Michael Malice: Thanksgiving Pirate Special | Lex Fridman Podcast #402
Dive into an exploration of humor's profound capacity with Michael Malice on the Lex Fridman Podcast, where the unexpected intersections of mirth, censorship, rebellion, and resilience are thoroughly unpacked. Malice, joined by host Lex Fridman, reveals how laughter has served as a clandestine weapon in societies besieged by totalitarian regimes, from North Korea to the Soviet Union. Paying homage to comedic mavens such as Norm Macdonald and Roseanne Barr, this episode augments the understanding of humor as a defiant spotlight on societal issues, reminding us that a joke can often be more than it seems.
The conversation doesn't stop at comedy; it's a sweeping journey through historical discourse, societal issues, cultural artifacts, and the art of interviewing. As intriguing as it is intimate, the podcast peels back the layers on Malice's personal philosophy of anarchism, his fascination with daily rituals, and the artistry of living. In sharing personal narratives intertwined with notions of trust, gratitude, friendships, and the nuances of human emotions, Malice and Fridman transport the listener to a space of profound introspection and optimistic outlook towards life's endless adventures.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Nov 25, 2023 episode of the Lex Fridman Podcast
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1-Page Summary
The Power and Purpose of Humor
Humor as a Tool for Coping and Rebellion
In the "Michael Malice: Thanksgiving Pirate Special" episode of the Lex Fridman Podcast #402, Michael Malice elucidates the significance of humor as more than just a source of amusement. His argument posits that humor acts as a necessary tool for individuals to cope with and transcend oppressive situations. Malice conveys how marginalized communities have historically employed comedy as a release valve, utilizing laughter as a quiet act of resistance.
Humor in the Face of Oppression and Political Regimes
Michael Malice and Lex Fridman discuss the role of laughter in combating the dreariness of totalitarian regimes, notably in North Korea and the former Soviet Union. Here, the inhabitants relied on humor as an underground form of rebellion and resilience, joking about the grim realities of their lives.
The Role of Comedians in Shaping Defiant Humor
Respect is shown to comedians like Norm Macdonald, Roseanne Barr, and Neil Hamburger who, through their distinctive comedic styles, challenged audience expectations. These comedians are celebrated for their unique and often defiant humor that, according to Malice and Fridman, draws attention to societal issues and brings a fresh perspective on the ordinary.
Cultural Conversations and Personal Reflections
Tackling Societal Issues Through Discourse
The conversation veers towards more serious societal issues where Malice discusses anti-Semitism online and introduces his "ambassador program," which he designed to foster societal acceptance. Additionally, the discussion extends to global political themes, disputing John Mearsheimer's offensive realism and asserting that cultural influence frequently has more potency than military power.
Grasping History's Lessons and Celebrating Historians
The richness of historical discourse is explored, with Malice showing appreciation for historians like Serhii Plokhii while pointing out the damaging impact of misuse of history in political contexts. They also stress how meaningful historical insights can inform current affairs.
Delving into Literary Significance and Cultural Artifacts
Malice reveals his broad interests, including his fascination with symbolism and artifacts ranging from the ancient deity Thoth to Patrick Nagel paintings and trilobite fossils. The conversation then branches into the art of interviewing and interpretation in literary works, underscoring an affinity for individuals' passions.
Philosophical Insights and Individual Experiences
Exploring Anarchism and Influential Anarchist Figures
Michael Malice identifies himself as an anarchist and discusses the ideology's variegated spectrum, mentioning historical figures such as Emma Goldman. However, he carefully avoids setting definitive criteria for judging human worth, leaving that concept open-ended.
The Art of Living: Routines, Artisanal Shaving, and Life's Milestones
On a more personal note, Malice talks about his passion for daily routines, like his use of artisanal shaving soaps, and commemorates life's milestones through the collection of artifacts, such as a sculpture from artist Jake Michael Singer. These interests underpin a broader theme of self-improvement.
Dissecting Happiness: Emotions, Fears, and Mortality
The podcast doesn't shy away from diving into the complexities of human emotion. Malice differentiates between sadness and depression, discusses the broader societal concerns that he perceives as real fears and how he comes to terms with the idea of mortality.
Trust, Gratitude, and Relational Dynamics
Navigating Betrayal and the Complexities of Trust
Malice and Fridman delve into personal experiences of betrayal. Malice acknowledges the betrayal he has faced but underscores the importance of not allowing those incidents to affect his future relationships. They also discuss the nuances of trust and loyalty, particularly given their public personas.
The Impact of Positivity and the Power of Support
With a pivot towards the affirmative, the conversation reflects on the enduring value of fostering support networks and the profound effect one can have on the lives of others. Malice shares his pride in being a supportive influence, reinforcing the significance of positive engagements.
The Beauty of Friendship and the Journey of Grateful Living
The sense of gratitude is prevalent throughout the discussion, with both Fridman and Malice revealing their capacities to find awe in the seemingly mundane and highlighting the value they place on their enduring friendship.
Embracing the Future with Courage and Optimism
Concluding the podcast, Fridman fittingly shares a quote from Andre Gide which encapsulates the need for bravery in embarking on new adventures. This sentiment ties back to the exploratory spirit that permeates the episode, marking a fitting end to an expansive, reflective conversation.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- John Mearsheimer's offensive realism is a theory in international relations that emphasizes the competitive and conflictual nature of the international system. It posits that states are primarily concerned with their own security and survival, leading them to prioritize power and military capabilities. Offensive realism suggests that states will act aggressively to maximize their power and influence in a self-help world. Mearsheimer's theory contrasts with defensive realism, which focuses more on states seeking security and maintaining the status quo.
- Anarchism encompasses a diverse range of ideologies and beliefs, leading to a spectrum of interpretations and practices within the movement. This spectrum includes various schools of thought such as individualist anarchism, social anarchism, anarcho-communism, anarcho-syndicalism, and more. Each branch of anarchism emphasizes different aspects of freedom, equality, and organization, resulting in a wide array of perspectives on how society should be structured without hierarchical authority. Anarchist figures like Emma Goldman and Mikhail Bakunin have contributed to shaping this multifaceted spectrum through their writings and activism.
- Artisanal shaving soaps are handcrafted grooming products made by skilled artisans using high-quality, natural ingredients. These soaps are known for their luxurious lather and skin-nourishing properties, offering a traditional and indulgent shaving experience. They often come in a variety of scents and formulations tailored to different skin types, providing a personalized touch to the daily grooming routine. Enthusiasts appreciate artisanal shaving soaps for their attention to detail, unique fragrances, and the overall elevated shaving experience they provide.
- Thoth is an ancient Egyptian deity associated with wisdom, writing, and magic. Often depicted with the head of an ibis or a baboon, Thoth was considered the inventor of writing and the scribe of the gods. He played a crucial role in Egyptian mythology as a mediator and arbitrator, overseeing matters of language, science, and the divine. Thoth's influence extended to various aspects of Egyptian culture, symbolizing knowledge, balance, and the mysteries of the universe.
- Patrick Nagel was an American artist known for his distinctive illustrations that often featured the female form. He gained popularity for his work in various mediums, including Playboy magazine and album covers for musicians like Duran Duran. Nagel's style was influenced by Art Deco and pop art, and his art is celebrated for its sleek and stylized aesthetic.
- Trilobite fossils are remnants of ancient marine arthropods that lived over 250 million years ago. These creatures were highly diverse and existed for nearly 270 million years. Trilobite fossils have contributed significantly to fields like biostratigraphy, paleontology, and evolutionary biology. They are known for their easily fossilized exoskeletons, leaving behind a rich fossil record that aids in understanding Earth's history.
Counterarguments
- While humor can be a coping mechanism, it may not always be effective for everyone, and some individuals may require more direct forms of addressing oppression.
- The use of comedy as a form of resistance could be seen as trivializing the severity of oppressive situations if not done thoughtfully.
- Laughter might provide temporary relief from oppressive regimes, but it does not change the political situation and could be considered a passive form of resistance.
- The role of comedians in challenging societal norms can sometimes reinforce stereotypes or offend, even if unintentionally.
- The assertion that cultural influence is often more powerful than military might could be contested with historical examples where military intervention has led to significant changes.
- While historical insights are valuable, the interpretation of history can be subjective and influenced by present-day biases.
- Anarchism, as an ideology, has its critics who argue that it is impractical or that it overlooks the complexities of human nature and society.
- Personal routines and the collection of artifacts, while meaningful to some, may not be universally seen as a path to self-improvement.
- Discussions on emotions, fears, and mortality can vary widely in perspective, and some may find Malice's views too individualistic or not universally applicable.
- The conversation about betrayal and trust might not address the complexities of these issues in depth, and some listeners may find the advice given too simplistic.
- The emphasis on positivity and support networks might overlook the challenges and nuances involved in building and maintaining such networks.
- The value placed on friendship and gratitude, while generally positive, might not acknowledge the difficulties some people face in forming and sustaining friendships.
- The call for courage and optimism in facing the future may not resonate with everyone, especially those who are currently struggling or facing significant hardships.
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The Power and Purpose of Humor
Humor as a Tool for Coping and Rebellion
In the 'Michael Malice: Thanksgiving Pirate Special' episode of the Lex Fridman Podcast #402, Michael Malice elucidates the significance of humor as a necessary tool for coping with and transcending oppressive situations, not just a source of amusement. While emphasizing its persistence under severe repression like in North Korea, Malice also shares lighter, personal anecdotes reflecting his family's use of humor.
He recounts a story of his young nephew, Lucas, making a prank call to his grandmother, pretending Michael was in the hospital, highlighting the playfulness within his family. Malice also describes an incident where his family humorously indulged his fabrication of a story about his younger sister having surgery to fix asymmetrical eyes, revealing a shared familial sense of humor.
Lucas's inquisitive humor added warmth to a social event at Mar-a-Lago where he pondered the origin of women's beauty, demonstrating humor's role in bringing joy and laughter to family gatherings. Additionally, Lex Fridman contributes his thoughts on how humor, particularly within the Soviet culture, served as a layer of dark wit, with the Russian language allowing a rich tapestry of humor through linguistic subtleties and cultural references.
This conversation showcases laughter as an underground form of rebellion and resilience, notably in North Korea and the Soviet Union.
Humor in the Face of Oppression and Political Regimes
Michael Malice and Lex Fridman discuss the role of laughter in combating the dreariness of totalitarian regimes, notably in North Korea and the former Soviet Union. Here, the inhabitants relied on humor as an underground form of rebellion and resilience, joking about the grim realities of their lives.
Malice extends this theme by sharing a humorous anecdote about his consideration of getting a comical tattoo of a political dictator, likely Kim Jong Il, who he has researched extensively. This anecdote serves as a direct example of employing humor to comment on and cope with the absurdities of oppressive political figures.
The Role of Comedians in Shaping Defiant Humor
Respect is shown to comedians like Norm Macdonald, Roseanne Barr, and Neil Hamburger who, through their distinctive comedic styles, challenged audience ex ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The Power and Purpose of Humor
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The Lex Fridman Podcast is a popular long-form interview podcast hosted by Lex Fridman, a researcher at MIT with a focus on artificial intelligence. In each episode, Fridman engages in in-depth conversations with a wide range of guests, including scientists, technologists, artists, and public figures, discussing topics such as AI, psychology, philosophy, and more. Episode #402 specifically features Michael Malice, a political commentator and author, discussing the significance of humor in coping with oppressive situations and its role in rebellion and resilience. Fridman's podcast is known for its thoughtful discussions and diverse array of guests, making it a platform for exploring complex ideas and personal stories.
- Mar-a-Lago is a resort and National Historic Landmark in Palm Beach, Florida, owned by Donald Trump. It was originally built for Marjorie Merriweather Post and later acquired by Trump in 1985. The property has served as a residence and a members-only club, with Trump designating it as his primary residence since 2019. The resort extends from the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Worth Lagoon, hence the name "Mar-a-Lago," which means "sea-to-lake" in Spanish.
- Soviet culture was shaped by the ideologies and practices of the Soviet Union, a socialist state that existed from 1922 to 1991. It encompassed various aspects of life, including art, literature, music, and humor, reflecting the values and beliefs promoted by the communist regime. Soviet culture was influenced by state censorship and propaganda, leading to the development of unique forms of expression and underground movements. Humor played a significant role in Soviet culture as a means of coping with political repression and expressing dissent in a society where freedom of speech was limited.
- Norm Macdonald's comedic style is characterized by deadpan delivery, where he delivers jokes with a straight face and minimal emotion. He often employs anti-humor, where the punchline is intentionally unfunny or unexpected, subverting traditional joke structures. Macdonald's humor is known for its subtle wit, clever wordplay, and willingness to push boundaries, often leading to polarized reactions from audiences. His comedic approach challenges conventional expectations, creating a unique and memorable comedic experience.
- Roseanne Barr participated in an edgy photoshoot for a satirical publication, which involved her posing in a provocative or controversial manner for the purpose of humor or social commentary. This type of photoshoot typically involves pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms through visual representati ...
Counterarguments
- While humor can be a coping mechanism, it may not always be effective for everyone, and some individuals may require more substantial forms of support and intervention.
- The persistence of humor under severe repression does not negate the very real suffering and trauma experienced by individuals in those situations.
- Personal anecdotes about humor within families may not be universally relatable, as family dynamics and senses of humor can vary greatly.
- Humor at family gatherings can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or hurt feelings if not everyone shares the same sense of humor.
- The dark wit found in Soviet culture may not be fully appreciated or understood by those outside of that cultural context, potentially leading to misinterpretation.
- While laughter can be a form of rebellion, it is not a substitute for actual political action or change.
- The effectiveness of humor as a tool against totalitarian regimes is difficult to measure and may not have a significant impact on the regime itself.
- Using humor to cope with oppressive political figures can sometimes trivialize the severity of their actions and the suffering of their victims.
- Comedians who challenge audience expectations may sometimes cross the line into offensiveness or insensitivity, alienating certain audience members.
- The fine line that comedy treads can somet ...
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Cultural Conversations and Personal Reflections
Tackling Societal Issues Through Discourse
The conversation veers towards more serious societal issues where Malice discusses the unique and severe nature of anti-Semitism online, extending historically to direct calls for violence against Jews, which surpasses other bigotries in its extremism. Referencing
Grasping History's Lessons and Celebrating Historians
The richness of historical discourse is explored, with Michael Malice expressing his perspective on Anne Applebaum's work on the Soviet era. He also criticizes the inappropriate comparisons of current political figures to historical atrocities, such as equating Vladimir Putin's actions with those of Joseph Stalin, or comparing George Soros with Anne Frank, which he views as distortions of history and morally distasteful.
Fridman and Malice delve into the complexities of topics such as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, praising historians for their ability to narrate historical events with the compelling depth of a novel, making intricate subjects accessible and engaging for the audience.
Delving into Literary Significance and Cultural Artifacts
Malice reveals his broad interests, including his fascination with symbolism and artifacts ranging from the ancient deity Thoth to Patrick Nagel paintings and trilobite fossils. The conversation opens with a playful tone as they engage in a whimsical discussion, including a mock interaction with a parrot. His workspace is humorously graced by a mummified ibis, an item he finds both amusing and supervisory.
Furthermore, he possesses a rare male-centric painting by Patrick Nagel, famous for female portraits, showcasing Malice's distinc ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Cultural Conversations and Personal Reflections
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Equating Vladimir Putin's actions with those of Joseph Stalin involves drawing parallels between the leadership styles, policies, and impact on society of the two leaders. This comparison often focuses on authoritarian tendencies, suppression of dissent, human rights violations, and the consolidation of power through oppressive means. Critics argue that likening Putin to Stalin oversimplifies complex historical contexts and the scale of atrocities committed during Stalin's regime.
- Comparing George Soros with Anne Frank is a controversial and sensitive issue that involves equating a Holocaust survivor and diarist (Anne Frank) with a billionaire philanthropist and political figure (George Soros). Such comparisons are often criticized for trivializing the Holocaust and diminishing the unique suffering of its victims. The comparison is typically made in the context of political rhetoric or conspiracy theories that seek to demonize Soros by drawing parallels to historical figures like Anne Frank. This comparison is widely considered inappropriate and disrespectful to the memory of Anne Frank and the millions who perished in the Holocaust.
- Patrick Nagel was an American artist known for his distinctive illustrations that often featured the female form. His work was influenced by Art Deco and pop art styles. Nagel gained popularity for his illustrations in Playboy magazine and his iconic album cover design for Duran Duran's album Rio.
- Trilobite fossils are remnants of ancient marine arthropods that lived over 250 million years ago. They are significant in paleontology for their diverse forms and long evolutionary history. Trilobites played a crucial role in understanding Earth's past through their well-preserved fossil records. These extinct creatures existed for millions of years and are essential in studying evolution and ancient ecosystems.
- A mummified ibis is a preserved bird, often associated with ancient Egyptian religious practices. It is a cultural artifact that holds symbolic significance in Egyptian history and beliefs. The process of mummification was not limited to humans in ancient Egypt, as animals like ibises were also mummified for various reasons. The presence of a mummified ibis in the context mentioned indicates a connection to ancient Egyptian culture and beliefs.
- Thoth is an ancient Egyptian deity a ...
Counterarguments
- While Malice emphasizes the severity of online anti-Semitism, one could argue that other forms of bigotry, such as racism or homophobia, can also reach extreme levels of hatred and violence online, and that all forms of bigotry are harmful and should be addressed with equal seriousness.
- Some may contend that while direct comparisons of contemporary political figures to historical atrocities can be distasteful, they can sometimes serve as hyperbolic warnings or reminders of past mistakes, encouraging vigilance against potential authoritarianism or human rights abuses.
- There might be a perspective that while historians do provide depth to historical events, they are not immune to biases and may sometimes present narratives that reflect their own perspectives or the prevailing ideologies of their times, which can lead to a skewed understanding of history.
- Regarding Malice's interest in symbolism and artifacts, an alternative view could be that while these items are fascinating ...
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Philosophical Insights and Individual Experiences
Exploring Anarchism and Influential Anarchist Figures
Michael Malice identifies himself as an anarchist, embracing a broad spectrum of anarchist ideologies and appreciating their distinct contributions and historical bravery. Unlike what's detailed in the summary, he specifically cites activist Emma Goldman as an influential figure in the anarchist movement, whose discussions are worth having.
His acknowledgment of Goldman adds a dimension to his anarchist philosophy, linking past historical figures with current ideological beliefs.
The Art of Living: Routines, Artisanal Shaving, and Life's Milestones
Michael Malice shares about his personal tradition of commemorating life's milestones through the collection of meaningful artifacts.
In addition, he elaborates on his meticulous grooming routine which includes a diverse collection of 67 artisanal shaving soaps, highlighting his enjoyment of finer details in life. Malice has a systematic process for sampling and evaluating new shaving soaps to include in his rotation, underscoring his commitment to personal care rituals.
He provides specific recommendations for shaving supplies, praising the scents offered by producers like Ion Skincare (formerly Grooming Department), Barrister and Mann's Cheshire soap, and Chiseled Face's Midnight Stag. These scents are significant to Malice for their ability to evoke distinct, personal memories, showing his appreciation for the powerful sensory experiences they provide.
Dissecting Happiness: Emotions, Fears, and Mortality
The podcast delves into the complexities ...
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Philosophical Insights and Individual Experiences
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Anarchist ideologies encompass a range of beliefs advocating for the abolition of hierarchical systems of power and authority. These ideologies prioritize individual freedom, voluntary cooperation, and decentralized forms of organization. Anarchist thinkers have historically contributed diverse perspectives on social change, resistance to oppression, and the reimagining of societal structures. Their ideas challenge traditional notions of governance and offer alternative visions for creating more equitable and liberated societies.
- Emma Goldman was a prominent anarchist and feminist activist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She advocated for a wide range of political and social issues, including workers' rights, free speech, and women's liberation. Goldman's lectures and writings were influential in shaping anarchist thought and activism in the United States and beyond. Her emphasis on individual freedom, direct action, and opposition to authority made her a key figure in the history of anarchism.
- Michael Malice has a personal tradition of collecting meaningful artifacts to commemorate significant moments in his life. These artifacts hold sentimental value and serve as tangible reminders of important milestones. Malice's practice reflects his appreciation for the past and his desire to create lasting memories through physical objects. This tradition adds a layer of depth and personal significance to his life experiences.
- Artisanal shaving soaps are handcrafted grooming products made with high-quality ingredients. They offer unique scents and textures, providing a luxurious shaving experience. Michael Malice's extensive collection and meticulous evaluation of these soaps reflect his attention to detail and appreciation for sensory experiences. The scents of these soaps hold personal significance for Malice, evoking specific memories and enhancing his grooming ritual.
- The d ...
Counterarguments
- Anarchism, while advocating for the absence of a state, can be criticized for lacking a clear and practical roadmap for maintaining order and ensuring the protection of individual rights in the absence of a governing body.
- The collection of artifacts to commemorate life milestones, though personally meaningful, may not be a sustainable practice for everyone, as it can lead to material clutter or an overemphasis on physical possessions.
- A meticulous grooming routine with a large collection of artisanal shaving soaps could be seen as an indulgence that may not align with minimalist or environmentally conscious lifestyles that prioritize reducing consumption and waste.
- The systematic sampling and evaluation of shaving soaps, while thorough, may be considered an excessive investment of time and resources into a routine activity.
- Recommendations for specific shaving supplies are subjective and may not universally appeal to all individuals, as scent preferences are highly personal and can vary widely.
- The distinction between situational low moods and depression may oversimplify the complex nature of mental health conditions, and such a viewpoint could i ...
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Trust, Gratitude, and Relational Dynamics
Navigating Betrayal and the Complexities of Trust
Malice and Fridman delve into personal experiences of betrayal. Malice acknowledges the betrayal he has faced but underscores the importance of not allowing those incidents to affect his future relationships. He admits to struggling with empathy for his betrayers, as such a betrayal would heavily burden his conscience, revealing his personal moral standards and the emotional challenges associated with such experiences.
They also discuss the nuances of trust and loyalty, particularly given their public personas.
The Impact of Positivity and the Power of Support
With a pivot towards the affirmative, the conversation reflects on the enduring value of fostering support networks and the profound effect one can have on the lives of others.
Malice shares his pride in being a supportive influence, reinforcing the significance of positive engagements.
The Beauty of Friendship and the Journey of Grateful Living
The sense of gratitude is prevalent throughout the discussion, with both Fridman and Malice revealing their capacities to find awe in the seemingly mundane and highlighting the value they place on their enduring friendship. Fridman specifically voices his appreciation for the discussions and advice he has received from Malice over time.
The episode features a heartfelt exchange where both men express gratitude for the enduring nature of their friendship, indicatin ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Trust, Gratitude, and Relational Dynamics
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Malice and Fridman's public personas are the images or identities they project to the public through their professional work, public appearances, and social media presence. These personas can shape how they are perceived by others and influence their interactions and relationships in the public eye. Malice and Fridman may have cultivated specific images or reputations that align ...
Counterarguments
- Trust after betrayal can sometimes be beneficial to future relationships, as it can lead to more cautious and informed decision-making.
- Struggling with empathy for betrayers might sometimes hinder personal growth and forgiveness, which can be important for moving on.
- Trust and loyalty in public personas can be more complex due to the influence of public perception and the need for personal branding.
- While fostering support networks is important, over-reliance on others can sometimes inhibit individual autonomy and self-reliance.
- Positive engagements are significant, but it's also important to acknowledge and address negative emotions and conflicts for a balanced approach to relationships.
- Expressing gratitude for friendship is valuable, but it's also crucial to recognize and work on the imperfections and challenges within friendships to strengthen them.
- Finding awe in mundane things is enriching, but it's also necessary to engage with and address the larger societal and personal issues that may not be as uplifting.
- Being a supportive influence is commendable, but it's also important to set boundaries to ensure one's own well-being isn't compr ...
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