#Fantasy and Mythology

[mirtadraws]

The prompt at work was "mermaid" so of course I drew a cursed shrunken Dunkleosteusmaid ... Dunkleman ... .

[omegaphilosophia]

The Philosophy of Metal

The philosophy of metal, particularly heavy metal music, involves exploring the genre's themes, cultural impact, and the ways it reflects and shapes human experiences. Metal is known for its distinctive sound, often characterized by loud, distorted guitars, powerful drumming, and aggressive vocals. It has a rich cultural and philosophical dimension that resonates with themes of rebellion, empowerment, and existential reflection.

Key Themes in the Philosophy of Metal:

Rebellion and Individualism:

Counter-Cultural Stance: Metal often positions itself as a form of rebellion against mainstream societal norms and conventions. This rebellious spirit is reflected in its lyrics, aesthetics, and attitudes, challenging the status quo and embracing a more defiant stance.

Empowerment and Self-Expression: Metal provides a platform for individual expression and empowerment. It encourages listeners and musicians to embrace their individuality, reject conformity, and assert their personal identity.

Darkness and Morbidity:

Exploration of Dark Themes: Metal frequently explores dark and morbid themes, including death, the occult, and existential despair. This focus on darker aspects of human experience allows for an exploration of profound and often uncomfortable subjects.

Catharsis and Understanding: By confronting these themes, metal can offer a form of catharsis and a way to process complex emotions. It provides a space for exploring fears, anxieties, and existential questions in a controlled and artistic manner.

Power and Strength:

Musical Intensity: The intense and powerful nature of metal music reflects a philosophy of strength and resilience. The genre's aggressive sound and energetic performances embody a sense of power and determination.

Personal Empowerment: Metal often promotes themes of personal strength and overcoming adversity. Lyrics and music can inspire listeners to face their challenges with courage and conviction.

Fantasy and Mythology:

Imagery and Themes: Metal frequently incorporates elements of fantasy, mythology, and epic storytelling. This use of grandiose and imaginative themes allows for the exploration of heroic narratives, mythic struggles, and otherworldly concepts.

Escape and Imagination: The fantasy aspects of metal provide an escape from everyday reality, allowing both musicians and listeners to explore alternative worlds and imaginative scenarios.

Existentialism and Nihilism:

Existential Reflection: Metal often grapples with existential themes, such as the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent or chaotic universe. It reflects on the human condition, questioning the nature of existence and the role of individual agency.

Nihilistic Views: Some metal subgenres embrace nihilistic philosophies, questioning the value of traditional beliefs and structures. This nihilism can be expressed through themes of meaninglessness and the rejection of conventional moral frameworks.

Cultural Identity and Community:

Metal Subculture: Metal has a distinct subculture that values its own codes of conduct, aesthetics, and community. This subculture fosters a sense of belonging and identity among its members, creating a supportive environment for like-minded individuals.

Global Influence: Metal's impact extends beyond its origins, influencing and integrating with various cultures around the world. It reflects a global exchange of ideas and styles, contributing to a diverse and dynamic musical landscape.

Artistic and Musical Innovation:

Experimentation and Complexity: Metal is known for its musical complexity and innovation, with many subgenres incorporating intricate arrangements, technical skill, and experimental elements. This focus on musical innovation reflects a philosophical commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.

Genre Diversity: Metal encompasses a wide range of subgenres, each with its own philosophical and aesthetic values. From traditional heavy metal to black metal, death metal, and beyond, the genre's diversity reflects a broad spectrum of artistic expression and thematic exploration.

Authenticity and Integrity:

Commitment to Artistic Vision: Metal often values authenticity and integrity, with musicians and fans alike emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision and personal values. This commitment to authenticity is central to the genre's identity.

Resistance to Commercialization: Many metal artists resist mainstream commercial pressures, prioritizing artistic expression over commercial success. This resistance reinforces the genre's rebellious and independent spirit.

Social Critique and Commentary:

Addressing Social Issues: Metal frequently addresses social and political issues, including themes of injustice, corruption, and oppression. Through its lyrics and imagery, metal offers a form of critique and commentary on societal problems.

Voice for the Marginalized: Metal often serves as a voice for marginalized or disaffected groups, providing a platform for expressing dissatisfaction and advocating for change.

The Philosophy of Aggression:

Expression of Aggression: Metal's aggressive sound and themes reflect a philosophical exploration of aggression and conflict. This aggression can be both a form of artistic expression and a way of confronting and processing inner and outer conflicts.

Controlled Aggression: The genre allows for the controlled expression of aggression, offering a safe outlet for exploring intense emotions and experiences.

The philosophy of metal encompasses a diverse range of themes and values, from rebellion and individualism to existential reflection and cultural identity. Metal provides a unique lens through which to explore and express complex emotions, societal critiques, and artistic innovation. Its emphasis on power, authenticity, and the exploration of dark and fantastical themes contributes to its distinct and influential position in the world of music and culture.

[ladyprimavera]

Meet the cast

~Captiva Alex Corrin

[miakorz]

[ink-devourer]

So an idea I had was that the jellyfish merfolk lived on top of their biggest predator, the sea turtles would have naturally growing coral reefs on top of it so the jellyfish species used it to their advantage. They would even take it a step further and use old turtle shell bits to make their clothes look like the respective turtle. They would have a mutual relationship with the turtle and even give them a name based on attributes. This turtle is named Aurora nebulis, this turtle is where an oc named Cyndī lives and thrives in.

[purplenby]

— behemoth —

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satisfied with how this came out.

[cherriielle]

daphne's blessing 🌿

[bashieashie]

I just think medieval snail ladies are neat.

[faithschaffer]

-Medusa-

I've had this sitting around as a sketch for awhile, finally had time to finish it! Hoping to do more mythology illustration this year.

[dewinter]

Excalibur (1981) dir.: John Boorman

[mirtadraws]

PoV: you are a mouse or perhaps a vole

[calico-heart]

I know unicorns in modern media are kind of relegated to cutsie, MLP, rainbow plastic toys, or shitting rainbows, 'lets go to candy mountain' but man. I WISH more fantasy media would put them in unironically. There is so much symbolic and narrative potential in a creature that is, depending on your mythology:

A guardian of wild spaces, the embodiment of nature untouched by mankind's industry and greed. Fewer and farther between.

The ideal of "Purity" made manifest, elusive and powerful and hunted for fruitlessly by many a person. To kill. To actually kill. Living symbol of the oh-so-coveted Purity, not treated as a sacred thing to protect, or even predated for food to survive off, but a trophy for knights and lords to boast about.

So absolutely fierce and deadly that no one smart dared to fight it fairly. A gentle maiden had to betray it into resting in her lap so that a man could spear it while its guard was down.

Able to heal any wound no matter how severe - it promised miracles, if you could find one.

A creature who's magic vanished if it was captured or killed. In trying to take control of it, you destroyed it. Some things can only be given by free will, and no amount of personal desire or brute force can change that.

[ladyprimavera]

Little animation to promote my webcomic, you can read it on Webtoons 🧡

[tismoonie]

I hope y’all like greek mythology here…

Anyone else obsessed with EPIC??

[fox-graves]

The Bull of Minos wishes for a kinder myth where he can be free

_

Needle felt Minotaur, handmade by me. Available for purchase in source link.

[periodcostumefantasylover]

Guinevere's wedding dress and chainmail veil in Excalibur 1981