November 24, 2010 - submitted by Tony, United States of America

 

Q. Where can I buy the Hope for Haiti album? It isn't available on Itunes anymore.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

So I take it you already went to iTunes.com/Haiti and all I can say is that when I typed Hope for Haiti into my preferred search engine it gave me options to buy at Amazon etc. so maybe try there?

November 25, 2010 - submitted by Agustin, Argentina

 

Q. Hi Oracle!

What is the number that appears in the home of the page? What's means? It good for? What will happen when it reaches 0?

 

Yes... another question!

What's the meaning of "yer"...

For example "Yer hear yer head-a-banging on the door..."(This is a fragment of a Song by Oasis, Sunday Morning Call)

Thanks!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Now that would be telling wouldn't it? Actually, if you read the news piece it says at the bottom "The countdown has begun" so it should be pretty easy to work out what will be happening when it reaches zero...

 

Yer means you and your in the above lyric: You hear your head-a-banging.

November 25, 2010 - submitted by Kelby, United States of America

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

Do the boys like the Bee Gees?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

They do yes and there's actually a funny thing in the Bakery... In the kitchen area there's a chalkboard with the question "Who is your favourite Bee Gee and why?" written at the top.

Now I know this will prompt hundreds of "who is their favourite Bee Gee and why?" but all I will say is initials of the band & Bakery 'crew' are written down the left hand side with their responses next to them. It's rather amusing so I thought I would share.

November 26, 2010 - submitted by The Oracle, United Kingdom

 

Q. WHO'D LIKE TO JOIN TEAM ORACLE?

Welcome to week two of our new feature, Team Oracle.

Each Friday (with the question asker's permission) we open up a question to all of you to answer too. Then, the following Friday, I'll post a selection of the best answers, alongside my own reply.

So, if you'd like to join in, please email your response (with your name and country) to the following question, in no more than 200 words, to [email protected] before Thursday 2nd December.

Is it okay to be different? Should I change?

I'm in high school and 17. Someone told me I was weird but cool. They told me this because I am curious about the universe and love to watch documentaries. I also am not like the rest of my class mates. I don't keep up with fashion I just wear what I feel like wearing. Have I painted an image to the rest of my classmates that I am weird? Is this the reason some students don't talk to me? Should I change who I am?

Sel

 

Look forward to seeing your replies.

The Oracle

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Please email your replies to [email protected]

November 26, 2010 - submitted by Bernie, United Kingdom

 

Q. TEAM ORACLE QUESTION - #1

Hi

I've been single for two years after a long term relationship ended. I was hurt badly and don't know if I can trust a man again. I don't think I'm ready to settle down but 3 weeks ago I met a guy I really like. He told me he isn't looking for a girlfriend, just fun. I thought it could be a perfect arrangement. We've tried to meet up 3 times since but he has cancelled because of work. I was really upset by the let down and realise I struggle with disappointment. It's hard work already but I really want to see him again. Shall I be patient or just cut my losses and run?

Bernie

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I'll kick off our first Team Oracle response:

I think the key to this is you not him and the fact you have been let down in the past. As you mention both trust and disappointment it sounds like you want to at least have some input in whatever arrangement you enter into. This guy is calling the shots and you feel uncomfortable with having no control. If you've been hurt that's totally understandable. However if you are willing to wait for this one you "really like" perhaps you need to admit there's potential for you to have more feelings - you may already. If you're hoping for those to be reciprocated there could be another disappointment looming.

So, back to the waiting or not... well I don't know his profession but if it's something that he has to cancel things at the drop of a hat, that's not likely to change any time soon so you need to be prepared for that also. Many jobs can come with unpredictability; he may be as disappointed as you by the way but it can't be helped.

If you're meant to hook up I'm sure you will. I do think if he does suggest another time and you already have plans, try to stick to those plans so you are sending the message that you also have a life that can't bend even if just for fun.

O.

Over to you:

 

Bernie,

 

Do it, just do it. Don't sit there imagining what could be or what could have been, even if you have had some bad experiences in the past, not everyone is like that. Keep trying, and just go with the flow. Give the world a second chance, and keep an open mind. Finally, always remember that there are people out there that know what you are talking about, they have had the same experience. You can always talk to them about it. It may seem cheesy now, but trust me. Julie

 

Dear Bernie

When you met this guy, he told you he wasn't looking for a girlfriend, just fun. You agreed. You shouldn't be hurt then when he cancels a meeting with you because of work. It sounds to me however like you have changed your expectations. You like this man, so you want to be more than 'fun'. Remember that he can't give you that, as he told you from the start. I would advice you to protect yourself from getting hurt, and forget this man. He will not be able to make you happy if you both expect different things. Tell him honestly that you were upset and disappointed, and that this situation doesn't seem to work for you.

Think about what will make you happy: are you really just looking for fun, or would you prefer a relationship after all? Remember that, if you say you are only looking for fun, you can't have any expectations, not even when you like the guy very much. And remember not all men are the same, despite what you feel after your long term relationship... Evelien

 

Dear Bernie,

Cut your losses? Princess, this is his loss. But I do think you should forget about this guy. Not that it will be easy, but it will be easier now than later on when you're more attached and he still feels the same way about just wanting to have fun. If you're like me, you can tell yourself all you want that it's just fun for you and you don't really feel anything about the guy, but the truth is it already sounds like you're developing feelings for him. Which I'm not saying is always going to be a bad thing, and I don't think you should be afraid to fall for someone if the right person comes along. But the fact that this guy is saying up front that he just wants fun really means he just wants fun. And chances are he won't change his mind no matter how awesome and incredible you are. If you think there is even a chance that you might want something more than that in the future with this guy, you are setting yourself up for disappointment. And you'll be constantly asking yourself what you did wrong to make him decide this, when in reality he decided it when he barely knew you at all, for reasons entirely unrelated to you. It's better just to save yourself all the trouble and not get close to him at all. Harsh, but I think it's easier to deal with now than later on.

 

Ok, so now suppose you decide that you really do just want to have fun with this guy. Another problem: do you want to have to deal with him being so flaky because of work? Even if he does really have a demanding work schedule that has required him to cancel on you the past 3 times, is that really the kind of guy you want to be getting to know?

 

All in all: my intuition is telling me that this guy is bad news. After 2 years of being single you deserve a truly spectacular guy in your life, and I know that hes going to come along just when you aren't looking for him (slash get too busy and decide you don't have time for guys.... that is how it always works right?). But the fact that you're having these doubts about this guy so early on seem to indicate that he isn't going to be a positive addition to your life. Hold out for the guy who's willing to rearrange his schedule to see you (don't let him rearrange his schedule of course, but definitely take the offer as a good sign :) oh, and if you see my version of that guy, feel free to send him my way.

 

Best of luck,

Em

 

Bernie,

Do not fret! Patience is something that is grand in life, and you just have to stick with it. I'm sure you'll meet up with this guy soon, and if not, there are many better ones out there. Look ahead! Not back! Matthew

 

I know that we all struggle with disappointment at some point in our lives, but you should not be disappointed over failed attempts to meet a new man. Showing or feeling disappointment at this very early stage in any relationship smacks a bit like despair. On the outside, you may feel that your very confident, until someone asks you out. Then your confidence is crushed as soon as the other party doesn't call, or cancels dates. I know how this feels, because I've been there, and felt this way many times.

 

The most impressive and desirable quality that a person can offer to a relationship is sense of their own self-worth and confidence. When you TRULY feel confident, and comfortable in your own skin, you'll need to beat the guys away with a stick.

 

While you wait for the phone to ring, get busy with your life, and learn to love yourself first.

 

Regards,

Joanne - Toronto Canada

Thanks to everyone who answered Bernie's question. I had an amazing response with great replies. Keep them coming and sorry if yours wasn't picked on this occasion.

 

Click to read this week's Team Oracle question, and to send us your answer

I'm in Team Oracle :dance:

November 29, 2010 - submitted by Peter W, Ireland

 

Q. Oracle, is Christmas Lights an old song (Dec 2009) or is it a new album. While watching a video on YouTube I spied the titled and some Coldplay-esque art. The video was from December 2009.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Yes Peter the idea for the song started a while ago and there were snippets of it available on the Internet e.g YouTube via video/interview footage. The song isn't penned for the new album however; it's just a single release that happens to be out this week - "cannot wait" - that we've had teasers of over the past year or so.

November 29, 2010 - submitted by Christina, United States of America

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

 

Who in the world is the third Elvis in the Christmas Lights video?! I can recognize Phil and Simon Pegg, but I don't know who the third one is. He looks a lot like Guy, but it is definitely not Guy!

 

Thank you, have a nice day!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

It's funny because from the photos I can see how the 3rd Elvis looks like Guy but obviously that's impossible!

The other Elvis is someone some of you may know - it is in fact Tim Crompton.

November 30, 2010 - submitted by Devin, Netherlands

 

Q. Will the single Christmas Lights only be available on iTunes, or will it be in the shops too as a CD?

Devin.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

The track will not be available to buy on CD in shops but to all those asking, it will be available on iTunes worldwide.

November 30, 2010 - submitted by Jacob, United States of America

 

Q. Hello Oracle!

Have you been able to hear the entire Christmas Lights song or are you having to wait just like all of us?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I was lucky enough to hear it a few weeks ago but it's not long now until everyone will hear it... It's rather exciting!

November 30, 2010 - submitted by Maria, Spain

 

Q. Hi O!

When is the deadline for the Guy's old photos project?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

We'd like to make it the end of the year but if some come in after that, it will be fine so don't worry too much - especially with the festive postal season upon us.

November 30, 2010 - submitted by Kris, United States of America

 

Q. Is the Christmas Lights single going to have other songs on it? Like the previous singles?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

No, the track will just be released as a sole song with no extra tracks or b-sides.

November 30, 2010 - submitted by Devin, Netherlands[/color][/b]

 

Q. Will the single Christmas Lights only be available on iTunes, or will it be in the shops too as a CD?

Devin.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

The track will not be available to buy on CD in shops but to all those asking, it will be available on iTunes worldwide.

 

:disappointed:

 

(Still hoping it will be sent out as promos and end up on ebay :P)

December 1, 2010 - submitted by Santiago, Mexico

 

Q. Is it me or is Simon Pegg appearing on the video of Christmas Lights playing the violin?

 

Thanks a lot

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

One of the Elvises - playing violin - is indeed Simon Pegg. (The other two are Phil Harvey & as mentioned yesterday, Tim Crompton).

December 1, 2010 - submitted by Patrizio, Italy

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

I saw in the behind-the-scenes videos of Christmas Lights a lot of coloured confetti. Maybe this idea came from our choreography for the Italians' Viva La Vida Tour gigs, organized by Coldplayzone?

 

Please... give me an answer!!!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I'm sure you mean balloons; the confetti was happening long before their Italian visit. I'm aware of your successful balloon choreography that started as an online fan campaign. Did you know the Latin American fans were also doing it earlier this year. Maybe they saw your campaign and made one...

In answer to your specific question though Patrizio, no, that had no influence at all on the video for Christmas Lights but well done on your Coldplayzone plug! I rewarded you for your effort.

December 1, 2010 - submitted by Joseph, United States of America

 

Q. What did you mean when you said that Christmas Lights wasn't 'penned for the new album' in a response to Peter from Ireland? I looked through Coldplay's release history, and with the exception of the Parachutes album, a brand new single has only been released a month or less before a new album. This makes me think, "well hey Coldplay will have their album out for Christmas!" (And they better if they value my happiness.) I realize you couldn't tell us even if you did know when the next album comes out, but I just wanted to know what you meant in your other response. Thanks! :)

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Can I categorically say here and now that Christmas Lights is a stand alone song and has absolutely no bearing on what is to follow. Nor is it any indication of any kind as to when the album will be released. Please don't treat it as any previous single which is usually a prelude to an album; this is not the case.

I know that is both vague and specific but hey, let's just enjoy it!

 

* The short answer is no.

I wondered what the plural of Elvis was. From her answer, apparently it is "Evlises". For some reason my gut wants to say Elvii. Elvii sounds so much cooler. :awesome:

December 1, 2010 - submitted by Patrizio, Italy

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

I saw in the behind-the-scenes videos of Christmas Lights a lot of coloured confetti. Maybe this idea came from our choreography for the Italians' Viva La Vida Tour gigs, organized by Coldplayzone?

 

Please... give me an answer!!!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I'm sure you mean balloons; the confetti was happening long before their Italian visit. I'm aware of your successful balloon choreography that started as an online fan campaign. Did you know the Latin American fans were also doing it earlier this year. Maybe they saw your campaign and made one...

In answer to your specific question though Patrizio, no, that had no influence at all on the video for Christmas Lights but well done on your Coldplayzone plug! I rewarded you for your effort.

Patrizio :awesome:

December 2, 2010 - submitted by Nathanael, Ireland

 

Q. Hi Oracle, I've heard some rumours that Coldplay were forced to release Christmas Lights by EMI. Is this true?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Utter rubbish Nath! It's a slightly long story to explain how that could/would work with some bands/labels but here that just wouldn't be and wasn't the case.

December 2, 2010 - submitted by Marie, Czech Republic

 

Q. Dear Oracle.

What does it mean the sign above the curtain in the video Christmas Lights? Thank you

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Ha ha, a few people have been asking this. In the Christmas Lights video the words above the stage curtain say CREDO ELVEM ETIAM VIVERE. This means "I believe Elvis lives" in Latin.

December 4, 2010 - submitted by The Oracle, United Kingdom

 

Q. WHO'D LIKE TO JOIN TEAM ORACLE?

Welcome to week three of our new feature, Team Oracle.

Each Friday (with the question asker's permission) we

open up a question to all of you to answer too. Then, the

following Friday, I'll post a selection of the best answers,

alongside my own reply.

So, if you'd like to join in, please email your response (with

your name and country) to the following question, in no

more than 200 words, to [email protected] before

Thursday 9th December:

"I went out with this girl for 2 years and we were absolutely in love. Then we had to move to two different schools and she broke up with me because she thought it would be too hard. She got a new guy like 2 weeks later but I feel like he's just a rebound. Anyway, it has been 2 months since we broke up and we are meeting to talk things over. I just need some advice on what to say or whether I should just let her go because to be honest, I still love her more than anything in the world. Thank you very much for the help. Tom"

 

Look forward to seeing your replies.

The Oracle

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Please email your replies to [email protected]

December 4, 2010 - submitted by Sel, United States of America

 

Q. Q. TEAM ORACLE QUESTION - #2

Is it okay to be different? Should I change?

 

I'm in high school and 17. Someone told me I was weird but cool. They told me this because I am curious about the universe and love to watch documentaries. I also am not like the rest of my class mates. I don't keep up with fashion I just wear what I feel like wearing. Have I painted an image to the rest of my classmates that I am weird? Is this the reason some students don't talk to me? Should I change who I am?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Here's what I think... If someone told me I was weird and cool, I'd be thrilled they thought I was cool, but yeah, I guess weird would feel a little insulting. But hey, hang on I AM weird & cool! There's nothing wrong with being different - though as a teenager it may not seem so. It's a tricky time already without other people making you question yourself. I'd be amazed if people don't look back in the future and wish they'd stood out and been as interesting as you are. Different is good. It's simple; don't change who you are for others. Be proud of who and what you are. The difference in you is what makes you special.

 

Over to you:

Dear Sel, Whoa reading your letter was like looking in a mirror for me... albeit a mirror 40 years ago. I too was branded with the "weird " status. Personally don't you dare change a thing! Uniqueness is lacking in our world as is individuality. It is a gift to be your own person and not latch on to others style, personality and thinking patterns. Yes, it sets you apart and that is a GOOD thing. Give yourself time to get to know who you are and give yourself permission to be who you already are and friends, true friends, will get you and will understand you and admire your individuality. School can be tough but you are tougher and you have your own mind. Don't be afraid to use it, Laurie.

 

Hi Sel,

As a student, I know how it feels to be called "weird". You need to think, is changing who you are going to make YOU happy? Why be like everyone else? In other words, be yourself don't change yourself for anyone and if people don't like you, move on with life.

Take care

Jasely, 13 - USA

 

Dear Sel,

if I can tell you one thing, changing yourself only because somebody told you that you were weird is the worst thing you can do. Please, don't do that. I know what you feel, I'm 18 and I often feel lonely, because I'm not 'cool' enough to join a 'cool' group. But believe me, although sometimes I wonder whether I'd have more friends if I changed, I am sure that I'd feel terribly trying to be someone I'm not. Don't give up, I hope that there is someone out there, who will accept you as you are. Don't give up, I'm with you.

Cheers,

Kate - Poland

 

Dear Sel,

Here is a quote that I turn to often:

"The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself".

Friedrich Nietzsche

Hope this helps.

Lisa

Princeton, NJ USA

 

Sel,

I know exactly how you are feeling, for when I was around the same age (a little earlier though) I was going through the same thing. Do not let the pressure to fit in change who you are. It is a beautiful thing to not care what others are wearing, to be able to focus beyond the materialistic side of life, and instead focus on what you are most interested in. Continue with your curiosities and your passions, for they will lead you to true happiness.

Tyler

Boston, Mass US

 

Dear Sel,

I think its great you've your own style and your own avocations like the universe. In fact I'm a lot like you. I'm also 17, love the mysteries of the universe and watch documentaries on National Geographic and Discovery about it often. I'm not keeping up with fashion and like to be different. My friends like me the way I am and I see it as a compliment when someone calls me "weird" because it means I'm original. I think you should be more confident about yourself, and be proud of yourself because you dare to be different. When you've more self-confidence, more people will look up to you and see you as an example. So don't change! Always be yourself, it's my catch-phrase!

Greets Tara, the Netherlands

 

Sel,

You sound like a beautiful soul, never change yourself for someone else, always be who you are and who you want to be.

I am a mother of a 15yr old boy, and a 18 yr old girl, and I would love to give you a hug and let you know not to worry, believe in yourself and be confident, and people will notice that.

Every person on the planet is weird in their own way. Treat people around you the same way you would like to be treated and ever thing else will fall into place.

Good Luck, and many hugs.

Tracey from the USA

Wow Sel, this really struck a chord with younger and older fans alike but so many of your age going through the same situation. The response was overwhelming. Every single person said "no" with genuine well wishes.

 

Click to read this week's Team Oracle question, and to send us your answer.

My team oracle response was used:D

 

Sel,

You sound like a beautiful soul, never change yourself for someone else, always be who you are and who you want to be.

I am a mother of a 15yr old boy, and a 18 yr old girl, and I would love to give you a hug and let you know not to worry, believe in yourself and be confident, and people will notice that.

Every person on the planet is weird in their own way. Treat people around you the same way you would like to be treated and ever thing else will fall into place.

Good Luck, and many hugs.

Tracey from the USA

 

Wow Sel, this really struck a chord with younger and older fans alike but so many of your age going through the same situation. The response was overwhelming. Every single person said "no" with genuine well wishes.

December 6, 2010 - submitted by Joseph, United Kingdom

 

Q. Hey Oracle,

 

Managed to get tickets to the TOTP Coldplay performance of Christmas Lights and was wondering; where can I leave my stuff (mobile, camera etc) before I go in. The BBC website says they can be left "outside" but doesn't seem to indicate what that actually is. Is it a desk to hand them in or something or will I end up leaving on the floor outside the studio door? I'm coming from Devon so I will need to bring certain items with me such as ID and cash.

 

P.s: Did you get tickets?

 

Thanks

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Lots of TOTP questions coming in...

Whether from Devon or within London I expect everyone will be in the same situation so don't worry about that. I would also guess as with the majority of tv shows there will be a cloakroom system where you can check your belongings. I can assure you that you won't be expected to leave anything randomly lying around.

I didn't attempt to get tickets but hey, I'm pretty sure I could go if I tried really hard ;)

December 6, 2010 - submitted by Laurene, France

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

 

I'm going to Top of the Pops with a friend of mine, next Wednesday. I'd like to know if there's a possibility to meet the boys after the show to get dedicates or to take pictures?

Thanks a lot :-)

Laurene

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I'm afraid not Laurene as this is a television show's taping; there will be a lot of activity on the day. It's quite an involved process with hectic goings on co-ordinating all the acts who will be performing. I'm sure you understand that this is a great opportunity to see the boys up close but there will be direction given from the television crew.