Exploring Countries And Places With Liminal Vibes The Beauty Of In-Between Spaces

Liminal spaces possess a unique and often unsettling beauty. These are the in-between places, the transitional zones that exist between one point and another. They evoke a sense of nostalgia, mystery, and even a touch of unease. This article delves into the fascinating world of liminal spaces, exploring the countries and specific locations that embody this unique aesthetic. From empty hallways and abandoned buildings to quiet suburban streets and desolate landscapes, we will uncover the beauty found in these transitional environments.

The concept of liminality, derived from the Latin word limen meaning “threshold,” has its roots in anthropology and sociology. It refers to a state of transition, a period of ambiguity or disorientation that occurs during rituals or rites of passage. Anthropologist Arnold van Gennep first introduced the concept in his book Rites of Passage, where he described liminality as a stage of being “betwixt and between” two defined states. This feeling of being in-between can trigger a range of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to anxiety and uncertainty. In the context of spaces, liminality translates into places that feel like thresholds, areas where one is neither fully in one place nor fully in another. They are zones of transition, often empty or sparsely populated, which create a sense of stillness and waiting. The aesthetic appeal of liminal spaces lies in their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, mystery, and the uncanny. The emptiness and lack of activity can trigger memories of similar places visited in the past, creating a sense of familiarity mingled with a feeling of displacement. The quietness of these spaces allows for introspection and contemplation, inviting the observer to project their own emotions and experiences onto the environment. The mystery stems from the ambiguity of these spaces. They are neither here nor there, neither fully functional nor completely abandoned. This lack of clear purpose creates a sense of intrigue, prompting the viewer to wonder about the history and the future of the place. Liminal spaces often possess an unsettling quality, a feeling of being slightly off or out of place. This is partly due to their emptiness and lack of human presence, which can create a sense of isolation. The architectural design of these spaces also plays a role. Long corridors, empty rooms, and repetitive patterns can induce a feeling of disorientation and unease. This unsettling quality, however, is also part of their appeal. It challenges our sense of reality and invites us to explore the boundaries of our perception. The exploration of liminal spaces through photography, art, and literature has grown in popularity in recent years. Online communities and social media platforms dedicated to sharing images and discussions about liminal spaces have emerged, reflecting the growing fascination with this aesthetic. This trend suggests a deeper cultural interest in the themes of transition, ambiguity, and the search for meaning in the mundane. Liminal spaces offer a respite from the frenetic pace of modern life. They provide a space for quiet contemplation and introspection, allowing us to reconnect with our inner selves. By embracing the beauty of these in-between places, we can gain a new appreciation for the power of transition and the potential for transformation.

Several countries around the world naturally exude liminal vibes. These are places where the landscape, architecture, and culture combine to create a sense of transition and in-betweenness. Exploring these countries can be a deeply evocative experience, offering a glimpse into the beauty of liminality on a grand scale. The countries to be explored below are: Italy, Iceland and Japan.

Italy: Echoes of the Past in Empty Spaces

Italy, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, is a treasure trove of liminal spaces. The country's ancient ruins, abandoned villages, and quiet coastal towns evoke a sense of time standing still. The architectural grandeur of Italy's past, juxtaposed with the emptiness of certain locations, creates a powerful sense of transition. Exploring these liminal spaces in Italy allows one to connect with history in a tangible way, while also experiencing the quiet beauty of in-between places. The historical depth of Italy contributes significantly to its liminal aura. The remnants of Roman civilization, medieval castles, and Renaissance architecture stand as silent witnesses to centuries of change. These historical sites, often partially ruined or sparsely visited, create a sense of temporal liminality, where the past and the present intertwine. Walking through the Colosseum in Rome, for example, one can feel the echoes of gladiatorial contests and the weight of history. Similarly, exploring the ruins of Pompeii offers a glimpse into a frozen moment in time, a city suspended between life and death. The presence of these historical layers adds a unique dimension to Italy's liminal character. Beyond the famous historical sites, Italy boasts numerous abandoned villages and towns, known as paesi fantasma (ghost towns). These settlements, often located in remote or mountainous areas, were gradually deserted due to economic hardship, natural disasters, or emigration. Today, they stand as poignant reminders of a bygone era, their empty streets and crumbling buildings evoking a sense of melancholy and mystery. The paesi fantasma offer a particularly strong sense of liminality. They are places that were once vibrant communities but are now caught in a state of suspension. Exploring these abandoned settlements feels like stepping into a parallel world, where time has stopped and the echoes of the past linger in the air. The emptiness of these spaces allows for a profound sense of introspection, inviting the visitor to contemplate the transience of life and the impermanence of human endeavors. Italy's diverse landscapes also contribute to its liminal atmosphere. The country's long coastline, with its quiet beaches and secluded coves, offers a sense of solitude and transition. The rugged mountains and rolling hills, dotted with small villages and vineyards, evoke a feeling of timelessness. Even the bustling cities of Italy, with their hidden alleyways and quiet courtyards, can offer moments of liminality, providing a respite from the crowds and the noise. The coastal regions of Italy, in particular, possess a unique liminal quality. The meeting of land and sea creates a zone of transition, a space where the boundaries between two distinct environments blur. Walking along a deserted beach at sunset, one can feel a sense of being in-between, neither fully on land nor fully in the water. The sound of the waves, the salty air, and the vast expanse of the sea evoke a feeling of freedom and contemplation. Similarly, the mountain regions of Italy offer a sense of isolation and timelessness. The small villages nestled in the hills, often accessible only by winding roads, feel like worlds apart from the bustling cities below. The quietness and the natural beauty of these areas create a conducive environment for introspection and reflection. Italy's architectural style, with its emphasis on grandeur and symmetry, can also contribute to the feeling of liminality. The long corridors, high ceilings, and empty rooms of many Italian buildings can create a sense of disorientation and unease. This is particularly true in the older palaces and villas, which often possess a slightly melancholic atmosphere. The architectural design of these spaces, combined with their historical significance, enhances the overall liminal experience.

Iceland: Where Nature's Transitions Dominate

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a country where liminality is etched into the very landscape. Its dramatic geological formations, vast lava fields, and otherworldly landscapes create a sense of being on the edge of something immense and powerful. The country's sparse population and isolated settlements further enhance the feeling of transition and in-betweenness. Exploring Iceland's liminal spaces is an immersive experience, where the forces of nature are palpable and the boundaries between reality and imagination blur. The unique geological landscape of Iceland is a major contributor to its liminal atmosphere. The country sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic plate boundary where volcanic activity and geothermal energy are constantly shaping the terrain. This dynamic environment has created a landscape of stark contrasts, with glaciers and volcanoes, lava fields and waterfalls coexisting in close proximity. The raw and untamed beauty of Iceland's nature evokes a sense of both awe and unease, creating a powerful liminal experience. The vast lava fields of Iceland, stretching for miles in every direction, are particularly evocative of liminality. These desolate landscapes, covered in black volcanic rock and sparse vegetation, feel like otherworldly realms. Walking through a lava field, one can sense the immense power of the earth and the forces that shaped the planet. The emptiness and the silence of these spaces create a profound sense of isolation and introspection. The glaciers of Iceland, vast rivers of ice carving their way through the landscape, also contribute to the country's liminal character. These frozen giants represent a transition between the solid earth and the liquid water, a dynamic state of flux that is both beautiful and unsettling. The blue ice, the creaking sounds, and the sheer scale of the glaciers evoke a sense of being on the edge of something immense and powerful. The waterfalls of Iceland, cascading down cliffs and into deep canyons, further enhance the country's liminal atmosphere. These waterfalls represent a transition between the high ground and the low ground, a constant flow of water that is both mesmerizing and slightly unnerving. The roar of the water, the mist in the air, and the sheer force of nature create a powerful sensory experience. The sparse population and isolated settlements of Iceland also contribute to its liminal character. The country has a low population density, with most of the inhabitants concentrated in the coastal areas. The interior of Iceland is largely uninhabited, a vast wilderness that feels both inviting and intimidating. Driving through the Icelandic countryside, one can go for hours without seeing another person, creating a sense of isolation and solitude. The small villages and towns of Iceland, often nestled in fjords or along the coast, possess a unique charm. These settlements, with their colorful houses and quaint harbors, feel like worlds apart from the bustling cities of the world. The quietness and the slow pace of life in these villages create a conducive environment for reflection and contemplation. The long periods of darkness in winter and the midnight sun in summer further enhance Iceland's liminal atmosphere. The extreme variations in daylight hours create a sense of temporal liminality, where the boundaries between day and night blur. The darkness of winter can be isolating and unsettling, while the endless daylight of summer can be disorienting and dreamlike. These seasonal shifts contribute to the overall feeling of being in-between, a state of transition and ambiguity.

Japan: Where Tradition and Modernity Intersect

Japan, a country where ancient traditions coexist with cutting-edge technology, is a fascinating study in liminality. The juxtaposition of old and new, the blending of natural landscapes with urban sprawl, and the cultural emphasis on ritual and transition all contribute to Japan's unique liminal atmosphere. Exploring liminal spaces in Japan offers a glimpse into a society that is constantly evolving, while still honoring its rich heritage. The blending of traditional and modern elements in Japan is a key aspect of its liminal character. The country has a long and rich history, with ancient temples, shrines, and castles dotting the landscape. These historical sites stand in stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers, bustling city streets, and high-speed trains that characterize contemporary Japan. The coexistence of these two worlds creates a sense of temporal liminality, where the past and the present are constantly interacting. Visiting a traditional Japanese garden, for example, one can experience a sense of tranquility and timelessness. The carefully manicured landscapes, the serene ponds, and the ancient stone lanterns evoke a sense of harmony and balance. Stepping out of the garden and into the bustling streets of Tokyo, one is immediately immersed in the energy and the dynamism of modern Japan. The contrast between these two experiences is striking, highlighting the liminal nature of the country. The cultural emphasis on ritual and transition in Japan also contributes to its liminal atmosphere. Japanese culture is deeply rooted in traditions that emphasize the importance of ceremonies, rites of passage, and seasonal transitions. These rituals serve to mark significant moments in life, from birth to death, and to connect individuals to the natural world. The frequent festivals and ceremonies in Japan create a sense of continuous transition and change. The changing seasons are particularly important in Japanese culture, with each season celebrated with its own unique festivals and traditions. The cherry blossom season in spring, for example, is a time of great celebration, with people gathering to admire the delicate flowers and to reflect on the transience of life. The autumn foliage season is another popular time for festivals, with the vibrant colors of the leaves attracting visitors from all over the world. The emphasis on seasonal transitions highlights the liminal nature of time, the constant flow of change that shapes our lives. The urban landscape of Japan, with its dense cities, sprawling suburbs, and intricate transportation networks, also possesses a unique liminal quality. The cities of Japan are characterized by a high degree of density, with buildings packed tightly together and streets teeming with people. This creates a sense of anonymity and disorientation, particularly in the larger cities like Tokyo and Osaka. The vast network of trains and subways in Japan, while efficient and convenient, can also feel overwhelming. Traveling through the underground tunnels and stations, one can experience a sense of being in-between, neither fully in one place nor fully in another. The suburban areas of Japan, with their quiet residential streets and uniform houses, can also evoke a sense of liminality. These areas, often located on the outskirts of the cities, feel like transitional zones between the urban and the rural. The lack of distinct landmarks and the repetitive architecture can create a sense of disorientation and unease. The natural landscapes of Japan, from the snow-capped mountains to the rugged coastline, also contribute to the country's liminal character. The mountains of Japan, with their steep slopes, dense forests, and remote temples, offer a sense of isolation and tranquility. Hiking through the mountains, one can experience a sense of being far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The coastline of Japan, with its rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque fishing villages, provides a sense of connection to the sea. The constant ebb and flow of the tides, the salty air, and the vast expanse of the ocean evoke a feeling of freedom and contemplation.

Beyond entire countries, certain specific places around the world stand out for their strong liminal vibes. These are locations that, through their architecture, history, or atmosphere, evoke a powerful sense of transition and in-betweenness. Exploring these places can offer a more focused experience of liminality, allowing for deeper contemplation and immersion. The specific places to be explored below are: Airports, Train Stations and Abandoned Buildings.

Airports: Gateways to the Unknown

Airports, with their bustling terminals, long corridors, and transient populations, are quintessential liminal spaces. They are places of arrival and departure, of hellos and goodbyes. The liminality of airports stems from their function as gateways, places where people are in transit, neither fully in one place nor fully in another. The architecture of airports, with its vast open spaces and repetitive designs, often enhances this sense of in-betweenness. The sterile environment and the constant flow of people create a feeling of anonymity and detachment. Airports are places of transition, where travelers are suspended between their past and their future. The act of traveling involves leaving one place and heading to another, a process that is inherently liminal. Airports serve as the physical manifestation of this transition, providing a space where people can prepare for their journey and reflect on their destination. The emotional atmosphere of airports also contributes to their liminal character. Airports are places of heightened emotions, where people experience excitement, anticipation, sadness, and anxiety. The emotional intensity of these moments, combined with the transient nature of the airport environment, creates a powerful sense of liminality. The architecture of airports often reinforces the feeling of in-betweenness. The long corridors, high ceilings, and vast open spaces can create a sense of disorientation and unease. The repetitive designs and the lack of natural light can further enhance this feeling. Airports are designed to be functional rather than aesthetically pleasing, which contributes to their sterile and impersonal atmosphere. The constant noise and activity in airports can also be overwhelming. The announcements, the chatter of travelers, the rolling suitcases, and the security procedures all contribute to a sense of chaos and commotion. This constant stimulation can be both exciting and exhausting, adding to the overall liminal experience. The transient population of airports is another key aspect of their liminal character. Airports are filled with people from all walks of life, traveling for a variety of reasons. The anonymity of the airport environment allows people to interact in a fleeting and superficial way, without the need for deeper connections. This transient social dynamic creates a unique atmosphere of detachment and in-betweenness. Airports are places of waiting, where travelers spend hours sitting in departure lounges, waiting for their flights to board. This waiting period can be both frustrating and meditative, providing an opportunity for introspection and reflection. The liminality of the airport environment encourages a sense of detachment from everyday life, allowing travelers to contemplate their journey and their destination. The security procedures in airports, while necessary for safety, also contribute to their liminal character. The process of going through security, with its metal detectors, x-ray machines, and pat-downs, can be both intrusive and dehumanizing. The security checkpoint acts as a physical threshold, marking the transition from the outside world to the controlled environment of the airport. The feeling of being watched and scrutinized can add to the overall sense of unease and in-betweenness. The duty-free shops in airports offer a glimpse into a world of consumerism and luxury. These shops, filled with high-end products and exotic goods, create a sense of artificiality and detachment from reality. The act of shopping in an airport duty-free shop can feel like a temporary escape from the mundane, adding to the overall liminal experience. The airport lounges, with their comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and quiet atmosphere, offer a respite from the chaos of the main terminal. These lounges provide a space for travelers to relax and recharge before their flights, creating a sense of temporary luxury and exclusivity. The liminality of the airport environment is further enhanced by the juxtaposition of the familiar and the unfamiliar. Airports are places where people from different cultures and backgrounds come together, creating a melting pot of languages, customs, and traditions. This cultural diversity can be both stimulating and disorienting, adding to the overall sense of in-betweenness. The global nature of air travel also contributes to the liminality of airports. Airports are gateways to the world, connecting people and places across vast distances. The sense of being part of a global network, of being able to travel to almost any destination in the world, can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. The liminality of airports is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, shaped by a variety of factors. From the architecture and the atmosphere to the transient population and the emotional intensity, airports offer a unique experience of transition and in-betweenness.

Train Stations: Crossroads of Journeys

Similar to airports, train stations are prime examples of liminal spaces. These bustling hubs of transportation serve as crossroads of journeys, places where people are constantly arriving and departing. The liminality of train stations is rooted in their function as connectors, spaces that link different locations and facilitate movement. The architecture of train stations, often grand and imposing, can further enhance this sense of transition and in-betweenness. The echoing halls, the bustling platforms, and the constant announcements create a dynamic and often overwhelming environment. Train stations are places of anticipation and farewell, where people experience a range of emotions related to travel. The excitement of embarking on a new adventure, the sadness of leaving loved ones, and the anxiety of navigating unfamiliar surroundings all contribute to the liminal atmosphere. Train stations are also spaces of anonymity, where travelers from different backgrounds and destinations converge briefly before dispersing again. This transient social dynamic creates a unique sense of detachment and in-betweenness. The architecture of train stations often reflects their historical significance. Many train stations were built in the 19th and early 20th centuries, during the heyday of rail travel. These stations often feature grand architectural designs, with high ceilings, ornate details, and imposing facades. The historical grandeur of these stations can create a sense of timelessness and nostalgia, adding to the liminal experience. The platforms of train stations are particularly evocative of liminality. These spaces, where trains arrive and depart, are places of constant movement and transition. The sound of the train approaching, the sight of the doors opening, and the rush of passengers boarding and disembarking all contribute to a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. The platforms are also places of waiting, where travelers spend time anticipating their journey or reflecting on their arrival. The waiting period can be both exciting and tedious, adding to the overall liminal experience. The concourses of train stations, with their bustling crowds, shops, and restaurants, are also liminal spaces. These areas serve as gathering places for travelers, providing amenities and services for those in transit. The concourses can be chaotic and overwhelming, but they also offer a sense of vibrancy and energy. The shops and restaurants in train stations cater to the needs of travelers, offering a wide range of goods and services. The presence of these commercial establishments adds a layer of complexity to the liminal atmosphere, blurring the lines between transportation hub and public space. The ticket offices in train stations are another significant liminal space. These areas, where travelers purchase tickets and make travel arrangements, are places of transaction and information exchange. The act of buying a ticket represents a commitment to a journey, a symbolic transition from one place to another. The information boards in train stations, displaying train schedules and platform information, are also important liminal elements. These boards provide travelers with the information they need to navigate the station and embark on their journey. The constant updating of the information boards reflects the dynamic nature of the train station environment. The underground tunnels and passageways that connect different parts of the train station are particularly evocative of liminality. These spaces, often dimly lit and sparsely populated, create a sense of mystery and disorientation. Walking through the tunnels, one can feel a sense of being in-between, neither fully in one part of the station nor fully in another. The echoes and the distant sounds of trains further enhance this feeling. The train tracks themselves are liminal spaces, representing the path of travel and the transition between destinations. The parallel lines of the tracks stretching into the distance evoke a sense of journey and possibility. The constant movement of trains along the tracks creates a dynamic and ever-changing environment. The train station waiting rooms offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of the main station areas. These rooms, often furnished with comfortable seating and reading materials, provide a space for travelers to relax and recharge before their journey. The waiting rooms offer a temporary escape from the liminality of the station, a quiet space for contemplation and reflection. The lost and found offices in train stations are liminal spaces in a different sense. These offices, where travelers can report lost items and retrieve found belongings, represent a point of transition between loss and recovery. The act of losing and finding items in a train station highlights the transient nature of the travel experience. The train station clock is a symbol of time and transition. The clock's hands constantly moving forward remind travelers of the passage of time and the importance of being on schedule. The clock serves as a focal point in the station, a reminder of the journeys that are beginning and ending. The liminality of train stations is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, shaped by a variety of factors. From the architecture and the atmosphere to the transient population and the emotional intensity, train stations offer a unique experience of transition and in-betweenness.

Abandoned Buildings: Echoes of Lost Time

Abandoned buildings, with their decaying structures and silent emptiness, are perhaps the most potent examples of liminal spaces. These places, once filled with life and activity, now stand as ghostly reminders of the past. The liminality of abandoned buildings stems from their state of transition, suspended between their former purpose and their uncertain future. Exploring these spaces can evoke a powerful sense of nostalgia, mystery, and even unease. The architecture of abandoned buildings often reflects their past function, providing clues about the lives and activities that once took place within their walls. The decaying structures, the peeling paint, and the crumbling facades all contribute to a sense of melancholy and decay. The emptiness of abandoned buildings is a key aspect of their liminal character. The absence of human presence creates a sense of isolation and silence, allowing the echoes of the past to linger in the air. The silence can be both eerie and peaceful, providing an opportunity for contemplation and reflection. The history of abandoned buildings is often shrouded in mystery. The reasons for their abandonment can vary widely, from economic hardship to natural disasters to changing social trends. The stories behind these buildings can be fascinating and tragic, adding to the overall sense of intrigue and melancholy. The natural elements often reclaim abandoned buildings, with plants growing through cracks in the walls and animals taking up residence within the structures. This process of nature reclaiming the built environment highlights the transience of human endeavors and the enduring power of the natural world. The graffiti and vandalism found in many abandoned buildings can be seen as a form of liminal art, a way for people to leave their mark on a space that is otherwise devoid of life. The graffiti can be both beautiful and destructive, reflecting the complex emotions associated with these spaces. The legal status of abandoned buildings can be ambiguous, with ownership often unclear or contested. This ambiguity adds to the liminal character of these spaces, creating a sense of uncertainty and risk. Exploring abandoned buildings can be dangerous, with structural instability, hazardous materials, and the risk of trespassing all posing potential threats. The potential for danger adds an element of excitement and adventure to the experience, but it also requires caution and respect. The ethical considerations surrounding the exploration of abandoned buildings are important. It is essential to avoid causing further damage to the structures and to respect the privacy of any former occupants or owners. The exploration of abandoned buildings should be approached with sensitivity and a sense of responsibility. The photography of abandoned buildings has become a popular form of artistic expression, capturing the beauty and the decay of these spaces. The images often evoke a sense of nostalgia, mystery, and the passage of time. The use of light and shadow can further enhance the liminal atmosphere, creating dramatic and evocative compositions. The urban exploration community, also known as urbex, is dedicated to the exploration of abandoned buildings and other hidden or inaccessible places. These explorers seek to document and preserve these spaces, while also experiencing the thrill of discovery and adventure. The urbex community has developed its own set of ethics and guidelines, emphasizing safety, respect, and the preservation of historical sites. The stories associated with abandoned buildings can be powerful and evocative. These stories can range from personal accounts of former occupants to historical narratives about the building's construction and use. The act of researching and uncovering these stories can add depth and meaning to the experience of exploring abandoned buildings. The architecture of abandoned buildings can be studied and appreciated for its historical and aesthetic significance. The architectural styles, the building materials, and the construction techniques can all provide valuable insights into the past. The preservation of abandoned buildings is a complex and challenging task. Many abandoned buildings are in a state of disrepair and require significant investment to restore. The preservation of these spaces can be important for historical and cultural reasons, but it also raises ethical and economic considerations. The future of abandoned buildings is often uncertain. Some abandoned buildings are demolished and replaced with new structures, while others are renovated and repurposed for new uses. The fate of abandoned buildings reflects the dynamic nature of the urban landscape and the constant process of change. The liminality of abandoned buildings is a powerful and evocative phenomenon, shaped by a variety of factors. From the decaying structures and the silent emptiness to the shrouded history and the reclaiming forces of nature, abandoned buildings offer a unique experience of transition and in-betweenness. Exploring these spaces can be a rewarding and thought-provoking experience, providing insights into the past, the present, and the uncertain future.

Liminal spaces offer a unique aesthetic experience, one that embraces transition, ambiguity, and the beauty of the in-between. By exploring these spaces, whether in countries with strong liminal vibes or in specific locations like abandoned buildings and airports, we can gain a new appreciation for the beauty of impermanence and the power of transition. The study of liminal spaces encourages us to look beyond the conventional and to find beauty in the unexpected. The appeal of liminal spaces lies in their ability to evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia and mystery to unease and contemplation. These spaces challenge our perceptions of reality and invite us to explore the boundaries of our imagination. The exploration of liminal spaces can be a deeply personal and transformative experience, allowing us to connect with our inner selves and to appreciate the beauty of the world around us. The concept of liminality extends beyond physical spaces, encompassing moments of transition in our lives and in society as a whole. By understanding and embracing the liminal, we can better navigate these periods of change and uncertainty. The appreciation of liminal spaces is a reflection of a broader cultural trend towards embracing ambiguity and complexity. In a world that is constantly changing, the ability to find beauty in the in-between is a valuable skill. The study of liminal spaces can inform our understanding of architecture, urban planning, and design. By creating spaces that embrace liminality, we can foster creativity, innovation, and a sense of connection to the past and the future. The beauty of liminal spaces lies in their ability to evoke a sense of wonder and possibility. These spaces remind us that life is a journey, a constant process of transition and change. By embracing the liminal, we can open ourselves to new experiences, new perspectives, and new ways of seeing the world.