Mount Hood

“Preacher’s Daughter” review

February 26, 2025

Written by: Kiera Roedel | Copy Editor

Content warning: This article contains mentions of religious trauma, depression, suicide, murder, alcoholism, drug addiction, abusive relationships, domestic violence, police violence, child sexual abuse, prostitution, kidnapping and cannibalism.

Ethel Cain is the name of Hayden Anhedönia’s solo music project. Her music focuses around themes of depression, trauma, Americana and religion, and her voice and musical styling are not dissimilar to the work of Lana Del Rey from the late 2010s. Cain’s 2022 record “Preacher’s Daughter” is a partially autobiographical concept album. It tells the life story of a preacher’s daughter, including stories about her childhood in the American South, adulthood, death and afterlife. The raw emotion on display is accentuated by gaunt instrumentation and especially by Cain’s exquisite vocals, which can convey more pain than a motivational speech even when not using a single actual word. The lyrics evoke some cruel cross between true crime and Gothic horror, gray and dismal. 

“Family Tree (Intro)” — Cain discusses in no uncertain terms how her character — the preacher’s daughter — was doomed from the start by her heritage. She portrays the allegorical concept of a “family tree” as a literal tree, one from which Cain is “swinging by (her) neck,” and compares her own family to that of Christ. Throbbing percussion combined with Cain’s slurring vocals make this an engaging listen and a fantastic opening track.

“American Teenager” — It is here that the story of the preacher’s daughter begins. “American Teenager” is the album’s third single and its most radio-friendly song, with structured lyrics and some addictive synths. Cain discusses her character’s isolation in the rural American South, condemning the nationalistic, Christian, individualist culture that pulses through those environments. To cope, the preacher’s daughter turns to liquor and religion, the latter being something from which she tries and fails to escape throughout the record.

“A House in Nebraska” — Here the preacher’s daughter experiences one of her few content moments in life, describing her time spent loving a man who eventually abandons her. Seven minutes long, even this reminiscence is not soaked in joy; ambient-adjacent vocals, strong percussion and soulful guitar accentuate the melancholy. Cain describes a dirty mattress, bed sores, dirt roads — the epitome of “alone together.”

“Western Nights” — After being shunned by the man in the house in Nebraska, the preacher’s daughter turns to another lover, this one abusive and violent. Despite his faults, she describes her unbreaking love for and codependence on him. Cain sings like she just finished crying her eyes out, over thundering piano chords.

“Family Tree” — “Family Tree” is the only song on the album where the story felt obfuscated. Its lyrics describe a wedding, baptism and threats of violence, but apparently are intended to be about running from the police after the man from “Western Nights” is killed during an armed robbery. Plus, the song isn’t really related to the intro track that shares its name. The guitar solo, however, is sensational.

“Hard Times” — Over some subtle piano and drums, Cain describes the preacher’s daughter’s history of being sexually abused by her father — the preacher — when she was “too young / to notice / that some types of love could be bad.” The events described in the song are not directly autobiographical, but that doesn’t make them any less horrific. Absolutely devastating, and perfectly executed.

“Thoroughfare” —  “Thoroughfare” is a ten-minute epic about the preacher’s daughter running away from home, when she encounters a strange man named Isaiah who promises to take her to California in his truck. On the ensuing long road trip, she slowly falls in love with him, and he with her. However, later lyrics and some lore posted online by Cain indicate that Isaiah actually kidnapped the preacher’s daughter, rather than her going with him consensually. The song starts acoustically, complete with harmonica, but builds to an electric guitar solo before falling away once again, and it is stunning from start to finish.

“Gibson Girl” — Taking its name from a drawing that was once considered to depict the pinnacle of American beauty standards, “Gibson Girl” describes the preacher’s daughter’s work in California as a prostitute and her simultaneous development of a drug addiction. Isaiah encourages her the whole way through, saying “if it feels good / then it can’t be bad.” This was the album’s first single, and is well-deserving of it; I’m especially in love with the drums through the choruses and the outro.

“Ptolemaea” — A million words could describe this song — shoegaze, terror, demonic, chilling — but not even all one million would be enough to honor it. Beginning with an echoing masculine chant, Cain’s voice cuts in like that of an angel. She sings of her fear of Isaiah while he has a psychotic breakdown of some kind. The climax of the song, and really of the album, comes when Cain begins to repeat the word “stop” with building intensity, the final one a bloodcurdling shriek as Isaiah dismembers her. This isn’t one I would ever choose to listen to individually, but as the peak of “Preacher’s Daughter” it is transcendent.

“August Underground” — While “August Underground” lacks lyrics, Cain’s wordless vocals take a prominent role. If death itself had a soundtrack, this would be it.

“Televangelism” — Also an instrumental, “Televangelism” is much brighter and less terrifying than either of the preceding two songs. Predominantly piano, it depicts the preacher’s daughter’s ascent into heaven, and is beautiful to match.

“Sun Bleached Flies” — From heaven, Cain reflects on her life and its few bright spots. In a particularly powerful bridge, she describes what I interpret as meeting God, and she realizes that she misses being alive, especially the man in the house in Nebraska. With driven but digestible instrumentation, “Sun Bleached Flies” is nothing short of cathartic.

“Strangers” — The closer of “Preacher’s Daughter” is also its second single. “Strangers” shows the preacher’s daughter in heaven, watching Isaiah cannibalize her body, and wishing she never fell in love with him. The outro is the most touching thing here — the preacher’s daughter speaks directly to her mother over acoustic guitar, telling her she doesn’t blame her for what happened. Especially interesting is the fact that no woman characters had been previously mentioned except the preacher’s daughter herself. “Strangers” is an excellent closer, bringing together the highlights of the album’s musical style into a cohesive whole.

The strengths of “Preacher’s Daughter” rest primarily in the story it tells and the soundscape it creates — less like music and more like the listener is just floating around inside Cain’s head throughout the course of these events. This isn’t a flawless record, but in some ways that just makes it more perfect. Absolutely worth a listen.

Contact the author at howlcopyeditor@wou.edu

Setting boundaries

February 12, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Learning how to set healthy boundaries is essential for maintaining mental health and strengthening respect within relationships. According to TherapistAid, “Personal boundaries are the limits and rules we set for ourselves within relationships.” They enable people to protect their emotional, physical and mental health, allowing one to show up as their best self, both in personal and professional lives. Many people may feel uncomfortable setting boundaries due to fear of rejection, a desire to please others or simply not knowing how to express personal needs. Unfortunately, not setting boundaries can lead to overwhelming feelings of burnout, resentment toward others and a loss of identity. Getting taken advantage of causes emotional exhaustion and unnecessary stress. With practice, establishing and maintaining boundaries can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships and a greater sense of self-respect. Setting boundaries isn’t about shutting others out; rather, it’s about creating a safe, respectful space where one can thrive. Boundaries do not end at personal and professional relationships, they can be applied to various other areas within our lives, even our online presences. We have to also understand that setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no.” It’s about preserving one’s mental and emotional health, and nurturing a sense of self. Some may believe that setting boundaries can be hurtful to the other person, but not expressing one’s own needs, including the need for space, can be extremely damaging, even leading to possible feelings of resentment. 

In order to set boundaries, it’s necessary to identify what needs to be protected. Sometimes the answer doesn’t immediately come to mind, but asking these questions can help to clear the way. 

  • “What makes me feel uncomfortable, drained or disrespected?”
  • “Where do I feel my time, energy, or emotions are being taken for granted?”
  • “When do I feel I’ve been overcommitting or sacrificing my well-being?”

Once we understand what’s not going to be tolerated, it’s important to define the limits. This could be applied to personal relationships, work environments or even among social circles. After all of this has been recognized and acknowledged, the next step is to communicate these boundaries to others. Communication should be clear and kind, but also direct and assertive. Setting boundaries is not asking for permission, but informing another person of a change of needs. When expressing limits, one should be prepared for any resistance. Some may not be immediately accepting of boundaries. Stay calm, and reinforce the boundaries. Saying “no” is healthy and is part of a balanced life. Consistency is key when it comes to upholding boundaries. Conflict is uncomfortable and it can be tempting to bend the boundaries, but it undermines them in the long run. 

Boundary violations are very likely to happen, so how one responds to any violations is extremely important. It’s crucial to have a direct conversation with the boundary violator in order to fix the issue. When another does not take boundaries seriously and continues to violate them, it might be time to reevaluate the relationship. Healthy relationships require mutual respect, and part of that respect includes honoring each other’s boundaries. Many people feel guilty or selfish when they enforce their limits, but in reality, boundaries are an essential form of self-care. Taking up space, saying no and prioritizing one’s needs without feeling guilty can lead to several health benefits. Among the benefits are increased emotional well-being, stronger relationships and improved self-esteem that all result in a larger control over one’s life. 

Setting boundaries is an essential skill that allows one to live authentically and protect their well-being. It can be difficult at first, especially if one is not accustomed to asserting their needs, but with practice, it becomes easier. Understanding one’s limits, communicating clearly and consistently enforcing boundaries cultivate healthy relationships and create a life that honors one’s own needs, priorities and values. In order to protect one’s health, we need to reiterate to ourselves that boundaries are not walls — they are bridges to more fulfilling, respectful and balanced relationships, where everyone can flourish. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Why should we slow down?

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

In this fast-paced world, it can feel as though there is never enough time to do everything  needed and wanted to do each day. Between classes, work, internships, friends, family and much more, it can be overwhelming to anyone. At times, one may ask themself if they’re not doing enough, if they could be more organized or why does it seem like everyone else has it together? Maybe a different question is required — why is there so much pressure to do more? 

With never-ending busy lives, one might believe that slowing down in life is a luxury that cannot be afforded. In reality, slowing down is a necessity. As a society, younger generations are already facing major burnout in life. To combat this, it’s important to reconnect oneself to the present moment and relearn how to find balance in an ever-changing world. 

1. What are your priorities? 

In order to slow down, one has to figure out what’s important to us. Endless to-do lists can distract from what’s really important. By taking time to reflect on the things that bring peace and joy in our everyday lives, distractions can be cut out. If one is unsure on where to start, try looking at relationships with family and friends. Is there anything one would like to do more? Anything less? Once what’s important is identified, it’s easier to release unnecessary stresses that drain energy. 

2. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is an extremely important skill that everyone can benefit from. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment. It includes observing one’s own thoughts, feelings and environment with an open and accepting attitude. It takes time to master mindfulness, but with lots of patience and a willingness to learn, anything is possible. 

3. Mindful Breathing

Pay attention to the sensation of one’s breathing as it moves in and out of the body. Try to breathe slowly and deeply, noticing how the air feels as it moves through the nose, fills the lungs and leaves the body. Allow the body to fully relax and feel as if it’s floating among the clouds. This practice can be done at any time, but it is especially helpful when one is overwhelmed or feeling disconnected. By focusing on what’s happening in the present, one can break free from the never-ending cycle of stress. 

4. Embrace Doing Nothing

Living in a time where productivity is highly valued, doing nothing seems foreign and wrong. Doing nothing is crucial in restoring mental and emotional selves. Whether it’s simply taking a nap, reading a book or people-watching, doing nothing is extremely vital for recharging one’s  mental batteries. Learning how to relax without guilt or pressure is extremely rewarding. One simple “nothing” activity is sitting out at night and looking up at the sky. The chilly air is refreshing and looking at the night sky can encourage one to reflect on their life as a whole. Giving oneself permission to take breaks and rest can lead to a more positive mindset about resting and can result in a higher level of productivity.

5. Reconnect with Nature

Nature has a magical ability to help individuals slow down. It allows for escape from modern responsibilities. Whether it’s in the park, garden or hiking in the woods, reconnecting with nature lowers levels of cortisol — the stress hormone — and improves feelings of emotional well-being. Nature reminds one of the simple pleasures of life, such as feeling the warmth of the sun on our skin or the calming sounds of the wind and water. One such place that encourages one to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the world is Peavy Arboretum. It has many different trails and it feels as if one is deep within the forest, when they’re relatively close to Corvallis. For anyone who wants to do this hike, one would recommend hikers to park in the small parking lot on 99W going South. 

6. Do Not Disturb

As technology continues to advance, people are relying on this powerful tool now more than ever. Whether it’s the constant notifications from email, Canvas, messages, Instagram, TikTok and more, it can become a distraction and eat up free time. Technology, especially phones, can feel as if they’re taking over lives. Just like any other relationship, setting boundaries is important. Some things one could do to limit the unnecessary stress is to turn off any notifications that are not essential. This simple step can make all the difference. As college students, many rely on our phones and laptops and it can be hard to completely take time away from busy schedules. Other than silencing unnecessary notifications, another important reason to take time away from phones is to strengthen in-person relationships. Spending too much time on phones only increases the feeling of being constantly overwhelmed. Setting boundaries in order to separate oneself from the online world allows one to prioritize important personal connections and experiences.

When life feels like a competition, slowing down can feel unproductive. But slowing down has shown the opposite effect. By embracing a mindful lifestyle, it can allow for the ability to feel truly alive and appreciate the smaller things in life. It is important to prioritize what’s really important in order to create a life that is more meaningful and fulfilling. Life is not about the destination, but about the journey — a journey that should be experienced and enjoyed. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Tyler the Creator’s “CHROMAKOPIA” simplified

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Tyler the Creator’s newest and eighth studio album is “CHROMAKOPIA.” Released Oct. 28, 2024, it has 14 tracks that explore identity, reflection, sexuality and maturity. The album has garnered several positive reviews and ratings, including praise from The Rolling Stone for its unique mix of sounds and emotional depth. In addition, there are various conflicting views among fans. Many people have not seen or comprehended the album since it differs from his previous seven. Because of its strong and artistic tone, many people have yet to understand the meaning of “CHROMAKOPIA” properly. 

Tyler noted that the album focuses on examining identity and progress and that several of the songs are so intimate that he felt compelled to play them while wearing a mask. He claims he wanted to take a more personal and contemplative approach to his signature styles from the previous two albums, “IGOR” and “Call Me if You Get Lost.” Tyler has indicated a desire to examine issues such as relationships, family and public persona in his songs so that he can connect with people on a more intimate level, rather than simply dismissing them in rap.

“CHROMAKOPIA” is special and unique because of the variety of sounds. “Noid,” “Sticky” and “Take Your Mask Off” have all received recognition for their storyline and production. The songs I enjoyed the most to least are as follows: 

1: “Rah Tah Tah” — Very frenetic and drum-heavy.

2. “St. Chroma” (feat. Daniel Caesar) — An incredible album opening with soulful undertones.

3: “Noid” — Explores anxiety and paranoia.

4: “Judge Judy” (feat. Childish Gambino) — A fun yet shining light on women’s judgment.

5: “Take Your Mask Off” (feat. Daniel Caesar) — This is an appeal to sincerity and transparency.

6: “Thought I Was Dead” (ft. ScHoolboy Q & Santigold) — A stirring praise of survival.

7: “Balloon” (feat. Doechii) — A cheerful, lighthearted melody about childhood memories.

8: “Darling, I” (feat. Teezo Touchdown) — A melodic track about love and complexity.

9: “Hey Jane” — A playful but melancholy composition inspired by emotions.

10: “Sticky” (feat. GloRilla, Sexyy Red and Lil Wayne) — A noteworthy feature.

11: “I Hope You Find Your Way Home” — A meaningful closing that reflects on life’s path and seeks closure.

12: “Like Him” (feat. Lola Young) — This is a soft song about individuality and acceptance.

13: “I Killed You” — Explores themes of competition and forgiveness.

14: “Tomorrow” — This is a forward-looking song about hope and resilience. 

Overall, “CHROMAKOPIA” explores Tyler’s thoughts on childhood lessons, adulthood and life changes. This is a new chapter for Tyler the Creator, demonstrating his continued progress as an artist, and “CHROMAKOPIA” is no exception.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu 

Empathy in education

Written by: Sierra Porter | Staff Writer

As individuals, there are many elements that affect our daily lives and further influence us as human beings. One element that every human has succumbed to in life is consistent trials and tribulations. As a society, we believe that education and schooling should help us learn and move away from these challenges, including those we face outside of these institutions. For some, this creates a disconnect between school life and home life — believing that a solution in one will fix the other. What our education system is currently missing, that will help this disconnect, is empathy. 

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. This is not just having pity or sorrow for others as sympathy does, but rather, one truly puts oneself in the other’s shoes, viewing things from their perspective. For one to have a truly valuable education with others, it must also involve some form of empathetic learning. 

Those with particularly consistent negative aspects in their home life, especially young students, face things like changing family dynamics. These include financial issues, sibling bullying, history of neglect or maltreatment and more, and are more likely to have struggles in school — leading to a greater chance of dropping out. 

For many, it’s nearly impossible to disassociate the troubles they face at home away from their school life. It’s up to us, as individuals, to learn and encourage empathy — making everyone’s school environment as positive a place as can be. 

Educators who use an empathetic approach to teaching and addressing classroom issues create an inclusive and open environment for students — encouraging them to build safe relationships with their teachers and peers. Empathetic learning and teaching also promote a positive learning environment where students feel valued and proud of their abilities. 

Creating a safe and comfortable environment for students will allow them to enjoy school more, thus motivating them to stick with their education and make overall better decisions in life. Teachers lead by example, so if one is leading with an empathetic mindset, then that will create a community of compassion and a generation of caring students. 

As a student, one can also promote empathy by showing compassion and kindness to their peers and teachers. You never truly know what is going on in others’ lives, so try to put yourself in their shoes. Showing care for your teacher and their life in or outside the classroom can show them how much their work is appreciated, encouraging them to continue teaching. Being empathetic with your peers will help you understand each other better, creating stronger bonds and deeper relationships, again, further creating a community of positive and caring people. 

Empathy in education is not just the responsibility of teachers and students, but institutions as a whole can also promote an empathetic environment and learning. Many schools explicitly promote empathetic learning through social-emotional learning, or SEL, programs or character education. 

Specific classes aren’t the only thing institutions can do to promote empathetic education. As an institution are they empathetic about their tuition? Empathetic about the types of classes they offer? Empathetic about deadlines and requirements for applying students? Empathic about those that need extra assistance, like disability accommodations? There are so many different ways to promote empathic learning and create an empathic environment as an institution — thus universities and schools all over should be looking at what their students need. 

Empathy in education will encourage a new generation of compassionate, caring and bonded individuals who will take their empathetic learning and apply it to the world. Empathy in education tells us that life is difficult, but you are not alone. 

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Life lesson from Libby and Lucie

Written by: Liberty Miller | Lifestyle Editor

Growing up, I always lent my mom out to my friends like a blockbuster movie. I remember saying something along the lines of “She can adopt you, she’s the best. She’ll cook you lots of good food and tell you what you need to hear.” 

In my eyes, that was the recipe for a loving household. To this day, I think the cure to any tough situation is a home-cooked meal and a stern talk from the legend herself. Even though I roll my eyes and huff and puff about how she’s too hard on me, she gives her advice for a reason.

Present day, my mom is subject to my constant barrage of calls and debriefs on disastrous situations — not once has she let me down. 

So, in honor of putting my mom in the print edition of the Howl, I’m going to share some of the best advice I’ve received from her and some of my best advice as well. The premise: how to be a young adult in a world that makes young adulting nearly impossible. 

Having a hard time adjusting to new circumstances, a hard job, a stressful workload or just people? Here’s what Lucie says to me: see it through, when one commits to something, it looks the best for that individual to see it through and do their best work. That way, coming out of a tough situation, they can still be confident in the fact that they did their best, did the right thing and overcame that challenge. 

So in the many times I came across a hurdle or situation that seemed unsolvable, I pulled myself up by the bootstraps and made it work somehow. This has helped me instill confidence in my ability to do hard things. Thanks, Mom. 

Unsatisfied with current employment or looking to pursue a different and more advanced career? Transferring schools or majors? Here’s what Lucie has to say about that: ONLY make lateral or upward movements. Pertaining specifically to jobs, either find a job that has equal pay and higher satisfaction or a job that pays more in a more advanced position.

This is what climbing the ladder is all about. Concerning the advice about seeing things through, it is smart, professionally, to stay at a job and do well for about 3 years, and then seek better opportunities in the future once established at the current position. 

In a committed relationship as a young adult? Learning to balance life and fun in college? Here is the best advice I’ve been given regarding that. Lucie says, first and foremost, to establish oneself as a woman/individual in the workforce before relying on someone else emotionally or financially. My mom worked and supported herself for years in Texas in the retail industry. It had its challenges, yes, but it also highlights the importance of independence and responsibility.

Asking for help from family and supporting/being supported by friends is crucial, of course, but asking for that type of support from a romantic partner ultimately doesn’t end well in a lot of cases. It’s best to have ownership of work, pride and savings to fall back on when disaster strikes. 

Speaking of family, ultimately, the best advice has been demonstrated by my mom, not just verbalized. In my culture, specifically because my mom’s side of the family is Hispanic, family is everything to us. Family will drive us insane; get on every last nerve humanly possible; argue and fight; family will also support us; help out financially; raise us; listen to us; spend Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter with us; and watch us grow up year after year. Family is there when there is nothing else left.

The best advice my mom gave to me was to value family over everything. There was a time in my life when romantic partners and friends took priority. They took my time and attention, but when all was said and done and those people eventually left, I had a family, a village to fall back on for unconditional love and support. 

There have been several situations where I’ve had to choose between family and others who wanted priority, and I’ve been steadfast in my decisions to choose my family and have been monumentally happier as a result. Whether you have close relatives or a found family, cherish them. 

Finally, the part where I share my advice. My mother raised a top-tier rebel, original thinker and troublemaker despite her best guidance, which means I have learned more life lessons the hard way than your average Joe. Therefore, all of my readers are now subject to my life-philosophy soliloquy, honed by years of making the worst decisions and somehow still ending up okay. 

How I survive life is by being honest with myself and staying true to my values. I try my best to live life authentically every day and set aside time to be quiet and practice gratitude. I forge ahead and do the things I’m terrified to do because the worst thing that can happen is rejection, which is a feeling that becomes less damaging the more I condition myself to it. I find my close friends and stick with them. I don’t change myself to fit other’s expectations or standards of what I should be and act like. I put a lot of effort into the things I care about.

When I make a mistake, I use it as an opportunity to grow and do something different. When I see an immovable wall, I find a way to crush it. I seize chances to make something that matters even when I don’t believe in myself. I have faith that everything will work out exactly the way it’s supposed to.

My words of advice are: life is too fleeting to let feelings like anxiety and fear stop someone from achieving great things. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Here are a few simple pranks to pull come April 1st

These practical jokes are entertaining for everyone

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌ ‌

It’s no hoax — April Fool’s Day is nearly here. Traditionally, people pull lighthearted pranks and jokes on unsuspecting family or friends, most of which range in the surprise factor. There are many tried and true tricks, like using fake spilled nail polish on the carpet or the classic caramel dipped onion on a stick. If folks need some inspiration, consider attempting these silly April Fool’s Day antics:

  • Taping googly eyes to household objects is a simple way to provide some laughs through the day. Throw them on the lamp, the TV, on the outside of a coffee mug ⏤ anywhere is possible. 
  • Covering sensors on electronics, or removing the batteries, can be a harmless way to prank the household for part of the day.
  • Take dark colored paper and cut out an insect, then tape it to the inside of the lampshade to make it look like there’s a large bug lurking. Plastic toy insects work just fine in a pinch and are normally pretty cheap.
  • Scrape the filling from a few Oreo cookies, and replace it with white toothpaste. Leaving some of these cookies ready on a plate can help entice the prankee to fall for it.  
  • If there’s a near empty or fully finished jar of mayonnaise, rinse out the container very well and replace it with whipped cream, and then pretend to eat the “mayonnaise” right from the jar to see people’s reactions.
  • Replace photos in the house with random celebrity pictures or popular TV characters. Some examples people have used in the past are pictures of Danny Devito, Steve Buscemi and Shrek.  

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu