegiance to our states often supersedes our identity as a nation.

In India, the first great divide is between North and South Indians. In the North, the South is often pejoratively lumped together as “Madrasis”—a colonial-era term for all Dravidian states. Meanwhile, South Indians, in turn, harbor their own biases against Northerners. This regionalism is not limited to the broader North-South divide. Within states, there are further fissures: coastal versus inland, urban versus rural, North Kerala versus South Kerala, and so on. Every layer of identity adds another boundary, another perceived “other.”

Unity in Name Alone

India’s claim of “unity in diversity” often feels like a slogan that conceals the truth. Historically, the land that we now call India never was a unified nation, but a patchwork of kingdoms that frequently warred against one another. And from the Mauryas to the Mughals, from Vijayanagara to the Marathas, the history of this subcontinent is one of fragmentation. Even the name “India” is a colonial construct, and “Bharat” is no less contested, rooted in mythological claims rather than a cohesive national identity.

This reality is tactfully masked by statesmen and leaders. Yet, within this fractured history lies a paradoxical beauty: India is a land that embraces contradiction. Its culture absorbs and transforms, incorporating diverse beliefs and philosophies without erasing their uniqueness.

A Mosaic of Beliefs

Hinduism, so often miscast as a single religion, is in fact an aggregate of many beliefs. Shaivas worship Shiva, while Vaishnavas worship Vishnu. Charvakas, these ancient materialists who claimed God did not exist, formed part of the cultural mix. Atheism, animism, and ritualism all found places here. Even those rejecting Hinduism—such as Buddhists and Jains—prospered in its folds before eventually splitting off.

This ability to embrace differences has long been a defining feature of Indian society. It is this ethos that inspired sages to proclaim, Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti—“Truth is one; the wise call it by different names.” This inclusivity transcends religious dogma, hinting at a universal vision of humanity as one family: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

The Dangers of Division

Despite this philosophical foundation, regional and communal divisions persist. Tamil Nadu’s fierce love for its language and culture often leads to isolationism. Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh have their own regionalisms, often fueled by language, politics, or cultural pride. Even within states, divisions abound. For example, people from coastal Karnataka are sometimes viewed with suspicion by those from Bangalore, as if they were outsiders within their own state.

Painful as it is, it doesn’t happen only in India. COVID-19 exposed the vulnerability of human solidarity everywhere. Village, city, and neighborhood gates were closed to outsiders. Fear and the instinct to survive overwrote our shared humanity. The lesson was stark: human construct it is that raises barriers; no sooner erected than they come tumbling down.

A Higher Vision

What then holds India together? Perhaps it is not the idea of a nation, but the collective journey toward a higher understanding of existence. The sages of ancient India envisioned a world without boundaries, a space where life is not fragmented by caste, creed, or nationality. This vision, though often overshadowed by politics and prejudice, remains India’s greatest gift to the world.

Beyond nations, beyond humanity, lies the essence of existence—a boundless unity that transcends the constructs we have created. The air moves freely, rivers carve their paths without borders, and the pulse of life resonates in every being, from the tiniest microbe to the mightiest tree. Existence does not divide; it simply is.

This vision is not confined to the human realm. It is the recognition of life in its totality, a web of interconnectedness that holds no allegiance to divisions. It is the soil nourishing roots, the ocean cradling its creatures, the cosmos witnessing it all in silent stillness.  And within this expanse lies a truth: to exist is to belong, not to one identity, but to the vast, indivisible whole that is life itself.

Abstract

This article explores the deep connection between creativity, altered states of consciousness, and the transcendental by using the ritualistic art form of Theyyam from northern Kerala as an intellectually powerful metaphor. It conducts a study of the transformation journey of the Theyyam performer who, through dedication and ritual, becomes a vessel for divine energy like the creative process experienced by poets and artists. By investigating the ‘theta state—a state of being between wakefulness and sleep where visions occur’, the article discovers the mystical roots of creative expression as surrender to universal consciousness, continuing to reflect on suffering, purity, and compassion that forms individuals as vessels of higher truths and celebrates the holy essence of human creativity within an act of transcendence.

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Introduction: The Season of Theyyam

While winter heralds the festive cheer of Christmas and New Year across the globe, in Kerala’s northern regions, it is the season of Theyyam. A form of ritualistic worship combining dance, music, and mime, Theyyam is an integral part of Malabar’s sacred groves and temples. Known also as Kaḷiyāṭṭaṁ or Tiṟa, this art form channels divine energies, embodying deities and ancestral spirits, thus becoming a bridge between the mortal and the divine.

Theyyam transcends its mythological and religious roots to become a spiritual and psychological phenomenon, opening portals to higher states of consciousness. The performer’s journey from preparation to performance offers intriguing parallels to the creative process of poets and artists, shedding light on the mystical and metaphysical dimensions of human expression.

The Rituals of Transformation

The transformation of a performer into a Theyyam is an elaborate process rooted in devotion and discipline. Selected individuals undertake days of fasting (vrath) to purify their bodies and minds. On the day of the performance, the transformation begins with intricate body painting and donning of ornate costumes crafted from natural materials. This preparation is not merely cosmetic but symbolic, marking the transition from human to divine.

The climactic moment occurs when the Theyyam confronts their own reflection in a mirror, accompanied by the rhythmic crescendo of drums. This act of self-recognition as a divine entity triggers a trance state, where the performer transcends their ordinary self, embodying the deity. The subsequent dance, fierce and entrancing, captivates the devotees, who perceive the Theyyam as a conduit for divine blessings.

In this trance, the performer often utters prophecies or revelations, seemingly accessing a realm beyond the conscious mind. After the ritual, the performer returns to their human state, a humbling reminder of the ephemeral nature of this transcendence.

The Mystical Trance: A Gateway to Universal Consciousness

This trance state is not only characteristic of religious rites. It echoes through all the creative processes amongst poets and musicians as well, where they often describe that their work originates from an altered state of consciousness. The phenomenon can be understood by the theta state, a phase between wakefulness and sleep, when the mind is crossing over from being conscious to the universal.

The theta state is that of high creativity and intuition and better insight. For poets and artists, it is in this meditative space that their works take shape. They often report that their creations “flow through them” and are not consciously crafted. That does the same thing as the Theyyam experience. Here, the performer is also the vessel, but one for divine expression.

Pain, Purity, and the Conduit of Creation

A recurring theme in the lives of great poets and artists is the presence of profound suffering. Tragedy and pain, while deeply personal, serve as crucibles for purification, enabling individuals to become better conduits for universal expression. This echoes the life of the Theyyam performer, whose physical and mental discipline during fasting and preparation mirrors the purification process.

The purified mind and body, unencumbered by ego, allow for a direct connection to the universal consciousness. Just as a well-tuned instrument produces harmonious music, a pure and compassionate individual becomes an ideal medium for creative revelation.

Creativity: A Revelation, Not an Effort
The creative process, much like the trance of Theyyam, is often described as a revelation. Many poets and writers admit that their finest works feel as though they were “given” to them, rather than consciously written. This aligns with the idea that we are receptors of a greater intelligence, much like devices accessing the internet from a single cloud source.

The key lies in becoming a pure channel for this universal intelligence. When ego and self-assertion are removed, creativity flows naturally. A poet does not write a poem; a poem is written through the poet. I earnestly believe that a poet who consideres that ‘he’ has written a poem, should immediately stop calling himself a poet. He is just an instrument for expressing universe’s higher intelligence. This humility and surrender are crucial for genuine artistic expression.

Intoxication and the Perils of Shortcuts

Throughout history, many artists have sought shortcuts to the theta state through intoxicants. While these substances can temporarily unlock the doors to altered states of consciousness, they often exact a heavy toll on the body and mind, leading to tragic outcomes. The disciplined approach of the Theyyam performer, rooted in devotion and ritual, offers a sustainable and profound path to transcendence, emphasizing purity and preparation over quick fixes.

 

 

The Universal Dance of Creation

The essence of all great creativity and spiritual experience lies in attaining the ability to transcend the conscious mind into theta state or that liminal realm wherein the individual self disappears and the mind channels universal consciousness. In this state, creativity flows freely, not as a conscious effort but as an inspired revelation, a gift from a higher plane of existence. Stepping into the divine through ritualistic trance, the Theyyam performer and the poet, crafting verses in the stillness of night, are expressions of this sacred communion with the infinite.

This state of consciousness is not some rarefied, mystical or aesthetic reserve that only a few have access to; it’s a universal resource, available to anyone who is willing to lay down their ego and find themselves in harmony with the pulse of the cosmos. It is in theta that revelations happen, intuition unfolds, and the most profound insights are achieved-not as the result of thought, but as a flow from the ocean of superconsciousness common to all.

This state doesn’t only allow creativity but also changes the personality. The practice, the suffering, and the purification needed to attain this state give a refinement to the soul by introducing qualities such as compassion, humility, and interconnectedness with the universal. By becoming a vehicle for divine energy, an artist, seeker, or performer raises not only their own life but the consciousness of humanity as well. Thus, it’s not a doorway to creativity-it’s a bridge to eternity and reminds us of our sacred role as channels through which the cosmos speaks.

Vision Statement

Heritage Village, Lovedale, aspires to be a sanctuary of simplicity, wisdom, and harmony. Rooted in timeless values, it seeks to foster a sustainable and serene lifestyle, offering individuals an opportunity to reconnect with nature, community, and their inner selves. Through holistic education, cultural preservation, and a commitment to self-sufficiency, Lovedale aims to build a legacy of wellness and compassion for humanity.

1. Introduction

In a world fraught with complexity and disconnection, Lovedale seeks to address the growing need for meaningful living. Through principles of Minimalism, Holism, and Mindfulness, this heritage village will serve as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking balance, wisdom, and purpose in their lives.

Lovedale is not merely a residential space; it is a thriving ecosystem where wellness, sustainability, and cultural preservation converge. With its offerings of Ayurvedic healing, self-sufficient farming, cultural enrichment, and educational programs, Lovedale aims to become a transformative force for humanity.

2. Objectives

• Foster mental and physical well-being through sustainable and holistic living.
• Preserve and promote traditional knowledge systems like Ayurveda, yoga, and classical arts.
• Create a model of self-sufficiency by integrating renewable energy, organic farming, and waste recycling.
• Build a compassionate community that supports the elderly, children, and vulnerable groups.
• Inspire and educate individuals through specialised courses, workshops, and research.

3. Key Principles

1. Minimalism: Encourage a life of simplicity and reduced materialism.
2. Holism: Address the well-being of body, mind, and spirit.
3. Mindfulness: Promote practices that enhance awareness, presence, and gratitude.

4. Compound Design and Facilities

Lovedale will be thoughtfully designed with eco-friendly and sustainable architecture. Key facilities include:

1. Nature and Sustainability:
   • Mini-forest with rare herbs and fruit trees.
   • Botanical gardens with a focus on medicinal plants.
   • Navagraha Vana (planetary garden).
2. Residential Facilities:
   • Comfortable cottages for participants and visitors.
   • Old-age home with specialised care.
   • Orphanage fostering community-based upbringing.
3. Wellness and Healing:
   • Ayurvedic Wellness Centre with Panchakarma facilities.
   • Yoga and Meditation Centre offering personalised retreats.
4. Cultural and Educational Facilities:
   • Cultural Centre showcasing Indian art, music, and dance.
   • Library and Research Centre for Vedic studies, literature, and media.
   • Training hubs for self-employment, especially for women.
5. Sustainability Hubs:
   • Dairy farm and organic vegetable gardens.
   • Biogas plant and composting facilities.
   • Solar and renewable energy integration.

5. Lovedale: A Haven for a Lifetime

Lovedale is not just a retreat for temporary rejuvenation; it is envisioned as a space where individuals can find a lasting sanctuary. Central to the project is a residential area, offering an opportunity for people to embrace serenity as a way of life.

This residential concept caters to those who seek to:

• Live Permanently Amidst Tranquility
  Imagine waking up each day to the gentle caress of nature, far from the din of modern life. Residents can choose to make Lovedale their permanent home, immersed in an environment that nurtures physical and spiritual well-being.
• Find a Periodic Escape
  For those who wish to take a break from their regular routines, Lovedale offers a retreat that feels like home. Residents can return as often as they desire to reconnect with themselves and recharge their spirits.
• Spend the Evenings of Life in Peace
  Lovedale provides an ideal setting for senior citizens to spend the golden years of their lives in comfort and peace. Surrounded by a supportive community and engaging activities, they can find fulfilment and meaning in each day.

A Meaningful Life, Enriched by Activities

Residents of Lovedale are not just passive recipients of its offerings but active participants in its vibrant ecosystem. Opportunities abound to:

• Engage in cultural, artistic, and intellectual activities.
• Participate in workshops and sessions on wellness, mindfulness, and creativity.
• Contribute to the foundation’s humanitarian initiatives, making their lives deeply meaningful.

This unique residential model blends personal serenity with community engagement, fostering a sense of purpose while maintaining the freedom of individual choice.

A Home that Heals

The residential area will be thoughtfully designed, blending modern comforts with traditional aesthetics to create spaces that exude peace. With nature as a constant companion, residents will experience healing not just within but also in their surroundings.

Lovedale’s residential concept offers not merely a place to stay but a way of life—a harmonious blend of rest, renewal, and contribution to a larger purpose. Whether one chooses it as a lifelong abode or an occasional refuge, Lovedale promises to be a sanctuary for the body, mind, and soul.

6. Programs and Activities

A Retreat for Rejuvenation and Self-Discovery

Our retreat is designed as a sanctuary for those seeking solace, vitality, and a break from the routine of daily life. It offers an opportunity to reconnect with oneself and experience a harmonious blend of activities aimed at rejuvenating the body, mind, and spirit.

The Healing Environment

Nestled amidst serene landscapes, our campus is a haven of peace, where the environment itself fosters healing and tranquillity. The architecture, natural surroundings, and curated spaces are designed to inspire mindfulness and inner peace.

Daily Activities

Participants are guided through a thoughtfully curated routine, including:

• Morning Yoga and Meditation: Awakening the body and calming the mind.
• Ayurvedic Daily Practices: Incorporating timeless rituals for balance and health.
• Cultural Activities: Engaging in music, dance, and art for creative expression.
• Discourses and Workshops: Exploring philosophy, spirituality, and personal growth.
• Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Therapies: Restoring vitality through authentic treatments and care.

Specialised Programmes

We offer tailored programmes catering to different life stages and needs:

Prerana: Inspiring Young Minds

A programme designed for children to foster:

• Creativity through art, storytelling, and hands-on activities.
• Values and ethics through engaging narratives and discussions.
• Mindfulness practices to nurture emotional and mental well-being.

Deeksha: Empowering Adults

Focused on holistic health and self-discovery, this programme includes:

• Yoga and fitness tailored to individual needs.
• Workshops on stress management, time management, and goal setting.
• Insights into personal and professional growth through practical sessions.

Vimoksha: Enlightenment for Seniors

A programme dedicated to senior citizens, emphasising:

• Cultivating peace through reflective practices and dialogues.
• Discovering purpose through meaningful engagement.
• Physical and mental relaxation through light yoga and recreational activities.

A Venue for Writers Capital Foundation’s Signature Events

Once operational, the retreat will serve as a prestigious venue for the foundation’s hallmark events, including:

• Panorama International Literature Festival: Celebrating the art of words and ideas.
• Panorama International Arts Festival: Showcasing diverse artistic expressions.
• Global Nexus Series of International Conferences: Connecting intellectuals across fields.
• Global Vision Summit: A platform for envisioning a better future through collective thought.

Additional Ideas

• Nature Walks and Forest Bathing: Connecting participants with the therapeutic power of nature.
• Digital Detox: Encouraging a break from technology to foster mindful living.
• Community Living: Promoting social bonding and shared experiences through group activities.
• Workshops on Sustainable Living: Teaching practical methods for eco-friendly lifestyles.

This holistic retreat is not just a destination but a journey towards inner transformation and lasting peace. Let us create a space where every individual finds renewal, purpose, and inspiration.

7. Stages of Implementation

Stage 1: Land Acquisition and Preparation

• Identify and secure suitable land preferably in the serene neighbourhood of Mysore.
• Begin reforestation and preparation for construction.

Stage 2: Design and Infrastructure Development

• Work with architects specialising in green designs.
• Build essential structures: administrative buildings, cottages, wellness centres, etc.

Stage 3: Program Development

• Create and test courses for various age groups.
• Collaborate with experts in Ayurveda, yoga, and education.

Stage 4: Launch and Expansion

• Open the village to residents and visitors.
• Expand offerings based on feedback and community needs.

8. Sustainability Plan

1. Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and biogas for electricity and cooking.
2. Farming: Organic farming methods for food and fodder.
3. Waste Management: Recycling and composting to achieve zero waste.

9. Social Impact

1. Elderly Care: Provide a dignified life to abandoned elderly individuals.
2. Child Welfare: Empower orphaned children with education and life skills.
3. Empowering Women: Train women in self-employment skills to achieve financial independence.
4. Cultural Revival: Preserve and promote Indian art and heritage.

10. Budget Estimate

Preliminary Costs:

• Land acquisition
• Infrastructure development
• Sustainability initiatives
• Operational costs (yearly)

Funding Sources:

• Donations and grants.
• Crowdfunding campaigns.
• Revenue from courses, retreats, and product sales.

The Writers Capital International Foundation

The Writers Capital International Foundation (WCIF) is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to spreading humanitarian values through the transformative power of literature, art, and culture. With a presence in over 87 countries, WCIF unites creative minds across the globe to foster empathy, awareness, and positive change.

Our mission transcends borders, connecting communities and individuals through initiatives that celebrate the shared essence of humanity. By promoting creativity, sustainable living, and compassion, we strive to inspire a world where art becomes a catalyst for meaningful transformation.

The Retreat: A Vision of the Foundation

As an extension of the foundation’s ideals, this retreat embodies the core principles of WCIF—human connection, self-awareness, and holistic living. It offers an immersive space for individuals to rejuvenate their body, mind, and spirit while embracing the cultural, artistic, and intellectual ethos championed by the foundation.

The retreat not only provides a healing environment for individuals but also serves as a dynamic venue for WCIF’s signature global events, reinforcing its commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue and creative expression.

Signature Activities of the Foundation

The Writers Capital International Foundation has conceptualised and executed various prestigious initiatives that align with its mission:

1. Panorama International Literature Festival

A celebration of literature that brings together writers, poets, and literary enthusiasts from around the world. The festival promotes creative exploration while emphasizing humanitarian values.

2. Panorama International Arts Festival

A global platform for visual and performing artists to showcase their talent and inspire dialogue on global issues through creative expressions.

3. Global Nexus Series of International Conferences

A confluence of thought leaders, professionals, and scholars to deliberate on pressing challenges and innovative solutions across diverse disciplines.

4. Global Vision Summit

An extraordinary gathering of intellectuals, policymakers, and visionaries to discuss strategies for building a sustainable and compassionate world.

5. Writers International Edition

The publication division of the Writers Capital International Foundation that is primarily intended to publish quality books, especially by promising authors.

Integrating the Foundation’s Vision into the Retreat

The retreat will serve as a living embodiment of the foundation’s ethos, with a special focus on:

• Humanitarian Values: All programmes will emphasise compassion, empathy, and community well-being.
• Cultural Exchange: Activities will highlight global traditions, fostering understanding and unity.
• Creative Expression: Participants will engage in art, literature, and music, embracing the transformative power of creativity.
• Sustainability: Workshops and practices will promote eco-friendly living in harmony with nature.

The Retreat as a Venue for WCIF’s Events

The serene and inspiring environment of the retreat will host the foundation’s flagship programmes:

• Panorama International Literature Festival: Inspiring the global literary community amidst tranquil surroundings.
• Panorama International Arts Festival: A visual and sensory treat, uniting artists and audiences in a shared celebration of creativity.
• Global Nexus Conferences and Vision Summits: Providing a platform for groundbreaking ideas to shape the future.

By intertwining these prestigious events with the retreat’s ethos, we aim to offer participants an unparalleled experience of personal growth, cultural enrichment, and creative fulfilment.

10. Call to Action

Lovedale is a dream fueled by love for humanity and unwavering trust in the universe. To bring this vision to life, we invite:

• Philanthropists: To contribute to this transformative project.
• Volunteers: To share their expertise and passion.
• Partners: To collaborate in areas of wellness, education, and sustainability.

Together, let us create a sanctuary where life blooms in harmony with nature, and humanity thrives with purpose.

Writers Capital International Foundation
#5050, 5th Main, 3rd Cross, Vijayanagar Stage 2, Mysore
Karnataka, India

www.writerscapital.org
wcifcentral@gmail.com 

 

Silla Campanini, born under the eternal gaze of the Italian sun in 1954, has dedicated her existence to unraveling the enigmatic tapestry of artistic expression. From her earliest communion with nature’s ethereal whispers to her ascension as an esteemed image educator and luminary artist, Campanini’s odyssey has been a relentless pursuit of innovation and synergy. “Whispers of the Soul” is the primordial offering of poetic revelations from her spirit, anointed by the sacred chrism of color.

This primeval anthology of verse, or rather, an apocalypse of the soul’s most arcane mysteries, stands as an inviolable monument to the human experience, a literary apotheosis that transcends the ephemeral shackles of space and time. Within its hallowed pages, the poetess beckons seekers of truth to embark upon an extraordinary pilgrimage through the labyrinthine corridors of existence itself.

At its immaculate core, this tome is an exegesis of the profound synergy between the artistic muse and the ontological wellspring of being. Through a tapestry of incandescent poems and ruminations profoundly introspective, Campanini unveils the ineffable fabric of human emotion, weaving a mythopoeic narrative that is at once intimately personal and universally numinous. With each passage traversed, the reader is transported to liminal realms where love, loss, longing, and redemption coalesce in a symphonic apotheosis of feeling.

What consecrates “Whispers of the Soul” as a singular work is Campanini’s unparalleled aptitude to breathe the quintessence of life into her utterances. Her prose is imbued with a poetic sensibility so rarified, each sentence a spectral brushstroke upon the canvas of the reader’s imagination. Whether evoking the tender caress of a lover’s touch or the tempestuous roar of a raging maelstrom, her language is at once visceral and transcendent, rendering in vivid chiaroscuro the innermost landscapes of heart and mind.

Yet beyond its aesthetic consecration, this work stands as a profound exegesis of the human condition itself. Through her penetrating observations and musings abyssally introspective, Campanini plumbs the unfathomable depths of the psyche, confronting with unwavering courage and searing honesty the most arcane enigmas of the soul. In this sacred undertaking, she offers the reader an initiation into the ineffable mysteries of existence.

Moreover, “Whispers of the Soul” is a hierophantic testament to the power of mythopoesis. Through each numinous narrative she imparts, Campanini invites the reader to embark upon a transformative journey of self-apotheosis, challenging them to confront their phantasms, embrace their vulnerabilities, and fully integrate the totality of their being. The work thus serves as both a mirror refracting the manifold facets of the human experience and a beacon illuminating the arduous path towards self-actualization and gnosis.

In its comprehensive essence, “Whispers of the Soul” stands as an tour de force of literary transcendence and emotional epiphany. Through the rich mythopoeic tapestry of its words and emblematic imagery, Campanini summons the reader to plumb the profoundest depths of their own soul, to embrace the full cosmic spectrum of human emotion, and to find ultimate catharsis in the numinous beauty of the awakened spirit. It is a work that obliterates the illusory boundaries of space and time, leaving an indelible esoteric sigil upon the hearts and minds of all initiate readers.