Other books that might interest you

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  Revolutionary Desires - The...

  Xuanlin Tham

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  Sex on screen is unnecessary, gratuitous, and serves no purpose. This is the sentiment on the rise as cinema becomes less and less sexy.
  Xuanlin Tham counters that sex scenes can open our minds and bodies to the possibility of new futures, and seduce us towards an expanded political imagination. Through The Matrix Reloaded, Lingua Franca and beyond, Revolutionary Desires explores how the form's intimacies, transgressions, and dedication to pleasure can be uniquely poised to rupture dominant narratives of capitalism and the violences that flow from it.
  Why is the sex scene, demonised as it is, therefore more politically important and subversive than ever? And how can it power a desire for something more?

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  The Story of the Country House -...

  Clive Aslet

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  The fascinating story of the evolution of the country house in Britain, from its Roman precursors to the present 
   
   
   
  The Story of the Country House is an authoritative and vivid account of the British country house, exploring how they have evolved with the changing political and economic landscape. Clive Aslet reveals the captivating stories behind individual houses, their architects, and occupants, and paints a vivid picture of the wider context in which the country house in Britain flourished and subsequently fell into decline before enjoying a renaissance in the twenty-first century. The genesis, style, and purpose of architectural masterpieces such as Hardwick Hall, Hatfield House, and Chatsworth are explored, alongside the numerous country houses lost to war and economic decline. We also meet a cavalcade of characters, owners with all their dynastic obsessions and diverse sources of wealth, and architects such as Inigo Jones, Sir John Vanbrugh, Robert Adam, Sir John Soane and A. W. N. Pugin, who dazzled or in some cases outraged their contemporaries. The Story of the Country House takes a fresh look at this enduringly popular building type, exploring why it continues to hold such fascination for us today.

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  Tumhari Auqaat Kya Hai Piyush...

  Piyush Mishra

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  'Hamlet realized that he was living in his dreams. Indeed, he had accidentally stepped into the world's greatest profession.' 
  Piyush Mishra's life has never followed a script. From a turbulent childhood in Gwalior to his years of artistic rebellion at the National School of Drama, and his complicated journey through fame, betrayal, addiction and self-sabotage, Mishra has always lived at the crossroads of despair and brilliance. 
  In Tumhari Auqaat Kya Hai, Piyush Mishra, a story resounding with dark humour and lyrical rage, he holds nothing back. Through his alter ego Santap Trivedi, also known as Hamlet, Mishra presents a brutally honest self-portrait—of a man grappling with the weight of expectations, the intoxication of celebrity life, the poignant struggle of relationships and the lifelong, restless pursuit of meaning through art. 
  Raw, unsettling and electric, this is a memoir unlike any other—it is a howl against conformity and a testament to survival. It is an ode to a life well-lived, in style.

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  Luba Empire - Central Africa's...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The Luba Empire emerged as one of the most influential kingdoms in Central Africa during the pre-colonial period. Rooted in a rich tradition of oral history and cultural heritage, the empire played a central role in shaping trade, political organization, and social structures throughout the region. The Luba people developed a sophisticated society that not only thrived on local commerce but also participated in expansive regional networks, connecting diverse communities across the African continent. 
  The formation of the Luba Empire was marked by a blend of indigenous traditions and innovative political practices. At its core was a system of governance that efficiently harnessed local resources, maintained internal stability, and forged strategic alliances with neighboring groups. This centralized authority, balanced by localized autonomy, enabled the empire to mediate conflicts and expand its influence through both diplomatic and military means. The administrative techniques developed during this era laid the groundwork for a resilient state capable of adapting to shifting economic and social dynamics. 
  Economically, the Luba Empire became a beacon of trade and craftsmanship. Its strategic location allowed it to serve as a vital crossroads for commerce, facilitating the exchange of valuable goods such as salt, iron, and agricultural products. The empire’s success in trade was not only a product of its abundant natural resources but also of the innovative methods its people employed in agriculture, metallurgy, and artisanal production. These economic activities formed the backbone of a prosperous society that celebrated both practical skills and cultural achievements, fostering an environment of continuous growth and learning.

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  Gupta Empire - Golden Age of Art...

  Rolf Hedger

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  The Gupta Empire, one of the most influential dynasties in Indian history, emerged in the early 4th century CE. It marked the beginning of a new era characterized by political stability, territorial expansion, and remarkable advancements in various fields. The foundation of the empire was laid by Chandragupta I, whose leadership and strategic alliances set the stage for the golden age that followed. 
  The origins of the Gupta dynasty remain somewhat obscure, but historical records suggest that they were a powerful regional clan in the Magadha region, present-day Bihar. Unlike the Mauryan Empire, which had a centralized administrative structure, the Gupta rulers adopted a more decentralized approach, allowing local rulers to maintain a degree of autonomy while still pledging allegiance to the empire. This governance model contributed to their long-lasting rule and ensured stability across their vast territories. 
  Chandragupta I, who ascended the throne around 320 CE, played a crucial role in the establishment of the empire. His most significant achievement was his matrimonial alliance with the Licchavi princess Kumaradevi, which not only strengthened his position but also expanded his influence in the fertile Ganges basin. This strategic marriage helped him consolidate power and gain the support of powerful regional factions. As a result, the empire's boundaries began to expand, laying the groundwork for future conquests.

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  Ear Training Course for Piano:...

  Julia Whitlock

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  Hi, fellow music lover! Congratulations on starting your music-making journey. 
  This lesson is broken into several chapters. The first part focuses on interval identification exercises, starting with grouped intervals and ending with all intervals mixed up. The second part of the book focuses on extremely valuable exercises with the help of fifths. The third part is a simple yet powerful exercise that allows you to manifest the sound of each interval even more. 
  The fourth part focuses on chord identification exercises, starting with grouped chords and ending with all chords mixed up. The fifth part of the book focuses on extremely valuable exercises with the help of a drone. The last part brings you very close to a real-life situation. Short chord progressions played by either a full band or a solo piano put your ears to the final test. 
  Best of all, this lesson doesn’t limit itself to dry theory: after a brief introduction to every concept, we completely focus on listening exercises to sharpen your ear. 
  Oh, and before I forget, the most important tip of all: have fun! 
    
  What's inside the audiobook: 
  ·all intervals from minor second to major seventh covered 
  ·all triads, i.e., major, minor, suspended, augmented, diminished, covered 
  ·all commonly used sixth and seventh chords, i.e., major 6th, minor 6th, major 7th, dominant 7th, minor major 7th, minor 7th, minor 7 b5, covered 
  ·11+ hours of interval & chord exercises 
  ·calm & encouraging male narrator 
  ·bonus tracks preparing for real-life situations 
  ·holistic approach

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