After high school I moved to Minneapolis and spent the dead of winter in Minnesota working the graveyard shift at UPS. By default, everyone hated me and I hated being there so I moved home, got another dead end job and wasted a semester and a half at Riverland Community College thinking I could make something of myself (it wasn’t a waste because the college was “bad” but because I couldn’t make myself do the work and eventually got myself onto the academic probation list and thrown out). This is when I started producing music. How it all ended up working out, I’ll never know.
Mid-semester I read a short story by Ambrose Bierce for one of my required english courses, a story called “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge” that had a profound effect on me. It wasn’t until later that I discovered the 1962 French film adaptation that ended up changing my general outlook, my frame of mind, my point of perspective, and my entire life from that moment on. It was a hammer between the eyes and I remember driving my white beat-up 92′ Caravan to work at Coke with tears in my eyes because of the ironic and obvious spiritual comparisons between my life and the impact of the story.
Read it for yourself or watch the film if you wish to draw your own conclusions. I find both totally inspiring and incredibly powerful. The film is one of the most beautiful pieces of cinema I’ve ever seen.
People tend to ask me “why Owl City?” and it’s not the kind of answer I can explain in thirty seconds during a loud meet-and-greet while the opener is soundchecking in the same room two people are trying to converse in. Even if you and I had half an hour and a quiet coffee shop, it’s not that simple.
Make of it what you will. After reading the story or watching the film, I always walk away feeling like I’ve gotta start living… an emotion I believe we all need to feel more often than we do.
Each time I think about it, the character in the story is me… and all I have left is a little bit of time.
That’s why Owl City.
I’m going to be like the usual person and go “OMG FIRST COMMENT!” and just hope that I get it. So,
OMG FIRST COMMENT!
I knew there was a real explanation somewhere amongst the silly stories you usually tell. :)
i love your writing
Dear Adam,
You’re truly an inspiration! Can you possibly explain why Sky Sailing is the name of your other project?
Best of luck in your future endeavors and I’m so proud of how far along you have come in your life :)
I love that is says so much… with no words at all.
There is no way I’m not reading this story as soon as possible!! And then I’ll watch the film adaption, because you can never, ever, EVER judge a book by it’s movie. ;D
Lots of love!
OH, and I agree with @Fellow Minnesotan, it’d be interesting to hear the orgins of some of your other side project names as well. We love to hear anything you have to say, even when you talk about your kidney stones. ;P LOL <333
You put all your feelings in your music, Its like being an Author but with melodies. You dont have to say anything to say something. Its just how music strikes me and probably many others. Thats why ambiance etc can say so much, but your music has amazing words that let us fans live in your worlds you create. I really find it fascinating how you do it, such imagery. I know God put you in this place and I still think its just the beginning for you.
I was just telling someone about this story a couple days ago- really is one that caused me to think about my own life as well after reading it a couple of years ago. We are just like the flowers of the field on this earth- here for just a moment before we wilt and are gone. Yet our lives can be so much more if we take the time to make the most of what God has given us. Every second is a blessing. Never knew this is why you’re titled Owl City and that name means so much more to me now with this background to it. Thanks for sharing and your music has been such a blessing to me. As someone who has a tendency to be very introverted and uneasy to share with people I find such a comfort seeing the work you’re able to produce and what it must be like for someone like you and I to be in the limelight so much. As a graphic designer I often use your music as inspiration to listen to while I work and it’s such a great match to my own style. Thank you for what you’ve done.
God bless,
Haley
That’s awesome Adam! I am so gonna watch it. I’m so glad God has made your dream of singing and writing songs come true. Your a very blessed guy! :) Im not normal talkive outgoing girl. I’m the kind of girl who stands alone in a crowd of people, the girl who everyone calls shy, the girl who is glad there is someone like you who understands what it’s like to be a inervert! :) Us kind of girls are very blessed the Gos made you Adam! P.S. I love the name Owl City :)
That God made you. I meant to say lol love you Adam!
Adam, lately I’ve been in a rough patch. I haven’t been seeing myself as a great person. I feel like everyone either looks down on me or looks at me with a comedic bias. However, as the character in the film seems to do, I find a reason to reach past it. A reason to “live” like you said. Thank you. I believe I feel what you have felt.
Dear Adam,
It fills my heart with an immeasurable joy to once again gain a little bit insight into that beautiful mind of yours. I wish I could say I knew there was a more profound meaning to The name Owl City, but I must admit it was a most plesant surprise. I underestimated you, but it’s nice to have some truth amungst your other stories. I can’t express how much hope and inspiration you’ve given me. No one is more deserving of that oppertunity you’ve been given than you are. Thank you, for being you.
Most sincerely,
-just another fan
I am literally reading this short story right now in my English class. I almost died upon reading this post. So excited now, I can’t even begin to explain. Thank you Adam, for being amazing.
Time truly is valueable. Life truly is worth living. You simply never know when it’s going to end.
Thank you Adam for sharing this with us. You’re such an amazing person. I know you’ve probably heard that a thousand times and counting. I could never find the right words to describe you. I agree with Samantha, no one could be more deserving.
-Leigh
So this is the proper response to “why owl city?”
You oughta print this out,send it to every interviewer and tell them not to ask that question anymore XD
Dear Adam,
My dad actually showed me this film about a year ago. I watched it blindly. Thankfully, you gave me the chance to watch it again so I could see all things bright and beautiful about this film. This time I let it fill my mind like sunlight filling a child’s face. Thank you for sharing your moment.
-Lisa
I love it, someone updated the Wikipedia page for the book with a reference to this blog post. Your fans are on the job, Adam!
this. is. beautiful. thank you.
Brilliant. A name is quite an important thing which portrays and characterizes the very spirit of each person. Even though yours is a stage name, it still represents your heart of wanting to live each day to the fullest. Obviously, I’ve never met you but from what I’ve read about your life on here, I’d say you’re doing just that :)
Yesss that’s why Owl City. Your writting totally awesome. This one make my Monday beautiful. *and you make my stormy sky beautiful~*. Keep Adorable Adam, :).
Well, I’m glad you chose that name. I like owls which is why I first listened to your music. Your music is so beautifully and it’s just what I needed to hear. I love the way God works in these ‘just by chance ways’. So thank you and thanks to our Father, too.
This is one of my favorite posts! Thanks for answering a question that has been on my mind for quite sometime!
P.S Thanks for the Great Music! I really enjoy it!!
inpiring as always :) and i wouldn’t mind a couple hours in a coffee shop hearing about the origins of Owl City.
I saw the short film as an episode of The Twilight Zone (strange, isn’t it? That it would be an actual episode… apparently it had a big effect on Rod Serling as well!) and it totally shocked me. It was all I could think about for hours afterwards…. definitely an intense and profound story. Now I’ll probably think about it for the rest of the night. Ugh. Thanks a lot, Adam. (Haha!)
Dear Adam,
Guess I have a new book to read/movie to watch! Your artist name has so much more meaning now. God has blessed you so inmensely, and you have taken His blessings and you chose run with them. How great is the impact you now have… It’s nearly unbelievable. God bless you, and thanks for giving me something inspiring, I needed it.
Love,
Madeline
P.S. Good luck on your upcoming concerts!
“How it all ended up working out, I’ll never know.”
I think I know: God placed you in the position that you’re in “for such a time as this”. You glorify God and bless more people through your music than you will probably ever know.
the movie is La Rivière Du Hibou,
I knew you and your music had a huge impact on my thoughts before today (more than you will ever know..) but now there just seems to be so much more to it. You as a person were inspiring beforehand, but now, I see just how much more there is to be awed by. I’m glad to have had the chance too peer in on your thoughts, if only once.
Do what you love and love what you do, Mr. Young. You have saved me so much mental strife with your music, and you have made me think deeper about myself and my life today. For that I thank you.
And hey, I would sit in a coffee shop and listen to you talk about Owl City for hours on end any day. I would already be ecstatic from being in the same room as my icon, and trust me, I wouldn’t be going anywhere until you finished.
This is just so AMAZING! That film, at the end, made me tear up.
Adam, you are so amazing yourself! The story behind Owl City’s name is just awesome.
I also cannot understand how you were put in academic probation and kicked out. You speak (well, write) with such eloquence and your vocabulary is extraordinary that I cannot understand how you would have trouble in school. Of course, everyone is different and God just had a different plan for you. I’m sure glad he did.
Love your music, love you. Thanks for making my day/night.
God bless.
I love An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge. I remember watching the film adaptation in my Film and Culture college class. I like the name “Owl City” so much more now.
-Kate
i love this.. beautiful thing to share as always..
thank you, Adam
We miss you here in the Philippines..
-Dowephill
Hey, much delighted to read this blog at the very first day of our Chinese lunar year. “Owl City” is an owesome name!! And I’ll go and watch this film, which brought that much influence on you!
Words cannot express the feelings i have for you adam. Love you
You know what? Every reason you have ever said, or I have ever heard you have said, just adds to the reason it’s called Owl City. Whether it be the short ones, the long ones, or the funny ones. It just adds to who you are, even without Owl City.
And just to let you know, I would listen to the music even if you did call it “plain old boring” Adam Young.
Adam, I don’t know if you will actually read this, but thank you so much for this post. I watched the film and was really inspired by it and it helped me to realized that time on Earth is short and to use the time we have to do what is most important, serving God, in whatever ways we can. That is something I need to work more on and this video helped inspire and encourage me to do so. Thank you again for this entry and for being a constant help through your life and your music.
I knew there was probably a story. Though, I didn’t mind. I like the name Owl City. But thank you for sharing.
-Corinne
You inspire me all the time.
Thank you Mr. Adam Randal Young.
You are such a beautiful person.
May God bless you always.
You truly deserve every bit of blessing He has given you.
wow, i look at you, Adam, and i see me, at first i tryed to deny how much we were alike but the more i “study” you the more it seems that we are similar people. i am an introvert, in the extreme sense in some areas, i also have insomnia. i see you as a more able version of me, you have talent and people who admire you, i really cant think of anything that im good at and can put my life to good use in gods kingdom. i love your writing because it feels like im reading letters from an older wiser me, for you are 10 years older than me. i really want to meet you one day, not meet as in talk to you for a minute before you go on stage, meet as in sleeping on you couch for a couple of weeks and really getting to know you, anything less wouldn’t be enough, your the biggest inspiration i could ever have, i feel im in the stag of trying to make something of this life iv been given that you talk about in this blog, i feel you could give me so much advice, what advice would you give to a 15 year old boy? i guess id have to ask myself that when im 25. if there is anything i could do to help you along your road i would gladly do it, but at the moment im stuck in this hole of unknown futures
I’ve just watched it, it made me cry, why is this so sad ;___;? But I totally got it and I don’t know why, it warms my heart =’)
yeh.
there’s no wrong or right answer.
it’s just how you found yourself, right?
i like the way it happened to you years ago and now here we are and it’s so surreal to finally see who you are. You are no aground…
Omg , ce film est touchant , il n’y a pas de mot … c’est une belle inspiration que tu as pris pour ”owl city” !
Bref , je suis contente que tu fasses de la musique ,car je l’écoute tout les jours ! Je t’adore , viens faire un tour a Montréal!
I love how the video that you put with this, has a musical adaptation instead of words. It allows you to be able to study the faces and emotions of the chacters so much better because you don’t have to keep up with listening g to the words as well. This is a beautiful story and I love the way it shows his new outlook on everything, even the sand after his swim down the river (I’m from the South, we do that kind of thing all the time in mountain creeks), which is so normally uncomfortable and itchy, but he sees it as a newfound sense if security and land. Absolutely beautiful, Adam, thank you very much for this inspiration.
Mr Young.
Your surreal and incredibly vivid outlook on both your life and His creation around you will never cease to amaze, and inspire.
Thank you.
Dear Adam,
God surprises us a lot. There are many lessons to be learnt and many many things to discover in this short span of time we call life. Yet we always have the right amount of time and when we are by the side of Christ we are always at the right place and time of our lives. You need not be reminded(and i am the least capable to do so) but you are here with a purpose and the foremost purpose is that you will be yourself. You being yourself means you seeing what others can’t, hearing what others can’t and discovering what others can’t…and therefore you are the BEST BLESSING WHEN YOU ARE YOURSELF-leaving others more blessed than before!
I join Mr.Zeek and others in saying Thank You!
“It is not your business to succeed, but to do right. When you have done so the rest lies with God.” – C.S. Lewis
I could not do anything else than agree with all these blessed chaps and i join @Grace AKA Karsha in saying “I know God put you in this place and I still think its just the beginning for you.”
God bless and “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind”…”What saves a man is to take a step. Then another step.” – C.S. Lewis.
that film is sad :’(
well, God has plans for every human and His plans are the best. we shouldn’t be worry. Every things that happens in life has a reason and it all only to make ourselves better. God loves us.
Cheers!
it’s a sad story, isnt it? but at least the man in the story could dream, and i mean u must be the survived one :’( i am totally pround of u and what u have done. u are great, u have changed so many lifes :’) i hope you are doing well and keep going. god bless you <3 you are so loved as always:)
Literally such an intense film I didn’t realize it was a silent one till nine minutes in.
Thank you for sharing this with us, Adam! God bless you!
email me and I’ll give you permission to read my blog. if you want. i understand if you don’t.
Cool man. Love your blog
Just to the point- I love life changing movies- and lyrics. Adam give this a listen you won’t regret it. It will touch your heart as it did mine. much love <3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzU1tIXzsp8
I remember two years ago, my brother had lent me a book (The Norton Anthology of American Literature?) I think it was called, and me and two other girls took turns reading it out loud to each other. For some reason me and the two girls picked this story, and we deeply fell in love with it. It was so sad. But we all loved it. We were all so shocked that it ended that way. We had no idea it would.
Helps you think about the important things in life.
Thanks for posting this. You brought back a sweet memory that I will never forget.
Less and less of me, more and more of You. (Jesus)
Let the things of this earth pass away and the things eternal come down in our lifetime. No time to waste! Convicting, Adam. Great reminder.
-gabe
Dear Adam,
There’s something about French films that are both funny and scary at the same time. At least the funny little Frenchman got away, that’s the main thing.
I’m in college too, it’s such a drag. I know the feeling. I want to get a camper van too, but I am deprived of a job. Oh well, Jesus will assuredly show me the light.
Tom
Adam, I totally understand what you’re trying to say. That film is beautiful yet haunting. I cried at the end. I love that you called yourself Owl City because it’s so mysterious, yet fun on the outside. Which is totally you. I’m glad you posted this, I’ve been missing you. Not that you haven’t been on, just…it hasn’t been you. I like you better when you’re small-town humble Adam. Not big-name Owl City on tour. But hey, adrenaline affects Introverts too, we’re just left with a bad feeling after. I missed ya, buddy :)
The run is all we have, doesn’t it? For the ones that are used to run, we’ll keep on doing, till death and beyond. I do admire Bierce, so I was pretty shocked when I first read this. I hadn’t seen the movie.
I must say you surprise me, I’m usually amazed by the things inside your head and soul.
I confess, what I learned from that is to appreciate every moment, because you never know if you’ll have it again. I didn’t learn to live life for god from it. I should be getting all nit-picky and saying, “But Adam, you’re 25, you have plenty of time.” But I won’t because I would be wrong. I’m losing the years of my life fast. My childhood is gone, so I’m trying to make a good few years out of high school. But that’s going fast, too.
Hi there Adam,
I started reading You like 2 months ago, and I keep checking for updates, new posts. To tell you the truth, I like your music very much, but I’m never interested in the celebrity, but the real person inside. So I read on, listen to your music and try to make out your charecter, personality. I kow it sound weird, but I’m always analyzing people around me. People I’m interested in. It surely will be hard, but nothing’s impossible.
Best wishes,
Cranberry
everytime i read ur blog..i found alot of thing we got in common
i really that we can meet……
i’ll be enchanted to meet u ;)
Adam -
Watched the whole video.
Tears in my eyes.
So much respect for you.
Seriously.
Love you music.
And your heart.
Amazing.
Don’t ever stop.
- Sarah
That is so touching.
Finally I read it and I saw the film and it is sad, inspiring and it makes me think about myself…
(I am OwlCity_Petra on twitter)
IF you all having trouble finding the movie it was broadcast as a Twilight Zone episode here in the states. I love that episode. Its on Netflix Season 5 Ep 23 An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.
I read that story last trimester in my english class. (Yeah…trimester, not semester. My school year is split into three parts…it’s weird…but that’s not my point.) I just wanted to say that I loved the story. The first time I read it, I was very confused. I thought it was all happening at once and I get every single section mixed around in my head. However, now that I’ve read it more than once…I understand it. And I’ve come to the comclusion that it’s one of my favorite short stories ever. (That and the The Pit and the Pendulum).
You can read the original short story by Ambrose Bierce here:
http://www.eastoftheweb.com/short-stories/UBooks/OccOwl.shtml#9you
Oh my goodness, I loved that story. After reading it for the first time just a few short weeks ago I was left awestruck and contemplative; something about it really struck me. Now I’m just dumbfounded that you’d not only mention it, but actually link it to your alias ‘Owl City.’ Wow.
I don’t really want to be seen as a fangirl. But, I love your music and your writings. I just think your awesome, keep on being yourself, Adam!
Love,
Destiny
I didnt have the time to watch the video i will do that later. i hope it gives me a good perspective on you and why you are owl city! thanks! :)
The film reminds me of Psalm 39:4
I read that story last year in my 11th grade English class. My teacher loved to make us think and express ourselves, I loved his class. I hated the fact that the ent screams “reality check!” As an introvert, I like escaping into a little buble that I can steer.
I ment bubble <3
Adam! My goodness! I couldn’t even make it through the first six minutes without tearing up! That makes Owl City even more wonderful than I already thought it was. It’s way deeper than any other stage name I’ve ever heard.
~Sky
That film is depressing. I had to stop it after the first few minutes, because it was giving me a heartache. I couldn’ t watch him struggling the whole time, stopping an instant every time he sees something beautiful. Only to be on the run again seconds later. And just when you think he finally did it, he falls down and you notice, the time he had was as short as the rope around his neck.
I love the scene, when he crawls to the flower just to touch and smell her, with that happy look on his face, and you think, that was totally worth it, even if it should be over, but then it starts all over again.
It is a really good film, the story even more. But still, it is depressing. Not the way I feel about time and life.
So, thanks for showing it.
Wow! So touching..
Sometimes some small things can teach us a lot and show us what’s really important in life. This story was such an eye-opener for me. Believe me, if we just look around a little clearer, we can see many reasons for being happy…
Thank you dear Adam for sharing this meaningful story. <33333
Wow, really beautiful short film. Thanks for sharing. It’s really cool to watch something without any audible dialogue, but that can make such an impact with just the music and video.
Your blogs always amaze me. You have such a talent in writing! I love the deep meaning behind everything thing you create. What’s really cool is this film is also a Twilight Zone episode! Haha:)
“Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge” has been a favorite of mine for a long time. Thank you so much for posting the video, this story has meant a bit to me as well.
I really want to go read that – and then watch it! (:
hoot owls — how did you discover Owl City? Here’s my story… http://im-enchanted.blogspot.com/2012/01/profound-impacts.html
It’s interesting that you got “Owl City” from that story because it’s actually a poignant one for me too. I had written a short historical piece for my creative writing class and my teacher suggested the story to me. Coincidence? Brainwaves, more like.
There is no need to tell us how and why……….your existence and music are enough to answer our questions. Thank you for staying with us i this cruel world.
“…always walk away feeling like I’ve gotta start living…” – This is exactly how I feel! I really sometimes feel stupid, having spent almost all my life in a Catholic school yet regarded God only like a “judge” – that you’re in good position if your kind and you’re in big trouble if you’re bad. I went my way, doings things as I would want it, as long as I’m not hurting anybody. I thought that was it, that I knew the key principle of life, that I would live a happy life. Suddenly, I hit a dead-end. I was suddenly confused with everything. He just wants me to realize doing good is not enough. It was a painful thing to go through, but I’m glad I’m getting over it. And with all the realizations that came out of it, I’m happy I’m able to take in those things. There’s a bigger plan and now I understand. :) “…an emotion I believe we all need to feel more often than we do.” – Yes! If only most, if not all, could feel this way, this world would be a better place. I guess we just have to do our share for the work that needs to be done ;)
this makes me think of Hospital Flowers.
Do your prior explanations of hitting an owl with a car and the obvious (at least to us true fans) insomnia issue still play a role in the name, despite this being your main reason?
having the outlook that your time is limited is a good way to enjoy life.
I doubt you’ll see this, adam, but if you do, you’re my favorite artist ever. your music arguably saved me from killing myself over the past couple years, and your live performance in Grand Rapids, MI last November captivated both my girlfriend and I. If I could ever meet you, I have two questions I’d love to know.
hopefully I’ll see you, and hear your vocals and cute stories, again someday.
keep up the good work.
Gregg Pullano
Michigan
After watching the film included,I eventually understand what Owl City is.We will enjoy the pure and rare pleasure when fighting and keeping moving in a dangerous position.Otherwise,nothing to do leads to the endless regret.
wait, i always thought you called yourself Owl City because of that kid at your school whose family raised Owls, and he and his dad brought one to school one day for show and tell and the Owl almost got away. did that really happen?
maybe you named yourself Owl City based on both things, on the story and on what happened in school. either way i did find the story inspiring, although at first it was kinda hard to me to get, but i get how you were inspired by it. also feeling that you have to start living is a feeling i recently have, so this was a good reminder thanks.
Wow. I guess it never really occurred to me that the name Owl City could have such a deep meaning. I love reading these interesting bits of information about who you are and your reasons for certain things. Every time I do, it makes me respect you all the more. One day in heaven, Lord willing, I’ll run up to you and give you the biggest hug to thank you for all you did back here on Earth. Thanks for being so inspiring.
Your sister in Christ, Samantha
I thought that when he untied himself he was going to be free, and got all excited because he would see his family again, so the end of that film was shocking and sad… I couldn’t believe that it didn’t end with a happy ending…
But I’m grateful that you took the time to sorta kinda explain why you call yourself Owl City, that made me happy. Now I wanna go read the short story too.
If you met me I wouldn’t care how long it took you to explain the name Owl City, I would just be happy that you’re right next to me while talking :)
Love you!! and cannot wait for the new album! (>_<)
Ah yes, I love that story! I remember reading it in high school, and viewing the film along with it. Made quite an impact on me as well. You have excellent taste in literature, sir.
And here I thought it was because you thought of yourself as an owl, never being able to sleep well at night! :P Guess I was wrong. Oh well, it’s great to hear the REAL story!
~Becca
Interesting, because your music is what makes me feel like I’ve gotta start living.
One word: Cool. :) I love to hear stories like this from you, Adam! Rock on!
Hey, Adam. I just wanted to let you know that your music, writings, and photography has immensely inspired me to levels I can barely comprehend. I don’t know if you read any of these comments but I’d really enjoy if you could read my blog. If you can’t, I can understand that for sure. After all, I’m only touching the very surface of writing and my deep, inner, yet unknown abilities God gave me. Anyways, I can’t tell you how much you have changed me as a writer, an amateur photographer, a listener, a Believer, and a person in general.
http://cameronmillerblog.com
I totally get it.
There was a man in his late thirties who came through the door into a building that I was in. His phone went off and the ringtone was “Fireflies” (by Owl City) which was the last thing I would have ever expected. Instantly I felt a sense of security and a connection with that individual even though we never spoke to eachother.
Music is powerful stuff.
I keep trying to post comments but they aren’t working!!! Arggh!!
This is why I’m scared of growing up. I know lots of other people probably say this, but I seem to have a similar personality to you in a various ways. I’m a total introvert. I’m scared that I’ll end up having to get a ‘dead-end job’ as you call them or go to college and be extremely unhappy. I just want to write and read and paint and listen to your music and take photos! But unfortunately I don’t have the talent required in any of these things to make a career out of them like you have with music.
You are so lucky that things worked out so amazingly well for you. And I’m so glad they did.
I love the name Owl City, and I kind of have a meaning for it too, but it’s also hard to explain. I don’t know the meanings behind the names of many of your projects, but ‘Kehaar’ is from the novel/movie Watership Down, right? Since one of the songs is called ‘I Glide’? You should have made a fourth song and called it ‘Big Vater’. ;)
Hugs!
Madd :)
Yay! It finally worked!
that last desperation was almost frightening. the whole thing, though, seems like it could be a parallel with life. like- we’re all in that fall right now. haunting, almost? i think i can see the idea, though.
anyway- wow. thanks for sharing!
You’re the best creative writer in the world for me.
I’ll definitely read that book. I love those fun stories you tell to make and explanation for “Owl City”, but I’m glad to hear the real story :)
You’re an amazing writer.
I thought you named yourself Owl City because you are often an insomiac before (or maybe until now) and you stay awake at night weaving golden strands of music which I related to owls because owls stay awake at night and produce gentle hoots in the silence.
You’re gifted.
love all your posts.
you are simply dazzling!
you always seem to keep my interest. such a mystery. I see such a wonderful soul just searching for so much more than meets the eye.
hopes that in all your fame- you’ll be able to find someone TRUE. a beautiful heart the same as yours.
It’s people like you that I hope to surround myself with.
That book, glanced for two seconds, was one of the red herrings in season 2 of Lost– implying that the plane had never crashed on the island and was still in fact crashing.
U SUCK EGGS!!! but we love u anyway :D
That short story is really good. I think I’ll force my family to read it and then read everything else I can find by Ambrose Bierce.
I’ve been trying to remember the name of this off and on for amost 50 yrs! Old person that I am – I saw this aired on an original episode of ‘The Twilight Zone’ as a small child. It so profoundly effected me that at the end that I started hyperveltilating. It wsa so bad that my parents called the doctor and he actually made a house call! Talk about your freaky memories. . ,
Thank you for answering my mind-boggling (not really) question! And I heard your song “I Hope You Think of Me” which made me wanna run to your house and steal your new album. Except, it isn’t finished… GRRRRRR! But I’m glad you’re a singer! All those other weirdos like Pitbull and Katy Perry sing about love in the stupidest of ways. The world has turned into a… well… inappropriate place let’s just say. You’re one of the very few singers out there who sing about the beauty of love in a more enjoyable and non-disturbing way. I wish there were more people like you. It would make the world a better place. OWL CITY EPICNESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please continue to amaze us!! We wouldn’t be alive without you! Well… we would… but I don’t wanna get into logical reasonings and yeah….. Never mind…..
wow, this is just fantastic.. i can really see why it was such an inspirtation..! i can’t wait until some more of your incredible music is released, to fill me with emotion and love that i’ve always had for your music.. it always comes from the heart. <3
The Secret is revealed!
And we were all wrong!
I’ll have to watch it later, but I did read this in 12th grade Lit.
Thanks for sharing, Adam
@ OwlCity4Eva!!!
You are so right! :) I haven’t heard ‘I Hope You Think Of Me’ yet . . I must check it out right away . .
PRAISE GOD FOR OWL CITY!!
Dude, I totally think the eyes on your picture thats your new site home are bogus, in every other picture of you EVER they are Soooo brown!
Adam,
As soon as the woman popped up in the film I had this inkling in the pit of my stomach, you know, that kind that says, “oh no, I think I figured your ending out, movie.” But I rode it out to the end for the film’s sake of mystique. Afterwards, I went back to try and understand the meaning of the title. The part where it mentioned an “occurrence” stumped me. How vague and frankly bizarre to watch that film after reading its title.
Praise be to God for giving you that niche in glorifying His beautiful name! I, too, know the dreariness school weighs upon a soul in those years lived in one big question mark towards Him. A language class here, a bio class there – nothing seems to click. It’ll make you head home “urgh” ing all the way there.
The feelings that sit patiently waiting in all of us is similar to that oversized lumber jack in the movie Hoodwinked. He dreams to one day yodle across the globe. For all of you searching for something beautiful, sit in quiet earnestness for He who holds great promise & WILL provide! With love and assuredness that often lights up the sky at night. You’ll have your yodle someday soon. I believe it, as should you.
Thank you for the glimpse in your character, Adam. You’re always so good at be honest with all of us. An admirable trait.
Your dear friend in Christ,
Melissa
The film titled “the Red Balloon” (also french I believe) is good too. It’s powerful, but a bit more … abstract. Definately worth checking out.
I won’t spoil any of it for you. Just watch it.
That’s fantastic, in every way. :)
Thanks for another great post!
HP
Oh, wow. To start off, the filming was incredible!! Very modern. Then ending totally took me by surprise. What a moving film.
I can’t believe I just spent twenty minutes of my life thinking this guy lives and gets back to his loved one, but within a second he dies…oh.. that’s a smack in the face.. overall i loved the music in it. That was beautiful. :D
You are amazing!!! I love your spirituality and love of God and Christ. It’s very inspiring and I can always go onto your blog and have my day turned around.
I would love to have a conversation about whats inspiring and why you call yourself “Owl City”!! Hopefully I wil,l one day, scince I live an hour from your town. It feels kind of silly that I’ve only seen you in concert one time. It was july 30th. and my 14th birthday present from my sister. You lookd me right in the eye. I was the one in the second row that was standing for 4 1/2 hours with blond curly hair glow in the dark tshirt and a sister with BRIGHT green hair. You are awsome. this is one of my many adventures, to read about my misadventures go to…. http://trinasmisadventures.blogspot.com/
You got a super brilliant idea for getting that name, Owl city has been flown up the air lately….
who don’t know the Owl city, huh???
Well, I loved to see you again at Jakarta, adams… Come back faster okay?!
AAAAAAAAAAA OWL CITY!!! <3
true that. all of it. i love you’re conviction about the fact this time isn’t ours to keep. every breath is a blessing. i do believe that you’ve been an amazing steward of your time, so i just hope i can do as good a job as you’ve done with mine.
thanks for something to think about!
-grace
Oh my God. I read “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge” last year! Yeah, it is a great work of American literature. I’ll be honest, I never expected your inspiration to be drawn from a story where (SPOILER ALERT) the protagonist ends up getting hanged. But, then again, it /is/ one of those stories that gets you to think, and your music does get both the average and more observant listeners to put those brain cells to good use, so it, in a way, makes sense.
Thank you for sharing that. definitely relate to it now. You only have one life right? It only emphasizes all the doors I’ve closed that I can’t open again.
Just watched the clip you introduced, I must say I was shaking a bit throughout the film. Very poignant. Thank you for sharing–though I’m sure as you said, explaining “why” is not all that simple, even with the film. Things in life is more complex, multi-layered.
I didn’t know that you had bad experiences with others at work/college prior to music-making. I was once ostracized/bullied for many years as a child. And it felt like running through the dark forest of my mind.
I hope you are living your life more consciously now? Maybe a silly question, but no matter how one moves forward in life, up or down, rich or poor, famous or anonymous…we all have our moments, light and dark. I’m so glad (as all your supporters) you are doing music, and of course, writing as well.
Not a detailed writing, but I did write a blog somewhat distantly related to your topic.
http://bluewhaleisland.blogspot.com/2011/12/singular-indeed.html
By the way, I absolutely like the song “Blue and Red,” it’s my favourite.
:)
I’ve read the story AND watched the film! (narrated by Rod Serling, no less) We read it as part of my Library class, and watched the film in Literature. I saw the title and as spring went off in my head with a loud SPROIIIIING. I enjoyed it as well. Love you always!
Star
I’v often wondered why you decided on such a unuiqe name…i mean, its not as if most bands dont have unusuall names…but Owl City, seems to be the most.
Well…i wanted to say…thanks.
the Lord has used you and your abilities in so many ways, i can’t even begin to list them. My sister was the one to reccomend you, and i’v been a huge fan of your work since about 2007.
( Stop. Talking. Im. Just. Wasting. His. Time…)
Lastly, don’t ever question yourself. You’r music has helped me a lot through the past years…even though thats kinda..awkward to say. Why…?
Probally because it seems like you arn’t just some – im so famous and cute, so buy my songs that i made by autotuning so i can get more money – kind of person. and WAY to many famous singers are nowadays…
…i WOULD put a scripture on the end of this that somhow related to this…but i failed.
God Bless You.
Bye~
( F.Y.I
..aw heck i got nothing.
Keep up the awsome work. )
Those kinds of reasons, are the best kinds of reasons.
The name ‘Owl City’ is unique in it’s own special way – and not only to you, as spiritually beautiful as it is. But also to your fans. Owl City has become a place, a real city of owls, ships and adventures; random, inspiring thoughts and concepts; and to be anywhere you want to be.
Owl City, as fantastical as it may seem, has become a sanctuary, safe house and collection of peaceful fields for escape from the world. At least, it has for me. And I know I will never be able to thank you enough for all the things you’ve done for me that you don’t even know yet.
I pray one day, that you will know – even if that day is the day we go Home, then so be it.
Thank you for your faith, your inspiration and overall awesomeness that you’ve shared with the world – with my world.
Jordan
As soon as I started watching the short film, I remembered that I had read this story in high school. I didn’t remember how it ended though. I was shocked when he ended up dying! It really is a good story though. It shows us not to take anything for granted, even the smallest things like spiderwebs and trees and flowers. And more importantly not to take family for granted either. All of the blessings that we recieve in life are from God and we should be thank Him for them now and every second of our lives.
Wow. I can really say that this story was unexpected but life changing all at once. It didn’t leave me any words.
Thank you for sharing!
-Rebekah
I remember reading that story once or twice myself. It changed a lot in the way of my outlook on life. It made me realize that time is the only thing we’re not promised. And that we need to make the most of it; because we’ll never really know when our life’s clock will begin to tick slower and slower until it stops all together. I know this comment will fall into the shadows of a hundred or so others, but, I hope you will read this anyway and know that you’re not alone. Thank you for so bluntly sharing your deep thoughts and raw emotions.
wow… not a word, yet I’m convicted
I think you’re missing a word in the name of your new album. It should be “All Things Are Bright and Beautiful”.
hi i really l0ve the name owl city its so unique and i like the story my fave song is Galaxies its on REPLAY IM SO IN LOVE W/ THE MUSIC!!!!!!! your amazing Adam -love annabell marie crane <3
The name “All Things Bright And Beautiful” comes from Hong Kong’s McDull cartoon.
Gavin, it will sound weird if their is an “are” in there, so stop being a little kid trying to act like a teacher grading grammar.
would you be able to explain in an email or face time?
(ryan.kennethx.jensen@gmail.com)
Wow! That was quite an eye opening film. The ending really caught me off guard. Sure puts things in perspective. And it has me asking myself ‘what have I been doing with my life?’.
thank you for finally explaining :)
The film was truly moving, very sad yet beautiful in a way you rarely witness in today’s movies :)
I have to say the ending left me with a lump in my throat, i.e. I was on the verge of tears (which normally doesn’t happen with movies).
I used to say I didn’t like french cinema (I’m french, by the way), but I think this just reconciled me with it…
What I love about your blog, Adam (I feel a bit unpolite just saying ‘Adam’, but anyway ^^”), is that we always learn something from your posts, and you make us discover things we’d probably never see on other blogs, or hear from other people, just like this movie, or ‘Bambi, a life in the woods’, for example -which I actually read when I was in Austria last month and really liked.
And did I mention you’re really fun, and I love how you write? You always use studied words (and sometimes it’s not very easy to understand for someone whose native language isn’t english, haha), so when we have a creative writing exercise during english tests at school, I use some of the words or expressions I’ve seen in your posts and I always get good grades and compliments from my teacher! So, well, thank you a lot for that, even though you don’t do it on purpose. (ahem, that was rambling, I know.)
Actually, I think I’m looking quite weird now, because you surely won’t read this, but still, thanks for sharing so much with your fans, keep doing such great work! :D
PS: Come back to France whenever you want! I promise we don’t eat frogs everyday! ;)
Apparently you can have comments that are too short…?? All I wanted to say was “wow”. It was good cinematography and though I understood the mood of the music, it still got on my nerves. How could that be remedied, I wonder?
Correct me if I’m wrong, but since it came out I’ve thought the album name was from the hymn called “All Things Bright and Beautiful”.
Adam, your music, your blog, your LIFE, all are completely inspiring and touching. In some ways I feel like you’re three steps ahead of the rest of us and you’ve got this whole “life” thing figured out already Keep doing what you’re doing Adam. We love you!
Finally, the secret behind the name! I’ve been wondering why you chose Owl City since I started listening to your music.
Do you have any suggestions on how to choose a name for my music project? Your music inspired me to become my true self and to start writing my own. Until now, I’ve been hiding behind something like a mask and trying to fit in with everyone else.
So thank you, truly, for making me realize that trying to fit in isn’t always the best thing to do.
THE TRUTH COMES OUT!
I’m sorry…I don’t get it. A person gets hanged and dies. End of story. : (
What does it have to do with owls?
“Even if you and I had half an hour and a quiet coffee shop, it’s not that simple.”
As I was watching this film, each step of the story was narrated in my mind, from the very beginning… to the end…. And yet, as the events transpired… the narration became less and less, finally shattering into a million particles to be replaced by a nebulous form that screamed out complete silence. The sensations… seemed real. The noose around his neck felt tight around mine; the smell of the rose was sweet and promising; the racing of the heart was tangible and strong….
There are many meanings that could come out of this, and I interpret many. That said, I realize why this hit you so powerfully, for I was also holding back tears at one point… and I can also compare the tale presented there with my own life in a very deep and meaningful way. It is a beautiful thing… and a terrible thing, this story, but I’d like to think… that it’s more the former than the latter.
And now it all makes more sense than it ever did before. Now the picture is clear. Now I know why… you call yourself Owl City.
– Kellie
all that hopefails
Wow, that was so powerful. I even got a little teary eyed. Thank you for posting that. Life changing.
wow!gotta see this film!
Wow! Thanks for the info. I love the name. It’s very individual as is Sky Sailing and things like Insect airport and Port Blue. I also think your music is amazing! My 14th b’day is soon and I really want Sky Sailing. Just started learning guitar aswell with my closest friend. I’ve been looking up easy Owl City chords, such as The Technicolour Phase, To The Sky and so on. I love to the Sky and the film Owls of Ga’Hoole! Baggy Wrinkles!!!!! Ignore me, my friend and I do that. But yeah, cool story on the name! Another thing to add to my knowledge of Owl City! x
Wow, i read this short story at eng10 i think, really deep. Love your music and texts Adam…just wondering if fireflies has something to do with that, i mean the Earth turning slowly ;p
Dear Adam, you are truly an inspiration. I think you should publish a book or possibly an autobiography. You are a good writer and actually keep me wanting more to read.
I love his name so it’s very cool. But I expect your next album.
.I LOVE YOU forever
You always tell that people ask great questions for which you have no great answers. Liar! You’ve got the best and the most meaningful answers to all the questions asked!
I’m the kind of girl who doesn’t talk too much and also doesn’t like listening to others talk either. And considering the whole 17 years of my life, you’re THE ONLY ONE that I’ll never scream “shut up” at. Seriously! I can listen to you talks FOREVER. You have that perfect tone and that unbelievable humbleness in your words. And everything that you say makes complete sense to me and they’re super fascinating too. I love spending all my time with you ( which is all that I’ve been doing since august) and I love you
With immense love,
Pooja:)
Wow. I had no idea that’s where you came up with the name.
I too, probably not far off from when you did, became familiar with this story via english class.
Instead of merely reading the story, we were assigned to watch the movie first and list any sounds that jumped out at us (it being a film with little dialogue). Then we wrote poems about the story based on the sounds we heard. I still have my poem and my heart still thumps wildly every time I read it. I mark that time in my life as when I first truly fell in love with writing.
It is one of my favorite short stories.
I completely understand how the name works now.
Thanks for sharing.