Fury Kick

We are dedicated to bringing you the best experience with a focus on Soccer.

Why Are Soccer Balls Black And White?

Blake Footwork

In the⁣ magical ​world of soccer, where players ⁤dance ​on ⁣an emerald​ stage chasing a dream, there exists ‌a ‌silent yet captivating protagonist​ – the soccer ball. With ⁣its​ spherical⁣ presence and ​tireless travels⁤ across the green canvas, the⁤ soccer ball has⁤ become ‌an iconic symbol of the beautiful⁢ game.⁤ But have⁤ you ever​ wondered why soccer ⁣balls are predominantly ⁤dressed in the timeless‍ hues ⁣of⁣ black and white? Unlocking this enigmatic secret ‌will take us⁤ on a captivating journey through past‍ and present, as we dive‌ into the historical,‌ psychological,​ and practical reasons behind⁣ the color choices of‍ this mesmerizing object. So, fasten your‌ seatbelts as we unravel the mystery and ⁣come to understand why ⁣soccer balls are adorned ​with a twist of ⁣monochromatic‍ elegance.

1. The⁢ Puzzling Dichotomy: Unveiling the ⁤Secrets Behind Soccer Balls’‍ Black and White Contrasts

Soccer balls have long​ captured our imagination with ⁢their‌ distinctive black ⁣and white patterns, but‍ have ‍you ever wondered why​ they are ⁤designed this⁢ way? The mesmerizing ​contrast between the⁢ two ⁤colors has become an iconic symbol of the sport, but the secret behind this captivating dichotomy goes far ‌beyond mere aesthetics.

Unveiling the mystery behind soccer ⁣balls’‍ black and white contrasts reveals ⁢a⁤ combination of science, history, and practicality. Here are ‌a few intriguing ⁢reasons for this design:

  • Enhanced Visibility: ⁢The⁣ contrasting black ‌and white‌ panels‍ on ​a soccer ball ⁤help players and spectators⁢ easily ⁣track its movement on the field, ‌especially during ‌fast-paced matches.
  • Ancient Roots: This age-old color scheme ​can⁣ be traced back to ancient⁢ civilizations, where animal bladders or​ stitched‍ leather balls were adorned with paint or‍ dyed patches ⁣to make them more visible⁣ during ‍play.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: ‍ Let’s not forget the⁣ sheer beauty ‌of the black ‌and white⁤ pattern!⁤ The symmetrical⁢ arrangement ‍of hexagons‍ and ⁤pentagons creates a visually pleasing ‍object, enticing players and fans alike.

So next time you find yourself mesmerized by⁣ the hypnotic ​black ‍and white contrasts of⁢ a⁣ soccer ball, remember the fascinating story that lies beneath its surface. It’s​ not ​just⁢ decoration; it’s a carefully crafted ​design ​that serves a multitude of purposes, from visibility to capturing⁢ the essence of the game.

2. A Colorful Journey: Tracing the Origin of Soccer Balls’ Iconic ⁤Black and White Pattern

Soccer balls are not just ⁢a piece of equipment; they carry a rich history and‌ symbolism in their iconic⁣ black⁣ and white pattern. The‌ origin of this iconic ‍design ⁤dates back to the early⁢ 20th century ‍when soccer balls were‍ first​ standardized. However, ⁢the journey to this distinctive pattern is as colorful as the game itself.

1. Intriguing Origins:
​ ‍

  • Contrary to popular belief,​ the⁤ black and white ⁣pattern was ​not‌ simply an aesthetic choice.⁣ It had​ a practical​ purpose‍ -‌ enhancing visibility‍ during games,⁣ especially under the ‍floodlights.
  • The ‍pattern’s origins⁢ can be traced back to the ‌inspiration ⁤drawn from the​ humble, yet stunning Corcovado Mountain​ located in ‍Rio ​de Janeiro,‌ Brazil.
  • Legend has⁣ it that the ​contrasting colors symbolize​ the ⁢day and ​night, celebrating the round-the-clock passion and ubiquity of‍ the ⁢beautiful game.

2. Artistic ⁣Evolution:
‍ ⁣

  • Over the⁢ years, the black and white ‍pattern ​has undergone various artistic⁣ interpretations, reflecting the diverse‌ cultures and creative minds that have influenced the game.
  • From intricate hand-painted designs to modern ‌printing techniques, talented artists and designers⁤ have continuously⁤ pushed the⁣ boundaries of what⁣ a⁢ soccer‌ ball can visually represent.
  • This evolutionary process⁤ has not only⁤ made each ​ball⁤ a testament ⁤to human creativity but has⁣ also ​fostered a deep emotional connection between players,‌ fans, and the game itself.

3. The Evolution ⁣of Soccer’s Yin⁤ and Yang: How the Black ⁤and‍ White Design Came to Symbolize the Beautiful Game

The black and white design of soccer, with ​its ‍iconic symmetrical pattern, has⁢ come to‍ symbolize⁤ the ⁢essence of ‌the game. What began as‌ a practical⁢ solution to improve ​visibility has now become an integral part of soccer’s ⁤identity. Through ‍the⁢ years, the evolution of soccer’s yin and‍ yang has mirrored the development of the sport itself.

1. Early Beginnings:

  • Functional Purpose: The origins of the black and white soccer ball⁢ can be traced back to the 19th century, where ⁤players used different ‍shades of ⁤leather balls.​ However, this lack of consistency⁢ led to confusion on the⁤ field.⁣ In an effort ⁢to ​improve visibility, ⁢Charles‍ Goodyear introduced the idea of ‍using ‍panels with ⁤alternating‌ black and ​white designs. This simple addition revolutionized ‌the game, ‍ensuring players and spectators alike‍ could easily track the ⁣ball.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: As soccer gained popularity worldwide, the ⁤black ‌and white design became synonymous‍ with ⁣the sport.⁢ The striking contrast between the colors added⁤ a touch of elegance and simplicity,⁤ capturing the essence of the beautiful game. With time, the design also started⁢ to ​represent the balance and unity of ‌opposing⁤ forces, ​capturing soccer’s yin and yang ⁤– the harmony between⁢ attack and defense, individual brilliance and team effort.

4. ‍The Science Behind the Shade: Exploring the Role ‍of Color in⁤ Soccer‍ Balls’ ⁤Performance

The​ color of a ⁣soccer ball may seem like ​a⁤ trivial ⁤detail, but it can greatly impact ⁢its performance on the field.‌ Various scientific studies have delved into the role of color in soccer balls, uncovering‌ fascinating⁤ insights that have‌ significant implications for players and goalkeepers alike.

One key finding ⁤is ⁤that the choice of color affects the ‌visibility of the ball⁢ under different lighting conditions. For instance, a brightly colored ball may ⁤be ⁤more visible⁢ against ⁣a green field⁢ on a sunny day, enhancing players’ ability to⁤ track‍ its ​movement. On the⁣ other hand, a⁤ darker-colored‌ ball might blend in ‌better ⁢under floodlights, making it more​ challenging for goalkeepers to ⁢anticipate its trajectory. It is important ‌for soccer ball‌ manufacturers to take these factors into consideration when ⁢designing their‍ products.

  • Contrast: ‍The⁣ contrast between the​ ball ⁤and the playing surface can significantly ⁢impact⁢ players’ perception and reaction time. ‌Studies ⁢have shown that a ball with high contrast‌ against the field elicits faster response times and more accurate passes.
  • Visual attention: Research has‌ also explored how different colors‍ attract visual attention. For ‌example, a ball⁣ with contrasting colors, such as bold black and​ white patterns, can draw greater attention from players, ‌helping them quickly locate ⁣the ball amidst ⁤the⁤ chaotic pace of ‍the⁣ game.
  • Psychological‍ factors: Beyond ‍visibility and attention, color psychology plays a​ role in how ​players perceive a soccer ball. Colors associated with aggression and‍ dominance, ⁤like red and⁣ black, may⁤ subconsciously influence⁢ players’⁤ mindset, instilling a more‌ competitive spirit‌ on the field.

Understanding the science behind color in soccer balls allows players, coaches, and manufacturers to optimize ‌their equipment and performance. By ⁣carefully ⁤choosing the right ‌colors ‍and ⁤patterns, soccer balls ‍can enhance visibility, improve reaction times, and ultimately⁣ contribute ⁣to a more engaging and exciting game.

5. Cultural ‌Significance: Unraveling the ‌Symbolism​ of Black and White in‍ the⁤ World’s Most Beloved Sport

In⁣ the world⁢ of sports, few⁣ can argue the influence⁢ and global reach ​of ​soccer.⁤ As the ⁤most ​beloved​ sport across ⁤continents, it ​is ⁣not just a⁤ game, but⁢ a⁢ way of life‍ for millions of⁤ people. ⁤One intriguing ​aspect of soccer is the symbolism of black ​and white, which holds ​profound cultural significance, transcending geographical boundaries and historical ​contexts.

Black and white: ​two contrasting colors⁢ that represent ​a​ myriad of⁢ concepts in the beautiful game. Here, we explore the deep-rooted meaning behind these colors and how they intersect⁢ with various​ cultural and societal elements:

  • The ​Yin ⁢and ​Yang: Like the ancient​ Chinese ⁢philosophy that signifies the⁢ duality of life,⁣ black and white ⁢evoke the contrasting forces that coexist in harmony on the soccer field. They represent ​the balance between ⁣offense and‌ defense, action and​ reaction, ⁣as ⁣well as power and finesse.
  • Unity in diversity: Soccer’s black and white stripes ‍or checks, seen on iconic ‌jerseys, symbolize the ⁤unification of ⁣players from diverse backgrounds. These colors represent the coming together ⁤of ⁤individuals, regardless ‌of‍ their‍ race, ‌nationality, or creed, to form a⁢ united team that ⁢works towards ⁣a common goal.
  • Light ⁢versus darkness: While⁣ traditionally ‍perceived as ‍opposites, black ⁤and white also embody a deeper struggle​ between good and evil, hope and despair. On the pitch, black represents the determination to overcome ​obstacles,‌ while white represents ​the‍ pursuit of fair play, integrity, and ⁣sportsmanship.

Whether adorning the referee’s ‍whistle​ or​ the iconic soccer⁣ ball itself, the symbolism of ⁢black⁢ and white in the‍ world’s⁣ most beloved sport is ‍a ​reminder ‌of the cultural⁤ significance⁢ that transcends beyond mere aesthetics.‌ It represents ⁢a‍ powerful narrative, connecting fans worldwide and fostering a sense of ⁢unity among‍ people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

6. ‌The Artistry of‌ Soccer Balls: Delving into the Aesthetic‌ Considerations of Black and White Design

Soccer balls are⁤ not merely functional sports equipment, but also objects ⁢of art that reflect the creativity and innovation of designers. The⁤ black and white⁢ design of soccer ​balls⁤ has a timeless appeal, and delving ⁢into the⁤ aesthetic ​considerations‌ behind it ‌reveals a ⁣myriad of‌ fascinating details.

1. Visual Contrast: ⁢The ‍bold contrast of black and white creates a ‍striking visual ​impact on⁤ the‍ field, capturing the attention of players and spectators alike. ⁣The crispness⁣ of the black ‌hexagonal panels on a white background provides excellent visibility,⁤ allowing players to track ⁢the ball’s movement effortlessly. This high contrast design ⁢not‌ only‌ serves a ‌practical purpose ⁣but‌ also adds ‍a touch of⁣ elegance to the game.

2.‍ Symmetry‍ and Balance: The​ symmetrical arrangement of black and white panels on a soccer​ ball ⁣is‌ a ⁢testament to the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its design. ⁢Each panel seamlessly connects to⁢ the ​next, forming a perfect sphere. This⁣ balanced composition ensures that ⁤the ball’s flight⁣ is ​consistent and‍ predictable, enabling players to‍ execute their skills with precision⁢ and finesse. The harmonious combination of​ black and white evokes a‌ sense of ‍unity and cohesion, reflecting the ⁢spirit of⁣ teamwork inherent in soccer.

7. Paint it White,‍ Dye⁢ it Black:‍ Examining the Production Process of Soccer Balls’ Classic Colors

When it⁢ comes to ‍the iconic black and white design of ⁣soccer balls, there is a meticulous production process that ensures‍ their perfect⁤ appearance on the ⁣field. Let’s‍ take a ⁣closer look at ‌the steps involved in ⁢bringing ⁣these ​classic ‍colors to​ life:

  • Selection of Materials: The first step is to ​carefully choose⁢ the materials that will make up the‌ soccer ball. ⁤High-quality leather ⁢or synthetic panels‌ are selected to provide durability⁤ and performance on the⁢ pitch.
  • Panel Cutting and‍ Stitching: Once the materials are‌ chosen, the panels that will⁣ form the ball’s shape are cut precisely to‌ size. Skilled artisans ​then meticulously⁣ stitch⁣ these panels ‍together,​ ensuring tight⁣ and even seams that ‌maintain the ball’s integrity‍ throughout its usage.
  • White Base Coat: ⁣ After the ball is stitched, ​it‍ goes through a priming ‍process where a⁤ white ‌base coat‍ is applied. This ​coat creates a clean ⁤canvas for the following⁢ steps and enhances the final appearance of the colors.

Continuing‍ on with the⁣ process:

  • Black Dye: Once the ‌base⁢ coat is applied, the ball⁤ moves on to the dyeing stage. A precise‌ black ⁣dye ⁢is carefully ⁤applied, ensuring ⁣an⁢ even color ‌distribution⁣ and depth. This step is crucial in achieving the ‌iconic ⁢black portions of the ball.
  • Painting ⁣the White Panels: ⁤ To add the white sections, skilled​ artisans​ meticulously⁣ paint each ‍white ​panel individually. This manual process ensures⁢ precision⁤ and attention to detail,⁣ resulting in sharp, clean lines that define the ​contrasting design.
  • Finishing and Quality Control: After the dye and paint have⁢ dried, the ball ⁣undergoes a finishing process that includes varnishing to protect⁤ the colors⁤ and add shine. Thorough‌ quality control‍ checks ‌are ⁢performed to ensure that every ball meets the high ⁢standards ⁢expected from the iconic black and white design.

8. Cross-cultural⁢ Connections: Uniting the World Through‌ the⁤ Universally Recognizable Black and White Soccer Ball

When it comes to the‍ beautiful game of ⁢soccer, there’s one thing that ⁣unites players ⁤and fans from different cultures ‌all​ over the​ world: the​ universally recognizable⁤ black and white soccer ​ball. This iconic symbol⁣ brings people together ⁢on ⁤the field, transcending language ​barriers and cultural​ differences to create​ a sense ⁤of⁤ camaraderie and shared passion.

One of the incredible ⁣aspects​ of the⁣ black ​and white soccer ball is its simplicity.‍ With its classic design, it evokes a sense ⁣of nostalgia and‍ tradition‌ that resonates with ‌players⁣ and ⁣spectators alike. Whether you’re in a dusty field in a⁣ remote village, a bustling city stadium, or ‍a⁣ suburban⁢ park, ⁣the sight ⁣of the black and​ white ball ⁢rolling on ‌the grass ‌immediately​ sparks excitement and anticipation.

  • From⁣ bustling ⁤neighborhoods to remote ⁢villages, the ⁤black and ⁣white ‌soccer ball serves ⁤as a unifying force, attracting players of all ‌ages and skill levels.
  • Its familiar color scheme allows for easy‌ recognition and‌ coordination during⁤ intense matches,‌ enabling players to ⁣showcase their ⁣skills without any confusion.
  • Both amateur⁤ and professional players alike experience a thrill ⁤and ​sense of ‌accomplishment when scoring a goal, no ​matter ⁣the level of competition.

The ​black⁣ and ‍white soccer ball has become more ⁢than just ‍a‍ sports equipment; ‍it has become a⁣ cultural​ symbol that connects communities‍ and ‍countries. It’s a reminder⁢ that despite our‌ differences,⁤ we ⁤can come ‌together⁢ and share a common love‌ for the beautiful game.

9.⁤ The Impact of Visualization: How Black and White⁢ Patterns Help‌ Enhance Player Focus ‍and Performance

Visualization techniques ‍are widely used in various fields to improve focus and performance, and the world of gaming is​ no exception. One specific ⁢technique ​that has been gaining significant ⁣attention is the‍ use of black​ and white patterns to enhance player focus. These‌ patterns, often showcased⁢ in the form of immersive backgrounds or intricate ⁣puzzle designs, have ‌been⁣ found to captivate players’ attention ⁤and stimulate their ⁤cognitive abilities.

By ‌incorporating black and white patterns ⁣into game ​visuals, developers are‍ able to create ⁣a⁣ visually striking ‍environment that⁢ demands⁢ the player’s full attention. The high contrast between black and white not only grabs the player’s focus but also⁢ helps to‍ eliminate distractions. This allows players to fully⁣ immerse themselves in⁢ the ​game ⁢world, fostering a​ state of⁣ heightened concentration ⁤where they can better analyze, ⁤strategize,‍ and react to⁣ in-game challenges. Additionally, the use of these patterns has⁢ been⁣ shown to improve players’ visual ​processing skills and reaction times, making it an‍ effective tool ‍for ‍enhancing overall gaming ‌performance.

10. ⁤Beyond ​the Pitch: How the Black⁣ and White Soccer ⁢Ball Transcends Borders, Language,⁣ and Creed

Soccer, also ‍known as football in many parts of‍ the world, is a sport that unites⁢ people across nations ⁤and cultures. ⁤The ⁣black and white soccer ball, an iconic symbol of the game,‌ carries ⁢a universal ​language ⁤that⁣ transcends borders, language barriers, ⁤and religious beliefs.

As ​players step onto the ‍pitch, their differences ⁣in skin color, language, and‌ creed become irrelevant. The ‌ball becomes⁤ the common denominator, creating‌ a level playing​ field where communication⁢ happens effortlessly through passes, tackles, and goals. It has the ‌power to connect people from diverse backgrounds, ⁤fostering a sense of ‍belonging and camaraderie that goes beyond‌ the 90 minutes of ‌the game.

  • Unity -⁣ The black⁢ and white ⁢soccer ball represents unity among players, fans, and⁤ communities worldwide. ⁤It serves as a reminder that, despite our differences, we are ⁢all part of the ⁢same beautiful ‍game.
  • Inclusivity ⁢- Soccer is⁢ open‍ to⁢ everyone, irrespective⁢ of race, gender, or ‍social standing. The ‌ball‌ serves‍ as⁤ a‍ symbol of inclusivity,‍ welcoming individuals from‍ all ⁤walks of⁤ life to participate and enjoy the ​sport.
  • Shared Passion ‌-‍ Regardless of​ language barriers, cultures,​ or geographical distances, soccer enthusiasts ⁢share the same ‌passion for the ‍game. The soccer ball ​functions as a common thread that ‍binds ‌people ⁣together, enabling them to communicate⁢ and connect ⁢through⁤ their love ⁣of the sport.

Q&A

Q: Why are soccer balls black and white?
A: The iconic⁤ black and white design of soccer balls is​ a‍ result ‌of a long history and⁤ several practical ​reasons.

Q: How did the black and white design of ⁢soccer balls originate?
A: ⁢The ‌history of ​soccer ball ‍design dates back to the 19th century, and over time, the black and⁣ white ‍pattern‍ became​ the standard ⁣due‍ to its⁢ distinct visibility on the field.

Q: Why black and​ white though? Couldn’t‍ other colors be just as ⁢visible?
A:‌ While ⁤it’s true that other ⁢colors could have been equally visible, black ⁣and white offered ‍the highest level of contrast, making it easier for players, referees, and spectators to follow the ball’s⁢ movement ‍in a fast-paced game⁣ like ⁤soccer.

Q: Did the black ‍and ​white design have​ any influence on the game itself?
A: Surprisingly,⁢ the black and white pattern did influence⁢ the game⁤ to‍ an⁤ extent.⁢ Players developed a‍ keen sense of anticipation by​ focusing⁢ on the contrasting colors, enhancing their ability⁣ to react quickly‌ and make‍ precise​ passes.

Q:⁣ Were‍ there any alternative ⁤designs considered before deciding on black and white?
A: Yes, there ‍were various experimental ⁤designs in early ​soccer ball history, including solid ⁣colors and⁤ intricate patterns. ⁣However, the ‌simplicity and high⁣ visibility of black and​ white ultimately ​made it the most practical and widely accepted choice.

Q: How⁢ has the design‌ of‍ soccer balls evolved over⁢ time?
A: ⁤The design of ⁢soccer balls has indeed evolved. ‍While the black‌ and white ‍pattern‍ remains the ⁢most recognizable,‌ the actual construction and‍ materials ⁤have undergone significant ​changes to improve performance, flight, and durability.

Q: Are there⁢ any ‍specific ⁢regulations concerning ⁤the black and white pattern?
A: ⁤The‍ black and white ‍pattern​ is not strictly regulated in terms of size or shape, but it is ‌considered an important ⁣characteristic of a ⁣regulation soccer ball, especially in professional leagues⁢ and ⁤official competitions.

Q: Have there⁤ been any ‍instances where​ soccer balls were not black and white?
A:‌ Occasionally,⁢ soccer balls come in alternative​ colors and patterns for⁢ special ‌occasions or marketing purposes.‌ These⁤ unique designs, ⁢however, ⁤are usually seen in friendly matches or exhibition games, while the⁣ traditional black ⁤and ⁢white pattern ‌remains the norm.

Q: ⁢Is⁢ the black and ⁢white design exclusive to soccer?
A: No, the black ​and white design is​ not⁤ exclusive to soccer. Other sports such​ as volleyball, basketball, and‍ handball have also adopted the use of⁤ black and white patterns for better visibility,​ especially ‌when played on various surfaces or in‌ different lighting conditions.

Q:⁢ So, the black and ⁣white design is primarily a matter of practicality?
A: ​Indeed, the black and white design ‌of soccer‌ balls is primarily driven ‌by ⁤practicality and enhanced visibility. It has ⁣become‍ an iconic symbol of the game, bringing players and⁢ fans together on fields around the world.

As we reach⁣ the end of our exploration‍ into‍ the ⁣captivating world of‍ soccer‌ balls, ‌we⁣ are left with a mesmerizing palette of black and white. It is truly astounding how these contrasting hues have become an integral⁢ part of the​ game we‌ hold so dear. The alluring ‌dance of dark ‌and light⁣ has ‍mesmerized players⁣ and spectators⁤ alike throughout history, creating an ⁢enchanting symphony of motions and ⁤emotions.

From​ the‍ ethereal charm of‍ the ⁤earliest leather ⁤spheres‍ to⁣ the modern intricacies ‌of thermal⁤ bonding and​ cutting-edge synthetic⁢ materials, soccer balls ⁢have come a ‌long way in their evolution. And yet, the monochromatic‍ design ⁢remains‍ a​ steadfast tradition that⁤ bridges generations and cultures, forming an unspoken language between players on the field.

With every‍ deft‍ touch, ⁢every precision ‍pass, and⁤ every soaring goal, the⁤ black and white ball emboldens players to leave their mark on the game. It ‌signifies a⁤ blank canvas, ready​ to be painted ​with the brilliance of⁣ skill and determination. From the bustling streets ⁢of South America⁤ to the‌ sun-drenched pitches of Europe, the⁣ universal allure ‌of this⁣ distinctive color scheme enchants enthusiasts‌ worldwide.

Perhaps the simplicity of black and⁤ white⁤ speaks to⁣ something deeper within us.‍ As we ​watch the ball glide across ⁤the green ⁤expanse,‍ we see ​not merely a sporting implement, but a symbol ⁢of unity and camaraderie. It reminds us of the timeless​ beauty‍ found in the contrast of‌ opposites, the harmony created when darkness and light ⁣converge on ‍an arena where talent knows ⁢no boundaries.

So, dear readers,⁢ as we bid‍ farewell⁣ to this investigation into‌ the intriguing question ‍of why soccer balls​ are black and white, we leave ‍you with an‌ invitation to ponder the magic ⁤woven into these seemingly ordinary spheres.⁤ Let us ⁤not merely see⁣ black and white, but​ discover the shades of ⁣resilience, teamwork, and ingenuity that⁢ lie hidden ⁣within. For‌ every ‍time a soccer ball kisses ⁢the⁣ air, it carries a‌ story, a connection, and a love for the beautiful game ​that⁢ transcends‍ borders ⁤and generations.

Next‌ time ⁢you find ⁢yourself in‌ the midst of a thrilling soccer​ match,​ take a moment to appreciate ‍the ‌duality captured ​in its remarkable palette. Embrace the intricate dance between black ​and white, and marvel⁢ at the profound simplicity that allows ⁤humanity‍ to write its most glorious ⁣chapters on the world’s grandest stage. The black and white ⁢ball is not just‌ a fashion statement or a whim‌ of⁤ chance; it is a symbol of the⁣ passion and ‌unity ‌that ‍unites us all.

Blake Footwork

Leave a comment