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olrastrologytarot · 6 months ago

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Dionysus: The Multifaceted God of Wine, Ecstasy, and Transformation

Dionysus, also known as Bacchus in Roman tradition, is one of the most complex and multifaceted deities of ancient Greek mythology. As the god of wine, revelry, and ecstasy, Dionysus occupies a unique place in the pantheon, embodying themes of transformation, liberation, and the duality of human experience. This essay explores the various aspects of Dionysus, his mythology, and his cultural significance.

Origins and Birth

Dionysus’s origins are both divine and somewhat mysterious. According to myth, he is the son of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Semele, a mortal woman. The story of his birth is one of transformation and intrigue. Hera, the jealous wife of Zeus, tricked Semele into demanding that Zeus reveal himself in his full divine splendor. The sight was too much for Semele, who perished in the blaze. Zeus saved the unborn Dionysus by sewing him into his thigh, from which the god was later born, making Dionysus a god with a unique connection to both the mortal and divine realms.

God of Wine and Festivity

Dionysus is most famously known as the god of wine, viticulture, and festivity. He represents not only the pleasure and intoxication associated with wine but also its transformative power. Wine, in the Dionysian context, is not merely a beverage but a conduit for experiencing the divine and transcending ordinary reality. It symbolizes both ecstasy and chaos, revealing the dual nature of Dionysus's influence.

Festivals dedicated to Dionysus, such as the Dionysia and the Bacchanalia, were central to Greek culture. These festivals involved theatrical performances, particularly tragedies and comedies, which were believed to be inspired by the god. The Dionysian festivals were not only a celebration of the harvest but also an opportunity to explore the boundaries of human experience and to engage in communal revelry.

The Cult and Mysteries of Dionysus

The worship of Dionysus was marked by ecstatic rituals and mystery cults. The Dionysian Mysteries, which were held in various forms across Greece, were initiatory rites that promised personal transformation and enlightenment. These mysteries often involved rites of purification, symbolic death and rebirth, and ecstatic dance, reflecting the god’s role in breaking down social norms and exploring the depths of human consciousness.

Participants in these rituals often wore masks and costumes, embodying the god’s ability to transcend ordinary identities and societal constraints. Dionysian worship emphasized the ecstatic experience of divine presence, achieved through music, dance, and the consumption of wine. This state of ecstasy was seen as a way of connecting with the divine and accessing hidden truths.

Symbolism and Attributes

Dionysus’s symbols include the grapevine, ivy, and the thyrsus, a staff entwined with ivy and topped with a pine cone. The grapevine and ivy represent his association with fertility and growth, while the thyrsus is a symbol of his power and authority. In artistic depictions, Dionysus is often shown in a state of revelry, accompanied by a retinue of satyrs and maenads, who embody the wild and untamed aspects of his nature.

Dionysus’s dual nature is central to his symbolism. On one hand, he represents joy, liberation, and creativity, often associated with the freeing effects of wine and the exhilaration of artistic expression. On the other hand, he also embodies chaos, madness, and the breakdown of order, reflecting the destructive potential of his divine influence.

Mythological Narratives

Dionysus’s myths often explore themes of transformation, conflict, and the struggle for acceptance. One notable myth is the story of his journey to establish his cult in the city of Thebes. King Pentheus, who refuses to acknowledge Dionysus’s divinity, is ultimately torn apart by his own mother, Agave, who has been driven into a frenzied state by the god. This myth illustrates the consequences of resisting or denying the transformative power of Dionysus and highlights the god’s capacity for both creation and destruction.

Another important myth is the story of Dionysus and the pirate ship. According to legend, Dionysus was once captured by a group of pirates who did not recognize him. As punishment, he transformed the ship into a sea of wine and turned the pirates into dolphins, demonstrating his power and the divine retribution against those who do not honor him.

Cultural and Philosophical Impact

Dionysus's influence extends beyond mythology and religion into art, philosophy, and literature. The concept of the Dionysian, as articulated by the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche in his work "The Birth of Tragedy," represents a fundamental aspect of human existence, characterized by a celebration of chaos, creativity, and the primal forces of nature. Nietzsche contrasts the Dionysian with the Apollonian, which embodies reason, order, and rationality, suggesting that a balance between these forces is essential for a full and meaningful life.

In literature and art, Dionysus has been a symbol of the power of transformation and the limits of human understanding. His presence in tragic dramas, such as those of Euripides, often serves to challenge societal norms and explore the nature of divine influence on human affairs.

Conclusion

Dionysus is a deity who embodies the complexities of human experience, from the ecstatic highs of celebration to the dark depths of chaos. As the god of wine, revelry, and transformation, he represents both the joy and the danger inherent in breaking free from societal constraints and exploring the full range of human emotions and experiences. Through his myths, rituals, and cultural impact, Dionysus continues to be a powerful symbol of the divine’s capacity to both create and destroy, to liberate and to confound. His legacy endures as a reminder of the profound and often paradoxical nature of existence itself.

#mysticism #mystic #occultism #deity worship #hellenic deities #hellenic pagan #hellenic polytheism #hellenic worship #hellenism #cult of dionysus #dionysus deity #chatgpt #Dionysus

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writingquestionsanswered · 9 months ago

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Hi,

'm writing a novel set in the 1900s, including scenes from WW1. Any tips on maintaining accuracy for that period and writing in the style of novels from that era?

Authentic Portrayal of a Historical Era

If your story is set in another time and place, you'll need to do some research to make sure you get the details accurate. Luckily, there's information available online, in books, and on YouTube of just about every historical era in every place.

I want to take a moment to stress the importance of place, because life in early 1900s New York City would have been a little different from life in early 1900s Sacramento, for example. Likewise, life in an early 1900s Scottish village would be quite different from life in an early 1900s Indian village. So, make sure your general research pertains to the country of your story's setting, and that your specific research is geared toward a specific village, town, city, or region--or at the very least (if your specific location is imaginary) the closest real world proximity. Likewise, it's also very important to take socioeconomic status into account, because once again, life for an early 1900s socialite and her family in Manhattan would be quite different from the early 1900s life of a farmer in rural Manitoba.

When you're doing your research, you'll want to pay close attention to the following details:

-- societal rules and norms -- rules and norms around love and marriage -- role of culture and religion -- clothing, architecture, decor -- food and drink -- music -- customs, traditions, festivals -- typical occupations -- treatment/roles of women -- treatment/roles of children -- typical home life -- government and justice system -- transportation, tools, and weaponry -- notable "pop culture" and current events -- slang, idioms, and popular sayings -- important mythology, folklore, and urban legends

YouTube is a great resource for documentaries and documentary style videos to get a good breakdown of particular topics. Like, for example, let's say one of your characters is a wealthy New York socialite. There are videos on YouTube that will show you how a wealthy American or British woman (for example) would dress in the early 1900s. Likewise, you can watch a video about World War I or anything specific to WWI that you want to learn about.

WQA’s Guide to Internet Research Researching a Historical Topic Setting Your Story in an Unfamiliar Place Writing About Difficult to Research Topics

Happy researching and writing!

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I’ve been writing seriously for over 30 years and love to share what I’ve learned. Have a writing question? My inbox is always open!

♦ Questions that violate my ask policies will be deleted! ♦ Please see my master list of top posts before asking ♦ Learn more about WQA here

#wqaadvice

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psychabolition · 5 months ago

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The Depathologization of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)

What Im thinking is - why reform psych labels that were made to stigmatize us?

I'd love to think of new labels that arent pathologizing us for how we deviate from neuronormativity (=what societally deemed 'normal' to think/feel/do depending on your assigned gender/age/socioeconomic status/...). To me this is important since the biomedical model tells us that we're at fault for our suffering while simultaneously justifying violence against us.

To me the new defining (depathologized) aspects of our neurodivergency (=deviation from neuronormativity) ASPD - could include:

Inherently at odds with any hierarchy in our society and everyone who enforces those hierarchies upon us youth discrimination - teachers/parents, classism and racism - police and judges, capitalism - your boss/financial "obligations", ...

Deciding for yourself what is morally right and wrong instead of letting societies norms(=what is legal or illegal for example) tell you whats morally right or wrong

Often targets of hierarchy enforcing and/or state sanctioned violence because we are deemed dangerous to the "social order" =psychiatric incarceration, prisons, patriarchal violence, youth discrimination - child abuse, queerphobia - bullying/social ostracization - at the same time having experienced this violence often leads to our way of thinking and acting.

We value our own pleasure and time above anything else and often cant be assed to do anything that we dont like - like work or studying or beaurocratic bullshit the state forces onto us or sitting still for 8h in school, not being able to pay attention to things that arent interesting to us, being insanely bored by capitalist society and its mundane routines, saying and doing what we want when we want it, not being bothered trying to organize our day according to how society wants us to, simply walking out on things we dont like - home, movies,relationships, class,too fancy weed store💀

Not obeying social norms because you dont understand them and/or because you think theyre stupid /having a hard time with social norms generally examples: norm deviating clothing/makeup/self expression, gender nonconformity, using words/phrases that are unusual, saying 'inappropriate' things never doing small talk, being very direct/always honest, often lying for no reason, asking 'inappriopriate' questions, not understanding/relating to the emotional states others have,hating routines/questioning rules/...

Often lack of trust/paranoid/only have a small circle of people who we trust since we've often been betrayed by friends/family/partners who didnt show solidarity in our struggles or norm deviation examples: someone obeying to what the biological nuclear family wants is suddenly more important than them being a loyal friend/sibling to you, amatonormativity -your friends leaving you in the dirt for their romantic interests, our 'friends' calling the cops on us when we have a mental breakdown or they talk to the cops bc they think they have a chance to have a lesser sentence when they tell on you, friends valuing male validation above friendship, when you need money/a place to stay your friends are not there for you, patriarchal violence in relationships, ...

Having a very hard time dealing with hierarchy enforcing/state sanctioned violence/defying social norms every day/not having a place in society /being ostracized low mood, suicidal and homicidal thoughts, explosive anger or constant irritability due to injustices we had to endure, drug addiction, self harm, alienation from others - dissociation, emptiness, having a hard time knowing who you are in a world where its hard to have access for words and frameworks of thinking to describe someone like you and your experiences (languange to describe your neurodivergency and/or queerness - like abrosexual/agender/asexual/demiromantic/polyamorous/...), sometimes replicating the violence that you had to endure - as a child bullying other children, fear of betrayal or abandonment or social ostracization happening again, psychosis, (pseudo)-hallucinations, panic attacks, nightmares, low self esteem, reacting in extreme and impulsive ways when feeling out of control/unsafe/weak

@mischiefmanifold you inspired me to do this lol

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splashstar01 · 7 months ago

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Amazing Merthur meta (just for funsies) from a purely non-biased POV.... an AI.

I asked CHATGBT (do remember that Merthur is CANON and has been now for a 12 years or since 2012!):

"why would prince Arthur propose to Merlin but yet still pursue Gwen and then marry her but treat merlin like his husband and in the end confess his love to merlin and try to pull him into a kiss before dying"

CHATGBT:

This complex dynamic can be explained through various elements in the storyline that highlight Arthur's internal conflict, societal pressures, and true feelings. Here's a breakdown of potential reasons for Arthur's behavior:

1. Societal Expectations and Pressure:

As a prince, Arthur is expected to marry someone who is deemed socially acceptable, and Gwen fits this role better than Merlin. Marrying Gwen helps maintain his royal image and fulfill his duties.

2. Personal Conflict:

Arthur might be deeply in love with Merlin but struggles with the expectations placed upon him. His engagement and marriage to Gwen could be seen as attempts to adhere to societal norms while his heart remains with Merlin.

3. Emotional Attachment and Genuine Love:

Despite his marriage to Gwen, Arthur's bond with Merlin is profound and undeniable. He treats Merlin like his husband because, emotionally and spiritually, Merlin is his true partner.

4. Fear and Denial:

Arthur could be in denial about his feelings for Merlin, choosing to marry Gwen in an attempt to suppress his true desires. However, his actions and treatment of Merlin reveal his true emotions over time.

5. Sacrificial Love:

Arthur may believe that marrying Gwen is the best way to protect Merlin from the scrutiny and potential danger of being in a relationship with a prince. His actions towards Merlin show his deep care and love, even if he cannot publicly acknowledge it.

6. Final Realization and Acceptance:

In the end, Arthur's impending death forces him to confront his true feelings. His confession and attempt to kiss Merlin signify his acceptance of his love for Merlin, demonstrating that, at the end of his life, he values honesty and authenticity over societal expectations.

This intricate relationship can add depth to the narrative, showcasing the complexities of love, duty, and personal identity within the constraints of societal expectations.

~I totes agree, thank u, CHATGBT! 🥰

#merthur #merlin #arthur pendragon #bbc merlin #merlin bbc #merthur meta #chatgbt

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mariacallous · 7 months ago

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Even as a growing number of foreign governments commit to protecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people, others are actively marshaling their resources against them. From the Hungarian government’s legal and political attacks on LGBTQI+ people to Iraqi legislation that punishes those who “promote homosexuality” and increases criminal penalties and fines for same-sex relations, the negative trends are significant and concerning.

In many places, politicians blame LGBTQI+ people for a wide array of societal ills to boost their popularity at home and their geopolitical interests abroad, distracting from the real economic, social, and political challenges their countries face. In Georgia, for example, the ruling party may have used anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric to manipulate the political landscape ahead of elections. Meanwhile, in Lebanon, a country long considered relatively welcoming for LGBTQI+ people in the Middle East, one activist described a political leader’s rhetoric as “the manufacturing of a moral panic in order to justify a crackdown, and to deviate public attention away from their unpopular policies.”

Although human rights are seen by some as a lower-priority foreign-policy issue for the United States than so-called hard security threats, the failure to protect them abroad can have significant negative consequences for U.S. interests. Now more than ever, the United States needs to push back against foreign-government repression of LGBTQI+ rights while also doing this work at home. As U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken put it recently, this matters “not just because we have a moral imperative to do so,” but because doing so “helps strengthen democracy, bolster national security, and promote global health and economic development.”

Across a range of issues, it’s clear that anti-LGBTQI+ policies and rhetoric can cause significant damage to many of the United States’ top foreign-policy priorities.

To start, efforts to repress LGBTQI+ rights are often a canary in the coal mine for more severe persecution to come. A 2022 report found, for example: “From Nazi Germany to genocide in Darfur to the breakup of former Yugoslavia, the imposition of ‘moral’ codes that directly assault sexual and gender identities and freedoms came before widespread state-led physical violence and atrocity crimes.”

The targeting of LGBTQI+ people can also be a precursor to, or occur alongside, abuses against other vulnerable populations. The Taliban-promoted sexual assault of and life-threatening attacks on LGBTQI+ people, for example, have occurred concurrently with brutal restrictions on women’s and girls’ participation in education, work, and other aspects of public life. Likewise, vicious torture of gay men in the Russian Republic of Chechnya has taken place against a wider backdrop of long-term human rights abuses by Chechen authorities.

Erosion of LGBTQI+ human rights can also signal and exacerbate the breakdown of democratic norms and institutions, including restrictions on independent media and judicial review, serving as a bellwether for the state of civil society more generally. Russia’s recent detention and prosecution of LGBTQI+ people have paralleled its crackdown on independent journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society.

Countries in which the human rights of LGBTQI+ people are less respected also frequently have greater levels of corruption, partly because discriminatory legal regimes create barriers to reporting wrongdoing by corrupt officials, making LGBTQI+ people an easy target for extortion. Corruption, in turn, compounds other pressing problems: It degrades the business environment, drives migration, and impedes responses to public health crises and climate change. States with endemic corruption are also more vulnerable to terrorist networks, transnational organized crime, gang-related criminal actors, and human traffickers. This is, in part, because threats to transparent and accountable governance are among the root causes of radicalization, and restrictions on LGBTQI+ and other civil society organizations reduce the capacity of those groups to mitigate the conditions conducive to violent extremism, terrorism and other criminal activity.

Not only are anti-LGBTQI+ policies a drag on economic growth, but they are also detrimental to public health. Punitive laws fan the flames of stigma and discrimination, in turn making vulnerable communities reluctant to seek life-saving and public health-protecting services. Across 10 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, HIV prevalence in countries that criminalize homosexuality is five times higher among men who have sex with men than in countries without those laws.

Taken together, the failure to protect LGBTQI+ people’s human rights can create disastrous effects for U.S. interests. State-sponsored discrimination and violence undercut the United States’ tremendous investments in international anti-corruption efforts, counter-terrorism programs, economic development, and public health. And, as the COVID-19 pandemic made clear, a disease threat anywhere can quickly become a disease threat everywhere. The same can be said for terrorism, corruption, and economic instability. When governments target LGBTQI+ people, they also increase the chances that the symptoms and consequences of this repression will spread in their communities and across borders.

Given the stakes, it is crucial that the United States uses the tools and powers it has to promote accountability for human rights abuses and mitigate their harms to U.S. citizens and businesses.

In this respect, the recent heightened repression by the Ugandan government is illustrative. In May 2023, Uganda signed into law the Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA), which mandated the death penalty for certain “serial” offenses and a 20-year prison sentence for the mere “promotion” of homosexuality. Although the legislation was decried by human rights advocates, it was lauded by some of Uganda’s geopolitical partners as evidence of shared interests. Shortly after the legislation was passed, the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi visited Uganda and made the unfortunately common—and demonstrably inaccurate—claim that homosexuality is a Western import. He also identified opposition to Western support for LGBTQI+ people as “another area of cooperation for Iran and Uganda.” In similar fashion, an editorial on the pro-Kremlin Tsargrad website summarized the law as “a geopolitical victory [for Russia], which they see as the direct result of years of their hard, methodical work [on a] global anti-LGBTQ hate campaign.”

The AHA was the final, egregious straw amid an ongoing decline in respect for human rights, including of LGBTQI+ people, and democratic backsliding in Uganda, and the United States’ response was swift and comprehensive. Underscoring the link between the violation of the human rights of LGBTQI+ people and broader harms to American interests, U.S. President Joe Biden described the law as part of an “alarming trend of human rights abuses and corruption.” The United States issued a business advisory; updated the U.S. Travel Advisory and Country Information Page for Uganda; expanded existing visa restrictions to include those repressing vulnerable populations, such as human rights advocates, LGBTQI+ people, and environmental defenders; supported the World Bank’s decision to pause Uganda’s access to new funds; and imposed sanctions on the Commissioner General of the Uganda Prisons Service for widespread violations of human rights, including credible reports of physical abuse of political opposition and LGBTQI+ people. President Biden also determined that Uganda did not meet the eligibility requirements of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), “on the basis of gross violations of internationally recognized human rights.”

Although the law remains in place, these actions and international attention have had effect: Uganda’s government has not conducted widespread roundups of or ordered death sentences against LGBTQI+ people. But violence, abuse, and evictions have increased in the country, and arrests of LGBTQI+ people have persisted and likely risen under an earlier, colonial-era law that criminalizes same-sex conduct.

As the situation in Uganda demonstrates, the United States has options to respond to foreign governments that fail to uphold their human rights obligations. These measures can be unilateral, as is the case for issuing travel advisories or removing trade preferences, or multilateral, which could involve working with the United Nations, the World Bank, or other multilateral institutions. They can also be affirmative, as opposed to punitive—for instance, expanding humanitarian and development assistance for human rights defenders and mobilizing private sector capital to support businesses that operate consistent with international non-discrimination standards.

As with all diplomatic efforts to address wrongdoing, the choice among these options will vary depending on circumstances, such as whether a government is launching a new campaign against LGBTQI+ people or has an older but little-enforced criminal law on its books. Inevitably, the importance of raising human rights concerns will be weighed against other U.S. priorities, and human rights will not always prevail. However, increasingly, LGBTQI+ issues are being integrated into bilateral relationships, even when doing so is not easy and when quiet diplomacy is the only option. In all circumstances, consultation with LGBTQI+ civil society must be prioritized in weighing the benefits and risks of action to ensure that efforts do not contribute to backlash or negative repercussions for LGBTQI+ people on the frontlines of global human rights movements.

In a recent State Department convening on LGBTQI+ rights in U.S. foreign policy, Secretary Blinken made our commitment clear, telling civil society leaders: “Our promise is this: We will be with you every step of the way. We’ll persevere with you. We’ll listen to you. We’ll learn from you. We’ll help resource and support your fight. And we’ll bring our strength together with yours so that finally together we can build a world where all people are genuinely free—free to be who they are, free to love who they love.”

Although this work may have been in the spotlight during Pride month, it requires our focus year-round. Indeed, our national security depends on it.

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annoyangle · 7 months ago

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Is weirdmaggeddon coming after your book comes out?

WEIRDMAGEDDON NEVER ENDS! IT ONLY CHANGED FORM INTO ONE THAT YOUR WORLD CAN PROCESS! LOOK AROUND YOU! LOOK AT THE WEATHER! LOOK AT THE AIR! LOOK AT THE FOOLS ON DISPLAY! LOOK AT THE BREAKDOWN OF SOCIETAL NORMS AND SACRED TRADITIONS! WEIRDMAGEDDON IS NOW AND FOREVER NOW THAT I'M HERE!!

#ask bill cipher #inbox reply #I'M SPILLING SECRETS!#AND IT'S JUST GETTING STARTED KIDS

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badomensastrology · 4 days ago

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The Natal Chart of Noah Sebastian. (Part 2)

I have compiled in deep retrospective of Noah’s natal chart. This took some time, and I find his chart to be extremely fascinating. It’s great to read about someone’s personality through astrology, and I wanted to share it to you all here. Now I know astrology is not always set in stone, please take this with a grain of salt because he is a an actual person just like you and me. This reading is for fun purposes only.

This is going to be a long and detailed post.

Mars in Sagittarius - 3rd House

With Noah's Mars in Sagittarius in the 3rd house, I can see that his drive, energy, and motivation are deeply influenced by his adventurous, expansive, and freedom-loving nature. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Adventurous Communication*: Sagittarius is a sign of adventure and exploration, and with Mars in Sagittarius, Noah's communication style might be characterized by a desire to explore new ideas, expand his knowledge, and push beyond the boundaries of conventional thinking. He might be drawn to discussing philosophy, spirituality, or abstract concepts that allow him to explore the depths of human understanding.

*Restless Energy*: Mars in Sagittarius can give Noah a restless, energetic quality that drives him to constantly seek out new experiences, challenges, and adventures. He might have a hard time sitting still, both physically and mentally, and be constantly looking for ways to expand his horizons and explore new territories.

*Freedom-Loving Nature*: Sagittarius is a sign of freedom and independence, and with Mars in Sagittarius, Noah might have a strong desire to break free from constraints, rules, and limitations that restrict his ability to explore and express himself. He might be drawn to unconventional or unorthodox approaches to life, and be willing to take risks to pursue his passions and interests.

*Philosophical Debates*: Mars in Sagittarius can give Noah a love of philosophical debates, intellectual sparring, and exploring the deeper meanings of life. He might be drawn to discussing complex, abstract concepts, and be willing to engage in lively debates to explore new ideas and perspectives.

*Impulsive Expression*: Mars in Sagittarius can also give Noah a tendency to express himself impulsively, without fully thinking through the consequences of his words or actions. He might be prone to speaking his mind without filtering his thoughts, which can sometimes lead to conflicts or misunderstandings with others.

*Third House Focus*: With Mars in the 3rd house, Noah's drive, energy, and motivation might be closely tied to his communication style, thought process, and daily interactions. He might be particularly drawn to exploring new ideas, expanding his knowledge, and pushing beyond the boundaries of conventional thinking through his daily conversations, writing, or artistic pursuits.

*Fear of Confinement*: Sagittarius is a sign of freedom and expansion, and with Mars in Sagittarius, Noah might have a deep-seated fear of being confined, restricted, or limited in any way. He might be afraid of losing his independence, being trapped in a situation, or being forced to conform to societal norms.

Jupiter in Sagittarius - 4th House

With Noah's Jupiter in Sagittarius in the 4th house, I can see that his sense of expansion, growth, and optimism are deeply influenced by his desire for freedom, exploration, and adventure in his personal life and emotional foundations. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Expansive Emotional Foundations*: Jupiter in Sagittarius can give Noah an expansive and optimistic approach to his emotional foundations, making him naturally inclined to explore the depths of his own psyche and emotional landscape. He might be drawn to exploring the mysteries of the human heart, and be fascinated by the complexities of emotional experience.

*Freedom-Loving Home Life*: With Jupiter in the 4th house, Noah's sense of home and family life might be characterized by a desire for freedom, independence, and a sense of adventure. He might be drawn to unconventional or unorthodox approaches to family and relationships, and be willing to take risks to pursue his passions and interests.

*Philosophical Approach to Emotions*: Sagittarius is a sign of philosophy and higher learning, and with Jupiter in Sagittarius, Noah might approach his emotions with a philosophical mindset, seeking to understand the deeper meanings and connections behind his feelings. He might be drawn to exploring the spiritual or metaphysical dimensions of emotional experience.

*Restless Inner World*: Jupiter in Sagittarius can also give Noah a restless inner world, where he is constantly seeking to expand his emotional horizons, explore new depths, and push beyond the boundaries of his own emotional understanding. He might be prone to feelings of restlessness, discontent, or dissatisfaction if he is not able to explore and express himself freely.

*Optimistic Outlook*: Jupiter is a planet of optimism and expansion, and with Jupiter in Sagittarius, Noah might have a naturally optimistic outlook on life, even in the face of challenges or difficulties. He might be drawn to exploring the positive aspects of any situation, and be willing to take risks to pursue his dreams and aspirations.

*Emotional Freedom and Autonomy*: Jupiter in the 4th house can also give Noah a strong desire for emotional freedom and autonomy. He might be resistant to external influences or pressures that try to shape his emotions or dictate how he should feel. Instead, he might be drawn to exploring his own emotional truth, and be willing to take risks to express himself authentically and honestly.

Saturn in Pisces - 7th House

With Noah's Saturn in Pisces in the 7th house, I can see that his sense of responsibility, discipline, and authority are deeply influenced by his relationships and partnerships. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Fear of Abandonment and Rejection*: With Saturn in Pisces, Noah might have a deep-seated fear of abandonment and rejection in his relationships. He might be haunted by the possibility of being left or rejected by his partners, and this fear could drive him to seek security and stability in his relationships.

*Sense of Responsibility in Partnerships*: Saturn in the 7th house can give Noah a strong sense of responsibility in his partnerships. He might feel a deep sense of duty and obligation to his partners, and be willing to make sacrifices and compromises to maintain harmony and balance in the relationship.

*Boundary Issues*: Pisces is a sign of blurred boundaries and fluidity, and with Saturn in Pisces, Noah might struggle with setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in his relationships. He might be prone to over-giving or over-sacrificing, which could lead to feelings of resentment and burnout.

*Fear of Intimacy*: Saturn in Pisces can also indicate a fear of intimacy and closeness in relationships. Noah might be hesitant to get too close or vulnerable with his partners, fearing that he will be hurt or rejected. This could lead to a pattern of pushing partners away or sabotaging relationships before they get too intense.

*Needing to Be Needed*: With Saturn in Pisces, Noah might have a deep-seated need to be needed and wanted by his partners. He might feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment when he is able to provide for and support his partners, and might feel lost or unfulfilled if he is not needed in this way.

*Karmic Relationships*: Saturn in the 7th house can also indicate a pattern of karmic relationships, where Noah attracts partners who are somehow "broken" or in need of fixing. He might feel a sense of responsibility to help or rescue his partners, and might attract partners who are drawn to his sense of authority and stability.

*Fear of Loss and Separation*: Finally, Saturn in Pisces can indicate a deep-seated fear of loss and separation in relationships. Noah might be haunted by the possibility of losing his partners or being separated from them, and this fear could drive him to cling to relationships or partners that are not healthy for him.

Uranus in Capricorn - 5th House

With Noah's Uranus in Capricorn in the 5th house, I can see that his sense of creativity, self-expression, and individuality are deeply influenced by his desire for structure, discipline, and authority. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Rebellious Creativity*: Uranus in Capricorn can give Noah a rebellious streak when it comes to creativity and self-expression. He might be drawn to unconventional or avant-garde forms of artistic expression, and be willing to challenge traditional norms and authority figures in order to pursue his creative vision.

*Disciplined Innovation*: Capricorn is a sign of discipline and responsibility, and with Uranus in Capricorn, Noah might approach his creative pursuits with a sense of discipline and responsibility. He might be drawn to innovative and cutting-edge approaches to art and self-expression, but also be willing to put in the hard work and effort required to bring his ideas to fruition.

*Authority Issues in Creativity*: Uranus in the 5th house can indicate that Noah has authority issues when it comes to his creative pursuits. He might be resistant to external authority figures or structures that try to dictate how he should express himself creatively. Instead, he might be drawn to exploring new and unconventional forms of creative expression that allow him to maintain his independence and autonomy.

*Unconventional Romantic Expression*: With Uranus in Capricorn in the 5th house, Noah's romantic expression might be unconventional and unorthodox. He might be drawn to partners who are creative, innovative, and willing to challenge traditional norms and authority figures. He might also be prone to sudden, unexpected changes or surprises in his romantic relationships.

*Fear of Conformity*: Uranus in Capricorn can indicate a deep-seated fear of conformity and stagnation in Noah's creative pursuits. He might be haunted by the possibility of becoming too conventional or traditional in his approach to art and self-expression, and might be driven to constantly innovate and experiment in order to avoid feeling trapped or stifled.

*Need for Autonomy in Creativity*: Finally, Uranus in Capricorn in the 5th house can indicate a deep-seated need for autonomy and independence in Noah's creative pursuits. He might be resistant to external influences or pressures that try to shape his creative vision, and might be drawn to exploring new and unconventional forms of creative expression that allow him to maintain his independence and individuality.

Neptune in Capricorn - 5th House

With Noah's Neptune in Capricorn in the 5th house, I can see that his sense of creativity, self-expression, and individuality are deeply influenced by his desire for spiritual connection, transcendence, and mysticism. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Spiritual Creativity*: Neptune in Capricorn can give Noah a spiritual approach to creativity and self-expression. He might be drawn to exploring the mystical and transcendent dimensions of art and creativity, and be interested in using his creative pursuits as a means of connecting with something greater than himself.

*Disciplined Mysticism*: Capricorn is a sign of discipline and responsibility, and with Neptune in Capricorn, Noah might approach his spiritual pursuits with a sense of discipline and responsibility. He might be drawn to exploring the mystical and transcendent dimensions of reality, but also be willing to put in the hard work and effort required to achieve spiritual growth and understanding.

*Authority Issues in Spirituality*: Neptune in the 5th house can indicate that Noah has authority issues when it comes to his spiritual pursuits. He might be resistant to external authority figures or structures that try to dictate how he should approach spirituality or creativity. Instead, he might be drawn to exploring new and unconventional forms of spiritual expression that allow him to maintain his independence and autonomy.

*Unconventional Romantic Expression*: With Neptune in Capricorn in the 5th house, Noah's romantic expression might be unconventional and unorthodox. He might be drawn to partners who are spiritual, mystical, and willing to explore the deeper dimensions of reality. He might also be prone to sudden, unexpected changes or surprises in his romantic relationships.

*Fear of Illusion*: Neptune in Capricorn can indicate a deep-seated fear of illusion and deception in Noah's creative pursuits. He might be haunted by the possibility of being misled or deceived by his own desires or illusions, and might be driven to constantly seek out the truth and reality in his creative pursuits.

*Need for Transcendence in Creativity*: Finally, Neptune in Capricorn in the 5th house can indicate a deep-seated need for transcendence and spiritual connection in Noah's creative pursuits. He might be drawn to exploring the mystical and transcendent dimensions of art and creativity, and might be interested in using his creative pursuits as a means of connecting with something greater than himself.

Pluto in Scorpio - 3rd House

With Noah's Pluto in Scorpio in the 3rd house, I can see that his communication style, thought processes, and relationships with siblings and neighbors are deeply influenced by his desire for intensity, passion, and transformation. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Intense Communication Style*: Pluto in Scorpio can give Noah an intense and passionate communication style. He might be drawn to exploring the deeper, darker aspects of human nature and experience, and be willing to confront and transform his own thoughts and emotions in order to communicate more effectively.

*Penetrating Insight*: Scorpio is a sign of penetration and insight, and with Pluto in Scorpio, Noah might have a penetrating insight into the motivations and desires of those around him. He might be able to see through superficialities and get to the heart of the matter, and be drawn to exploring the mysteries of human psychology and behavior.

*Transformative Thinking*: Pluto in the 3rd house can indicate that Noah's thought processes are transformative and regenerative. He might be drawn to exploring new and unconventional ideas and perspectives, and be willing to challenge and transform his own beliefs and assumptions in order to grow and evolve.

*Power Struggles with Siblings*: Pluto in Scorpio can also indicate power struggles and intense conflicts with siblings and neighbors. Noah might be drawn to exploring the darker aspects of his relationships with others, and be willing to confront and transform his own desires and motivations in order to create more authentic and meaningful connections.

*Fear of Betrayal*: Pluto in Scorpio can indicate a deep-seated fear of betrayal and deception in Noah's relationships with others. He might be haunted by the possibility of being hurt or betrayed by those he trusts, and might be driven to constantly seek out the truth and reality in his relationships.

*Need for Authenticity in Communication*: Finally, Pluto in Scorpio in the 3rd house can indicate a deep-seated need for authenticity and honesty in Noah's communication style. He might be drawn to exploring the deeper, more authentic aspects of human connection, and be willing to confront and transform his own desires and motivations in order to create more meaningful and lasting relationships.

North Node in Libra - 2nd House

With Noah's North Node in Libra in the 2nd house, I can see that his sense of purpose, direction, and soul mission are deeply influenced by his desire for balance, harmony, and beauty in his values, possessions, and sense of self-worth. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Balanced Values*: The North Node in Libra can give Noah a strong desire for balance and harmony in his values and sense of self-worth. He might be drawn to exploring the beauty and aesthetics of life, and be interested in creating a sense of harmony and equilibrium in his relationships and possessions.

*Harmonious Possessions*: Libra is a sign of beauty and harmony, and with the North Node in the 2nd house, Noah might be drawn to acquiring possessions that reflect his sense of beauty and harmony. He might be interested in collecting art, antiques, or other beautiful objects that bring him joy and satisfaction.

*Sense of Self-Worth*: The 2nd house is associated with one's sense of self-worth and values, and with the North Node in Libra, Noah's sense of self-worth might be deeply tied to his ability to create harmony and balance in his life. He might feel a strong sense of purpose and direction when he is able to create beauty and harmony in his relationships and possessions.

*Partnerships and Collaborations*: Libra is a sign of partnerships and collaborations, and with the North Node in the 2nd house, Noah might be drawn to forming partnerships and collaborations that reflect his sense of beauty and harmony. He might be interested in working with others to create something beautiful and meaningful, and might feel a strong sense of purpose and direction when he is able to do so.

*Fear of Imbalance*: The North Node in Libra can also indicate a deep-seated fear of imbalance and disharmony in Noah's life. He might be haunted by the possibility of creating ugliness or discord, and might be driven to constantly seek out beauty and harmony in his relationships and possessions.

*Need for Beauty and Harmony*: Finally, the North Node in Libra in the 2nd house can indicate a deep-seated need for beauty and harmony in Noah's life. He might be drawn to exploring the aesthetics of life, and might feel a strong sense of purpose and direction when he is able to create beauty and harmony in his relationships and possessions.

Lilith in Cancer - 10th House

With Noah's Lilith in Cancer in the 10th house, I can see that his sense of authority, reputation, and career are deeply influenced by his desire for nurturing, protection, and care. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Nurturing Authority*: Lilith in Cancer can give Noah a nurturing and protective approach to authority and leadership. He might be drawn to taking care of others and creating a sense of safety and security in his career and public life.

*Maternal Instincts*: Cancer is a sign of maternal instincts and caregiving, and with Lilith in the 10th house, Noah might have a strong desire to nurture and care for others in his career and public life. He might be drawn to roles that involve teaching, mentoring, or caring for others.

*Fear of Rejection*: Lilith in Cancer can also indicate a deep-seated fear of rejection and abandonment in Noah's career and public life. He might be haunted by the possibility of being rejected or abandoned by others, and might be driven to constantly seek out validation and approval.

*Need for Emotional Security*: The 10th house is associated with one's reputation and career, and with Lilith in Cancer, Noah might have a deep-seated need for emotional security and stability in his career and public life. He might feel a strong sense of purpose and direction when he is able to create a sense of safety and security for himself and others.

*Unconventional Career Path*: Lilith is a symbol of the unconscious and the unknown, and with Lilith in the 10th house, Noah might be drawn to an unconventional career path that involves exploring the unknown or the unconscious. He might be interested in careers that involve psychology, spirituality, or the occult.

*Rebellious Streak*: Finally, Lilith in Cancer in the 10th house can indicate a rebellious streak in Noah's career and public life. He might be drawn to challenging traditional norms and authority structures, and might feel a strong sense of purpose and direction when he is able to create change and transformation in his career and public life.

Chiron in Libra - 2nd House

With Noah's Chiron in Libra in the 2nd house, I can see that his sense of self-worth, values, and possessions are deeply influenced by his desire for balance, harmony, and beauty. Here's a breakdown of how this placement might shape him as a person:

*Wounded Sense of Self-Worth*: Chiron in Libra can indicate a wounded sense of self-worth and values, and with Chiron in the 2nd house, Noah might have a deep-seated fear of being unworthy or unlovable. He might feel that he is not good enough or that he doesn't deserve to have beautiful things or relationships.

*Fear of Imbalance*: Libra is a sign of balance and harmony, and with Chiron in the 2nd house, Noah might have a deep-seated fear of imbalance and disharmony in his relationships and possessions. He might feel that he is constantly struggling to create balance and harmony in his life, and that he is never quite able to achieve it.

*Need for Beauty and Harmony*: The 2nd house is associated with one's sense of self-worth and values, and with Chiron in Libra, Noah might have a deep-seated need for beauty and harmony in his relationships and possessions. He might feel a strong sense of purpose and direction when he is able to create beauty and harmony in his life.

*Healing through Beauty*: Chiron is a symbol of the wounded healer, and with Chiron in Libra in the 2nd house, Noah might have a deep-seated desire to heal himself and others through beauty and harmony. He might be drawn to careers or hobbies that involve creating beauty and harmony, such as art, design, or music.

*Unconventional Values*: Libra is a sign of balance and harmony, but it is also a sign of unconventional values and approaches. With Chiron in Libra in the 2nd house, Noah might have unconventional values and approaches to relationships and possessions. He might be drawn to alternative or non-traditional forms of beauty and harmony.

*Fear of Being Trapped*: Finally, Chiron in Libra in the 2nd house can indicate a deep-seated fear of being trapped or limited in one's relationships and possessions. Noah might feel a strong sense of purpose and direction when he is able to break free from limitations and create a sense of freedom and independence in his life.

#bad omens #noah sebastian #noah sebastian astrology #bad omens astrology

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eightmandibles · 1 year ago

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Mawaru Penguindrum Phrases Breakdown

I've written a big long post breaking down some of the repeated phrases of the show Mawaru Penguindrum because rewatching it a year ago gave me brainrot. Hope those who r interested enjoy.

Alright this has been occupying my brain for so long it should've started paying rent so I've decided to finally write it all up. Some of these are my own thoughts, but a lot of these are pieces of interpretations that are floating out there on the web. I just didn’t find any one place that compiles them all and puts them together.

Mawaru Penguindrum is the first Ikuhara show I ever watched and something about it really changed my brain forever even though I didn’t really understand what I was watching the first time through (because I was in middle school). I love its surreality and the density of its visual metaphors that all feed into each other has me like an insane person complete with a red string conspiracy board (that will be a section later). It’s show that challenges the viewers to piece together concepts and leaves questions for them to answer on their own, some intended and some probably not as much. I admire the ambition and the commitment to exist in a space that's between trite judgements of black and white, good and evil, and to trust the viewer to really engage with the work.

In this blog post I’m going to break down some of the major catchphrases of the show because they exemplify how the visual/thematic density rewards viewers who spend the time to really engage with the material. It also personally fascinates me as someone who enjoys these puzzle box-type themes and narratives that have the answers staring you right in the face from the beginning, but you just didn’t have the tools to understand what you were being cryptically told.

MAWARU PENGUINDRUM

We gotta start from the beginning and break down the title first of course.

MAWARU: spinning, turning, rotating - which brings themes like revolution and cycles to mind

It’s probably also nod to Revolutionary Girl Utena (though both shows share a lot of themes in examining and trying to challenge or examine societal norms, structures, and cycles).

PENGUINDRUM:

First layer of understanding: the physical diary that the Kanba and Shoma must find (actually it’d be more accurate the say the first layer is just being like “this is a nonsense word” but I digress)

Let’s do another layer of breakdowns -

PENGUIN: Flightless birds that belong neither to the land or the sea - chosen to represent the idea of the “unchosen.” Those in Antarctica need to rely on their community to survive in their harsh environment, huddling and rotating (mawaru…) to keep everyone warm.

There’s a common rumor out there that Ikuhara said penguins were also chosen because it sounds like “pingguo” which is apple in Chinese. Honestly I believe it because he seems to be the kind of person to say stuff like that, but also I’ve never found a source on this.

DRUM: An instrument that keeps a steady beat…like a heartbeat…badum tss. The apple in the show always being red reinforces this association.

Second layer of understanding: When the diary is lost, what the “penguindrum” is exactly becomes more nebulous and we start operating in a metaphor-as-reality world. In terms of visual representation in the show, the “penguindrum” is the “apple” the siblings have been sharing among themselves.

The Penguindrum being represented by an apple means there’s a lot of associations tied into its image. In the show, apples are a visual metaphor for being "chosen". Classically, apples are also the fruit of original sin (like fate��not to jump ahead but remember this for later) - which ties into the concept of “punishment” that Himari's fate is framed as.

Because of the breakdown from earlier (and also all the chest puncturing imagery in the show lol), we can also understand the Penguindrum to be associated with the heart - often in turn associated with love, which is a very loaded concept to dig through, especially as presented in the show (romantic, platonic, and/or familial connections; sacrifice, community, etc.)

Taking these all together, a third layer of interpretation is that Mawaru Penguindrum refers to the cycle (Mawaru) of sharing bonds/fate/connection/love (Penguindrum) between the show’s characters.

SURVIVAL STRATEGY

This phrase is what signals the Princess of the Crystal's presence and initiates the transformation sequence that takes the brothers into a surreal world.

The common reading of this is again the reference of penguins needing to huddle together to survive the cold of Antarctica. They rotate who bears the cold wind of the outside circle in order for the whole flock to survive. Basically, we need the help and support of each other to survive the cold winds of an uncaring society.

While thinking on this phrase, I was struck by how every character’s drive in the show can be explained as “survival strategies” they learned as children. Perhaps it’s a bit of a stretch to apply it in the way this phrase is used in psychology, but I do think it at least refers to the ideology characters take on as children due to their traumatic childhood events or from flawed role models.

Ringo’s “survival strategy” is the most explicitly stated in the show: in episode 6, she believes her parents are on the verge of divorce because she is not Momoka - therefore to keep her family together she resolves to become Momoka.

The origin of Kanba and Himari’s core approaches to life appear in the flashbacks of episodes 5 and 9 respectively. The Takakura parents each protect the two adopted children from injury by glass, a nod to their original unchosen fate. In doing so, they’re set up as the direct masculine and feminine role models that the two children learn from and model themselves on. I’m not sure it’s accurate to say that the lessons they internalize are strictly “wrong,” because I don’t think Penguindrum is interested in discussing characters like that, but they definitely are flawed.

Shoma deals with guilt from his family’s “sin” and grapples with the idea of taking responsibility for his parents’ actions.

Tabuki and Yuri still believe themselves to be “unloved children” and that’s why they keep pursuing Momoka or seeking revenge for her. They struggle to believe there’s a place in the world for them without their savior there.

Masako is a pretty clear one as well - she internalizes her grandfather’s habits and beliefs in order to try and fit in, even if it never earned her any respect in his eyes.

The childhood of the characters in the show informed how they viewed the society they grew up in, and what they needed to do or become in order to survive.

YOU WHO WILL NEVER AMOUNT TO ANYTHING, FIND THE PENGUINDRUM

Honestly I’m obsessed with the phrases that first sound like absolute nonsense, but cool absolute nonsense. This is the phrase that made me want to write this blog post in the first place.

The phrase is the call-to-action by the mysterious Princess of the Crystal. On first viewing, we can interpret so little of this sentence it’s really just a tool to sound cool and give us a snapshot of the Princess of the Crystal’s personality - haughty, cryptic, and generally unhelpful. It gives Kanba and Shoma a goal, even though neither us nor them understand what the hell it is.

YOU WHO WILL NEVER AMOUNT TO ANYTHING

As the show goes on, the themes and concepts around being a chosen or unchosen child arise. Those who are unchosen and unloved go to the Child Broiler to be turned into glass. This is semi-metaphorical and semi-literal (diegetic might be an appropriate word in a weird way) - metaphorically it can be interpreted as becoming a forgettable, blandly molded member of society, though being processed is acknowledged more like death in the show. In some ways that’s still accurate.

Each of the siblings started without an apple, literally-metaphorically starving of love and unchosen - originally they were fated to never amount to anything.

FIND THE PENGUINDRUM

Obviously this initially refers to the diary in the show, but as we broke down earlier PENGUINDRUM eventually takes on a more loaded meaning akin to love, bond, and connection.

So over the course of watching the show, the phrase transforms from a one-sided order and condemnation to a call to action. Put all together with a little more elaboration: You who were unchosen and unloved from the beginning, in order to survive in this harsh world you must find love and connection with people to share your life with, through good and bad.

I COME FROM THE DESTINATION OF YOUR FATE

Time to bust out the conspiracy red string board, literally-metaphorically.

The Red Line is the literal, metaphorical, and thematic spine of the show. There are two big starting categories for viewing The Red Line in the show, which then mix together to create new meanings as the show references it through imagery and dialogue.

First up, the Red Line refers to an actual train line that the entire show takes place upon, the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line. The entire show is structured around the train line which starts with the Ogikubo Station and ends at Ikebukuro, with important locations being linked with the actual train stops. It was one of the train lines attacked in real life as part of the Tokyo subway sarin attack in 1995 which the Pingu group’s terrorist attack in the show is a very transparent reference to. This single point in time in 1995 is the origin of almost everything in Mawaru Penguindrum, and in fact almost half the cast is born on the exact day the Pingu group attacks, just to emphasize how closely their fates are tied to the attack.

Second, the Red Line can be seen as a representation of fate, as in the red string of fate. Fate and destiny are concepts brought up over and over again, with Shoma and Ringo having their own monologues about it in the first two episodes (and Kanba having his much later). The visualization of the red string of fate can also be seen in the ending animations.

Somewhere in between is the Red Line as the metaphor of a train to visualize fate. Fate is something that can’t be changed - just like how trains run on fixed tracks with fixed destinations. Of course this is challenged in the show - Momoka even uses the metaphor of changing train tracks to explain her ability.

Now, fate has its own set of associations, such as: destiny, love, connection, bond (hmm familiar), as well as superstitions like fated meetings, fated demises, divine determination.

These can start branching off into concepts like blessings, sins, retribution, and karma (cue the Fate monologues again). And now we start getting back into the idea of cycles: downward spirals of getting what one deserves for their actions, passing on one’s sins to those after you - or virtuous cycles of doing good deeds and passing love and care forward.

Often in discussions of fate, familiar questions arise. Does the beginning determine the end? Is the end fated from the beginning? And so the Red Line becomes the Red Circle, another visual device seen throughout the show. It’s all over the motion graphics of the show and appears around the train stations as well as around ‘95’, referencing the originating incident of it all - the beginning of the Takakura family that determined their end.

What I love about this use of the Red Line is that however you progress your understanding of the its importance to the show, it all helps you further understand any concept Mawaru Penguindrum is discussing. This coherence and repetition of visual metaphors is what allows the show to feel more texturally and thematically cohesive even when it starts getting loose in a plot sense.

(Going back to the initial phrase, I COME FROM THE DESTINATION OF YOUR FATE is said by the Princess of the Crystal in her introduction monologue. It likely lampshades the predetermined ending that the Takakura brothers are so desperately trying to avoid. But also, there is a much funnier, much more literal interpretation I enjoy - Ikebukuro, the last stop on the train line, is where the aquarium the siblings visit is. It’s also where the brothers bought the novelty penguin hat for Himari. So the Princess of the Crystal literally came from the destination (last stop) of your fate (the red line)!)

LET’S SHARE THE FRUIT OF FATE

This turns out to be the secret key phrase needed to activate the diary in order to change the tracks of fate, which Ringo uses at the end of the show in order to prevent another train attack from succeeding.

It’s probably not too hard to piece together what the fruit of fate is after all of this. In a sense, this phrase is just a repeat of Mawaru Penguindrum, just as an actual sentence with a bit more coherence.

I’ll bear your burdens and you’ll bear mine, and in doing so, let us forever be connected.

Wow, finally expunged these thoughts from my brain. Maybe somewhere in me there's still something left for a discussion on how the show uses repeated imagery and visual metaphor to communicate information and associations to the viewer that are vital to actually understanding what's going on because it's a narrative that half exists a non-literal thematic space but for now:

Thanks for reading!

#mawaru penguindrum #ikuhara #mpd #finally committed to writing this after dying from the booster side effects #i'm sure there might be translation differences from the original japanese but I think my logic will still hold

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newbieecosocalistboy · 2 months ago

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The new phenomenon of Young Men commenting "Fatherless behavior" and its deeply harmful roots in already well established Misogyny in Patriarchy:

Comments like "Fatherless behavior" under harmless videos of women and girls enjoying hobbies, expressing themselves, or simply existing—reflects the harmful impact of reactionary misogyny, "alpha male" ideologies, and incel/Redpill worldviews. These movements perpetuate a toxic framework that dehumanizes women and polices their behavior according to regressive gender norms. Below is a breakdown of the issue and its implications.

1. The Root of the Problem: Misogyny and Reactionary Ideologies

Incel and Redpill Ideologies: These movements claim to expose "truths" about gender, portraying women as objects to be controlled and evaluated, often through shallow metrics like appearance, modesty, or behavior. In these spaces, women's hobbies, creativity, or autonomy—such as gaming or cosplay—are mocked or policed as signs of rebellion against male dominance.

Alpha Coaches like Andrew Tate: Figures like Andrew Tate popularize the belief that women who enjoy "male" hobbies (e.g., gaming) or engage in expressive activities (e.g., cosplay) are acting out due to a lack of proper "male control." This mindset underpins comments like "Fatherless behavior," framing women’s joy as improper without a male's "stern hand."

Religious and Conservative Patriarchy: This ideology blames fathers for failing to "discipline" daughters who express themselves creatively or engage in public-facing hobbies. It promotes the idea that women must adhere to modesty, quietness, and submissiveness, invalidating pursuits like cosplay or gaming, particularly if they involve any degree of visible skin.

2. The "Fatherless Behavior" Insult

Underlying Assumption: The phrase "Fatherless behavior" implies that women and girls pursuing hobbies like cosplay or gaming, or dressing in ways deemed "immodest" (even if entirely normal within the context of the activity), lack male guidance to keep them "in line." It reduces their self-expression to a supposed failure of patriarchal control.

Targeting Visible Skin: The criticism often intensifies when women show even minimal skin in cosplay, despite such designs being common for both genders in many fantasy, anime, and gaming genres. Men portraying shirtless or hyper-muscular characters are typically praised, while women are accused of seeking attention or behaving inappropriately.

Double Standards: Men enjoying gaming, cosplaying, or self-expression face no comparable judgment. For instance, a man dressing as a heroic, scantily clad character is celebrated, while a woman in a similar outfit is condemned.

3. Emotional Impact on Women and Girls

Invalidation of Hobbies: Women in gaming communities or cosplay are often accused of "seeking attention" or "trying too hard," as if their interests are inherently performative rather than genuine. This erodes the joy of participating in these hobbies.

Policing of Bodies: In cosplay, women are disproportionately criticized for costumes that align with canonical designs or popular aesthetics, leading to shame around their bodies. Men rarely face equivalent scrutiny for costumes that show off their physiques.

Denial of Fun and Autonomy: Women playing video games, sharing clips, or streaming are accused of being "fake gamers" or "trying to impress men," stripping them of the right to enjoy gaming for its own sake. Similarly, women cosplaying popular characters are met with skepticism or outright hostility, as if their enjoyment requires external validation.

Emotional Exhaustion: Facing constant criticism for harmless behavior—like dressing as a favorite character, gaming, or posting lighthearted videos—can cause women to feel unwelcome, unsafe, and unmotivated to continue participating in these hobbies.

4. Societal Implications

Normalization of Harassment: Comments like "Fatherless behavior" create a toxic culture where women and girls expect criticism or harassment as the price of participating in public-facing hobbies. Over time, this drives women out of gaming, cosplay, and similar communities.

Enforcement of Double Standards: By perpetuating the idea that women must meet stricter behavioral and aesthetic standards, these ideologies reinforce gender inequality. Women are discouraged from engaging in activities deemed "male-dominated," narrowing their opportunities and potential.

Silencing Creativity and Joy: Young girls interested in cosplay, gaming, or other hobbies often withdraw due to fear of being sexualized, mocked, or harassed. This stifles their personal growth and self-expression, impacting their confidence and long-term development.

Encouragement of Toxic Male Behavior: These movements validate and reward men who degrade women online, creating environments hostile not only to women but to any form of inclusivity or equality.

5. Counter-Arguments to Misogynistic Narratives

Women Are Autonomous Beings: Women’s enjoyment of hobbies like cosplay or gaming is a reflection of their individuality, not a failure of male control. Policing their behavior reduces them to objects rather than recognizing them as full human beings.

Rejecting the Policing of Visible Skin: Cosplay often reflects existing character designs from games, comics, or anime. Criticizing women for accurately representing characters with revealing costumes ignores the creative and artistic skill involved in cosplay. The same criticism is rarely leveled at men.

Gaming Is for Everyone: The idea that gaming is inherently "male" is outdated and exclusionary. Women and girls enjoy gaming for the same reasons men do: challenge, storytelling, community, and fun.

Double Standards in Attention-Seeking: Men engage in cosplay or gaming for various reasons, including self-expression and visibility, without being accused of "seeking attention." Women deserve the same freedom without judgment or harassment.

6. Broader Harm to Women and Girls

Erosion of Safe Spaces: Communities like gaming or cosplay become unsafe for women when misogynistic ideologies dominate, leading to fewer women participating in these spaces and perpetuating male-dominated cultures.

Stunted Personal Development: Young girls internalizing this negativity may avoid exploring interests like gaming or cosplay, fearing judgment or harassment. This limits their opportunities to build skills, networks, and confidence.

Societal Regressiveness: The resurgence of traditional gender norms as a response to women’s growing independence harms everyone by reinforcing outdated stereotypes that limit both women and men.

Perpetuation of Misogyny Across Generations: When young boys see such comments normalized, they may adopt these harmful views, perpetuating cycles of sexism and discrimination.

7. How to Push Back Against This Harm

Challenge Sexism in Communities: Call out comments like "Fatherless behavior" as misogynistic and baseless. Explain how they undermine women’s autonomy and perpetuate double standards.

Support Women in Gaming and Cosplay: Amplify women’s voices and achievements in these spaces. Encourage their participation and highlight the skill, creativity, and passion they bring to these hobbies.

Educate About Gender Equity: Promote awareness about the harm caused by these ideologies and the value of inclusivity in all spaces, from gaming to cosplay.

Celebrate Women’s Contributions: Share examples of women thriving in gaming, cosplay, and other male-dominated areas to inspire and validate others.

Conclusion

The rise of misogynistic ideologies from incel culture, Redpill rhetoric, and figures like Andrew Tate has directly contributed to toxic commentary targeting women enjoying harmless hobbies like gaming or cosplay. Insults like "Fatherless behavior" not only perpetuate double standards but actively harm women and girls by invalidating their interests, undermining their autonomy, and creating hostile environments. Combating this requires collective effort to educate, advocate, and celebrate women’s rights to express themselves freely without fear of judgment or harassment.

#fuck the patriarchy #radfemblr #radical feminism #radikalfeminismus #anti incel #manosphere #Anti redpill #radfeminism #radfemally #Anti Manosphere

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residences-of-the-darkforest · 3 months ago

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Dark Forest Residences: Flightfur & Lilybeak

Flightfur

Aliases / Nicknames: Love

Gender: she-cat

Sexuality: pansexual

Family: unnamed mother, unnamed father, Lilybeak (daughter), Birchkit, Sunkit (sons), Tadpoleclaw (mate, formerly)

Other Relations: unnamed mentor, unnamed apprentice, Softbark (mother-in-law)

Clan: ThunderClan

Rank: warrior

Characteristics: loves racing, good reflexes, tends to get over emotional (positively and negatively)

Murder Motive: protect her daughter

Number of Victims: 1

Number of Murders: 1

Murder Method: clawing

Known Victims: Tadpoleclaw

Victim Profile: her former mate, her daughter’s attacker

Cause of Death: throat ripped out, murdered

Cautionary Tale: ??

Story:

She was on her own the moment she became expecting.

She was delighted at first, until she shared the news with her mate and saw his face fall.

She had lost one kit the day that they were born, and her remaining son was incredibly sick, requiring attention at all times. Flightfur wasn't able to sleep for days, her worry wouldn't let her.

Her son--Birchkit--didn't live past more than a moon.

Flightfur shrank into her grief, becoming bitter and angry. Bitter at the world for stealing her children, angry at her so-called 'mate' for never comforting her or visiting them before they died.

How dare he?

How dare he bow his head at the vigil? How dare he give a speech about his poor dead children, who he never bothered to see?

All the moons Flightfur spent exhausted, ungroomed, on the verge of a breakdown!

All the times she went to him, begging for help, and he came up with excuses or promised to help 'later,' but never would.

All the worries she expressed, wishing that he would just come see his kits before it was too late, to just be with her again.

How dare he be pretending to feel the pain that was tearing Flightfur up inside?

It ate her up completely--the rage, the sorrow, the grief. It left her a shell of her former self, living day by day staring into space.

While she suffered in her misery, Tadpoleclaw moved on just fine not even a moon after his kits were in the ground.

After....how long? Moons...Years? Her daughter, her last surviving kit, was an adult now. She was walking in the forest alone, when she spotted Tadpoleclaw and Lilybeak writhing on the ground. At first, she thought that they were training, when the spray of blood hit her.

In a flash, she realized that her daughter was in danger. In that same flash, her instinct kicked in and she sprang forward, ripping Tadpoleclaw from her baby and tearing at him with her claws, screaming her hatred as she tore and tore and tore, unleashing all her hatred for him and all that he's put her through.

His face and chest were unrecognizable, marred completely by long red, ragged lines and pools of blood. When her ears stopped ringing, she heard voices behind her and sprung around to face a shocked patrol.

She tried to explain, stammering, but her heart was beating so fast and she still wasn't sure what had happened, it was all a blur...

She looked to her daughter for help. She could tell them what was going on.

Her daughter kicked that bird skull that she's been fascinated by since kithood, before telling everyone that Flightfur attacked Tadpoleclaw unprovoked.

Flightfur didn't have any time to speak a word before Tadpoleclaw's new mate leaped from the crowd and bit into her throat.

Lilybeak

Aliases / Nicknames: Weirdo, Lilyfreak, Skull-lover, Dungpelt, other various insults

Gender: she-cat, agender-leaning (she/they)

Sexuality: asexual, panromantic

Family: Finchfur (mother), Tadpoleclaw (father), Birchkit, Sunkit (brothers), Softbark (grandmother)

Other Relations: unnamed mentor

Clan: ThunderClan

Rank: warrior

Characteristics: essentially “blind” to societal norms, loves the smell of rot, loves birds, loves her skull, obsessive of her skull, always lets her skull decide her fate

Murder Motive: the skull said “negative”

Number of Victims: 6

Number of Murders: 6

Murder Method: neglecting help, lying

Known Victims: Tadpoleclaw, Finchfur, several unnamed Clanmates

Victim Profile: her father, her mother, cats in danger

Cause of Death: eye puncture, murdered

Cautionary Tale: ??

Story:

Her father was never really in the picture--it wasn't until she became an apprentice that Lilybeak even knew which warrior was him.

Her mother...Well, she was in the nursery with her, but that's as far as their interactions went, not including formal greetings or patrols. Lilybeak didn't blame her. She had lost one kit the day they were born, and Lilybeak's remaining littermate was incredibly sick, requiring attention at all times.

He didn't live past more than a moon, but instead of turning her attention to her last surviving kit, she shrank into her grief, becoming bitter and angry.

That was okay. Lilykit had her grandmother. Softbark taught Lilykit to wean, to walk, and every other important thing a young cat must know. She also taught her granddaughter special skills, like how to perfectly pluck a bird of its feathers or clean the meat completely off the bones so that nothing is wasted.

Lilykit was so proud of herself when she had finished her first--successful--clean of a crow. Softbark pulled the skull from the rest of the body and passed it to her, encouraging her to always look at it in a time of need or confusion.

She had meant for Lilykit to remember her success, but the kit took it literal.

That skull was everything to her, moreso when her grandmother passed.

Lilykit could never be sure if her mother ever heard her questions, or if she just didn't care enough to provide answers.

But that skull...She could always be sure that it was there. It would always help her, guide her.

It was simple enough. When she was plagued by a question or choice, she would gently kick the skull. If the mouth laid open, it was affirmation of the positive. If it closed, negative.

When the only guiding figure in your life is the skull of a long-dead animal, you're bound to be off when it comes to...societal norms and thought processes.

When a warrior had tried to take her skull away, thinking it junk, she had wailed and bit onto his tail so hard, she hit bone.

Her peers teased her for it, calling it gross and weird and pretending to gag at the smell when she curled up beside it while asleep.

They tried to take it from her one day as a joke...Lilypaw had to spend half a moon's worth cleaning the elders from ticks, but at least she got her point across. No one ever bothered her about her skull again. Weird glances, sure. Whispers, whatever. Lilybeak didn't care.

While others voiced their disdain of her new name, Lilybeak was delighted! Lilybeak, just like her friend!

Then that warrior...her father? Yes, she remembered, her father asked to go on a walk. When the skull confirmed that she should go, she did so, holding it delicately in her jaws.

Tadpoleclaw tried to act understanding and patient at first as he attempted to explain how strange Lilybeak's obsession was, but when Lilybeak refused to listen, he became frustrated. He asked her why she had to be so weird, doesn't she know they whisper about him too, as her father? What cats think of him to have her as a daughter?

He shouted at her to get rid of the skull or he would. Lilybeak told him that she had to ask it first. That enraged Tadpoleclaw and he tore it out of her jaws, throwing it to the ground. Then he placed a paw on it, pressing down..

Lilybeak shrieked and shoved him off, and they fell into a whirlwind of tooth and claw.

Before Lilybeak knew it, Flightfur had killed Tadpoleclaw, and a patrol was demanding what was going on. Flightfur looked at Lilybeak pleadingly, so Lilybeak gently kicked her skull to see what she should do.

It was closed. Negative. She couldn't go forward with telling the truth. So she raised her chin and announced her mother's crime.

It would only be the first time the skull had lead to someone's death.

Three times, a Clanmate was in danger--hanging from a broken branch, trapped on icy water, and faced against a badger. All three times, those Clanmates died because when faced with the choice to help or not, the answer was negative.

Not always. Sometimes it was positive, and she sprang into action and saved the cats in danger.

Whether she saved someone or didn’t had no affect on Lilybeak’s conscience. She was merely following what she was being told—that skull was for her, no one else. It was in her best interest to follow everything it told her.

If she didn’t help someone, it was probably because she would only be putting herself in danger. If she did, it meant she was safe enough to do so.

If she had told the truth about Tadpoleclaw’s death, maybe she would have been blamed as well, instead of treated as the lucky survivor of Flightfur’s rampage.

Then Lilybeak took her skull into battle. It would be hard to fight and worry tugged at her, but she needed it with her always.

Then she saw a Clanmate getting attacked by two opposing warriors. She kicked the beak…negative. She turned away.

But she hadn’t been without audience. That cat’s father had seen her neglect. He was farther and couldn’t help in time, but Lilybeak could have easily stepped in if not so obsessed with that weird beak.

Consumed by rage and grief, he snuck over to her nest that night. She slept a tail-length away from everyone else, the only one unbothered by that smell.

He picked up the skull that she loved so much, and slammed it down.

Additional Information:

—Was initially just gonna be Lilybeak, but I started writing and realized the mom has a strong motive. Flight was chosen because did her similar fur pattern.

—Lilybeak was suggested by @meowstival and @colonies-of-the-shells-and-fish !

—Because she was killed by the beak as well as buried with it (out of respect for her strange love), she has it with her in the Dark Forest.

—Both Tadpole and the dad that killed Lily are in StarClan.

—The dad slammed the skull down blindly, not really sure where he was going because cats aren’t really used to stabbing with items in their mouths. He ended up puncturing Lily’s eye, deep enough to kill her!

#Long post #Profile #resident profile #Resident #Dark forest oc #dark forest warrior #Murder #dark forest resident #Dark forest profile #dark resident #Dark profile #Place of No stars oc #Lilybeak #Finchfur

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videostarblogs · 7 months ago

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5. yamanba gyaru

yamanba gyaru is a bold and extreme substyle of the gyaru fashion movement that originated in Japan in the late 1990s and early 2000s. it is characterized by its striking and unconventional appearance, which challenges traditional beauty norms. here's the details breakdown of yamanba gyaru fashion!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

yamanba gyaru evolved from the earlier gyaru substyles, particularly ganguro, which emphaszied tanned, bleached hair, and heavy makeup. the term yamanba refers to a mythical mountain witch in Japanese folklore, highlighting the wild and exaggerated nature of the style. this substyle emerged as a rebellion against traditional Japanese beauty standards and societal expectations, embracing a more radical and expressive and societal expectations, embracing a more radical and expressive form of self identity. it gained popularity among Japanese youth who sought to stand out and make a bold statement.

key motifs

deep tan and white makeup: one of the most distinctive features of yamanba gyaru is the deep, artificial tan combined with white makeup accents/ white eyeshadow, white eyeliner, and white lipstick or concealer are used to create a dramatic contrast against the tanned makeup.

bleached or colored hair: hair is typically bleaches to a platinum blonde or dyed in bright, unconventional colors like neon pink, blue, or purple. hairstyles are often voluminous and styled in waves or curls.

bold and colorful makeup: besides the white accents, yamanba gyaru makeup includes heavy use of colorful eyeshadows, dramatic false eyelashes, and thick eyeliner.

layered and flashy clothing: the clothing in yamanba gyaru fashion is eclectic and vibrant. it often includes layered outfits with bold patterns, neon colors, and flashy accessories like large hair clips, beads, and chunky jewelry.

platform shoes: oversized platform shoes and boots are a staple in yamanba gyaru fashion, adding to the exaggerated and towerlinh appearance

music

the yamanba gyaru aesthetic is often associated with energetic and rebellious music genres such as j-pop, eurobeat, and para para music. these genres complement the lively and bold nature of the fashion

here are some artists to listen too

Kiryu

BiS (Brand-new Idols of Succession)

GANG PARADE

PassCode

SCANDAL

Yoyoka

The GazettE

Dadaroma

DOLL$BOXR

X JAPAN

movies

yamanba gyaru fashion hasn't been prominently featured in mainstream movies, but it aligns with the subverse and countercultural themes found in certian Japanese films and media that explore youth rebellion and identity. documentaries and features on Japanese street fashion often showcase yamanba gyaru as part of the broader gyaru subculture

here are movies I suggest

Kamikaze Girls (2004)

Love Exposure (2008)

Tokyo Gore Police (2008)

Female Prisoner 701: Scorpion (1972)

Tokyo Tribe (2014)

Suicide Circle (2002)

Death Powder (1986)

Tokyo Vampire Hotel (2017)

book and other media

manga and anime: some manga and anime feature characters inspired by gyaru substyles, including yamanba. titles like gals! by mihona fuiji provide a glimpse into the gyaru lifestyles and fashion.

magazines: magazines such as egg have historically featured yamanba gyaru, providing fashion tips, makeup tutorials, and showcasing street snaps of those embarrassing the style.

social media and online communities: platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and various fashion blogs have become essential for yamanba gyaru enthusiasts to share their looks, connect with like minded individuals, and keep the subculture alive. online communities and forums dedicated to gyaru fashion also play a significant role in fostering the yamanba gyaru community.

moodboards

outfit inspo

overall, yamanba gyaru is a radical and expressive fashion subculture that embraces bold colors, exaggerated makeup, and a rebellious spirit. it challenges conventional beauty standards and celebrates individuality and creativity.

make sure to like, reblog if you want and follow my blog for more fashion breakdowns like this!!! my requests are open aswell:)))

videostar signing off...............

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