Move over Hygge, Here comes Malone
In the ever-evolving landscape of language and cultural expressions, a new term has emerged - Malone. It has swiftly become my favorite descriptor for that feeling of bliss during moments of tranquility. Unlike its predecessor, Hygge, Malone captures the essence of an American-style coziness that doesn't necessarily require company but thrives in the simplicity of life.
Definition and Origin of Malone:
Malone, pronounced the same as Post Malone (no relation), originated as a term to describe both a color temperature and a distinct feeling that comes with it. Logan Dowell, the creator and my little brother, envisioned it as an American Hygge, encompassing a broader range of emotions beyond mere coziness. Originally the term was intended to describe a color temperature, usually in the 4500K to 2500K range. Malone grew to be a year-round feeling, but the season that captures it best is late summer and early fall.
“ Malone is the glow of a warm sunset on an aspen tree, it’s the hue of fall foliage, it feels like drinking a warm cup of turmeric tea through your pupils” -Logan Dowell
Malone and Mindfulness:
Malone transcends mere sentiment to become a way of life, offering a solution to the pervasive issue of American loneliness and the yearning for genuine authenticity. It champions the cultivation of inner tranquility, the appreciation of intimate environments, and the adoption of analog technology as essential components of this lifestyle. Rich insights from literary works such as "A Sand County Almanac" by Aldo Leopold serve as poignant examples, underscoring Malone's role in advocating mindful living as a powerful response to the complexities of contemporary existence.
Philosophical and Spiritual Aspects of Malone:
Embracing inherent contradictions, Malone encompasses the comforting glow of a winter night by the fire and the serene ambiance of a summer sunrise on a San Diego, surf trip. It encapsulates diverse scenarios, from the warm light of an age-old lamp on a bookshelf to the gentle radiance of a sunset-lit dinner in a custom van. Malone unfolds as a tapestry of experiences, whether one is solitary in the woods or sharing the porch with close friends while grilling fish tacos.
Lessons from Malone:
Malone beckons as an achievable emotion, offering a stark contrast to our rapid consumer-centric, AI-generated, and social media-driven reality. Attaining Malone necessitates a deliberate slowing down, and a deliberate immersion in the current moment, and a conscious release of the fears and anxieties that often breed distrust and deception. In challenging moments, Malone encourages a mindful approach, drawing strength from sustenance, and seeking solace in the embrace of family and friends. It serves as a reminder that, amid the chaos of the contemporary world, a more profound and meaningful existence is within reach through intentional, mindful living.
Unlike the consumer-centric ethos of wellness culture, Malone places value on the existing possessions, such as your dad's well-worn Carhartt jacket, an aged CD from high school, or the family dog nestled at your feet – each emanating the essence of Malone. This sentiment is earned through years of use and love, prioritizing longevity and sentiment over the pursuit of the newest or most expensive items.
In conclusion, Malone was once a funny family anecdote, but now I see it as a value to live by. It invites a reevaluation of materialistic pursuits, urging individuals to find fulfillment in the enduring connections with possessions and experiences that embody the principles of Malone.
