Memories of Adolescence: The Posters that Defined My 13

Adolescence is a period of life when memories are formed and impressions are left. For many of us, it was our walls that held the stories of our growing up. In this article, we will explore the posters and pictures that were staples in my teenage room during my 13th year. These images played a significant role in shaping my interests and influences.

The Cloud Formation Chart

One of the earliest posters that caught my eye when I was 13 was a chart from a Science News magazine. It was a diagram filled with various cloud formations and what they signified in terms of weather. I was fascinated by this little weekly magazine, which only contained eight pages. I cherished that particular centerfold, even though I misplaced it over time. Such knowledge stayed with me as I made connections during geography and meteorology classes at school.

National Geographic Maps

National Geographic was not just a magazine; it was an escape to a world of maps. I eagerly awaited the arrival of their free maps, which I would switch out whenever the magazine sent another. From lunar craters to ocean trenches and detailed country maps, these maps were a source of endless fascination.

I found topographical maps particularly intriguing. My spatial skills flourished with the use of these maps, and I could often answer questions based on their visual cues. However, with time, this knowledge is stored in a part of the brain where it becomes harder to retrieve. Nevertheless, the visual memories remain intact in my heart.

A Tree Frog and the Battle of Homework

Another poster that caught my attention was a picture of a tree frog with a rather humorous caption: "Homework makes you ugly." I had a strong objection to this and crossed out the word "homework," replacing it with "house." The notion of doing housework was not appealing to me. This poster taught me a lesson about prioritizing self-care and organization.

A Framed Island Scene from the Canadian Rockies

Despite the numerous posters I had in my room, my favorite is framed and hangs on the wall. This picture is of an island in the Canadian Rockies, under the beauty of a sunset. The mountains are silhouetted against the sky, with jagged edges reflecting in the water. The photographer captured the scene as the day turned into night, with deep shadows of charcoal, dark aqua, mauve, and rose. This poster is a reminder of the majesty of nature and the joy of finding peace in serene landscapes.

Each of these posters in my room during my 13th year was more than just a colorful decoration. They taught me about environmental awareness, the joy of learning, and the beauty of nature. Today, as I reflect on those memories, I find myself cherishing the lessons and the moments that these posters brought into my life.