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collisiondiscourse · 4 years ago

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on the wonder duo (part 1)

(BNHA Analysis Post Ahead! This isn’t explicitly romantic, but it is an analysis of the relationship between the two most popular characters in BNHA--Katsuki Bakugou and Izuku Midoriya. Split into two posts because I realized that this was gonna be long as HELL)

yall ever think about the fact that the wonder duo is perfectly set up in so that bakugou and deku together are the better version of all might?

bc like. ive been thinking.

everyone knows the win to save and save to win parallel. How they are supposedly two halves of a whole perfect hero (which, previously, was defined as all might)

but ever since bakugou and deku started working as one—growing together to win AND save and continuously reminding each other that they shouldnt try to do things alone, ive realized that its BECAUSE theres two of them that they surpass all might. its not a case of deku and bakugou both being 50% of an ideal hero, but rather i think that they are 100% of what all might SHOULD HAVE BEEN from the very beginning.

as early as the AM v AFO battle in kamino, we see the effects of all mights flawed existence. the fact that he, the greatest and supposedly infallible symbol of peace, was destroyed—society had begun to collapse. there was suddenly no pillar to hold people together and the impacts were so severe that even in the latest chapters of mha it keeps on getting worse. the truth is, all mights biggest mistake was the burden he placed on his own shoulders

with bakugou and deku... its different.

its different for them because down to their attributions, they seem like two halves of a whole person.

i think that the wonder duo are going to surpass all might because of the fact that they work together.

@bakugoukatsuki-rising @svpercraigus @tybee @isaustraliaathing

(batshit crazy and conspiratorial essay under the cut !)

1. Complementary Colors

I’d like to first preface literally everything I say by the fact that I am not an expert analyzer or literary major in any way. I am literally just some random fan on the internet who has wayyy too much time and looks wayyy too deep into things, but here we go!

A common thing we see when we talk about bakugou and deku is the way they are... sort of an inverse of one another.

Down to the design of their features and the way they move, Deku is the obviously softer of the two. There’s an intentional contrast between the two of them, in the way that Deku’s drawn with round shapes and curvy hair and the way Bakugou is literally all spikes and half-mast eyes and rough muscles. Bakugou’s movements too are languid and showy, with the way he leans when he walks and splays his legs and kicks open doors. Katsuki, in a casual sense, is loud and dramatic.

Deku on the other hand s finicky. He jitters when he walks and he’s often fidgeting and mumbling. Comparatively, the aura he radiates is energetic and frenzied, even self-conscious to a point unlike Bakugou’s calm and confident movements.

the point is, there’s a clear difference in how either of them are designed and what exactly they are supposed to represent. They utterly complement each other down to the way they behave and even their main colors (red-orange and blue-green) being literal complementary colors.

Now, moving to my more ungrounded points, this is quite a bit of a stretch so I’ll try as much as possible to make sense of these with hyperlinked sources because. yeah.

Down to their names, I think Deku and Bakugou both symbolize something deeper. I think that the way Hori expresses characters and what they’re meant to do is something that we have to pay close attention to when we talk about the Wonder Duo’s rise to success.

Izuku Midoriya (緑谷出久), as some of us may know, does have an interesting meaning when broken up. According to a lovely fan translation of his name, ‘Izuku’--while not an actual name used commonly in real life--means to ‘Come out’ or ‘Long time’. ‘Midoriya’ on the other hand means (Midori) ‘Green’ and (ya) ‘valley’. The translator further pointed out that his first name ‘Izuku’ could be a reference to him being the first legendary hero to come out of the long-running All Might Era. (or, if you’ve been reading @/bakugoukatsuki-rising’s posts, the first significant anime protag in a long while to come out as queer, ppfft)

but that isn’t my focus right now.

We know that Hori LOVES telling stories with names, and more often than not in the BNHA universe, names alone tell us a lot of things about the characters. When referring to Izuku’s last name, Midoriya, it’s important I think to step back and realize that hey, maybe there’s something more to Green Valley than just the fact that his motif is all green.

After searching for a lil on the specifics of green valley, I’ve found out that across many cultures, the colour green and valleys in general tend to represent life. From dream analysts, to Christianity, and even old Taoist teachings, valleys are seen as areas of fertility and escape. They are seen as safe havens and often escapes for people to come to after running away from bad circumstances.

(Sound familiar?)

Deku, in essence represents life and peace. He represents being the “salvation” that the world in BNHA needed. To me, it sounds like Horikoshi is trying to say that he is the long-awaited hero in the sense. The one that people can feel will create a society that feels safe for everyone after years of All Might just saving people from themselves as a band-aid solution.

On the other hand, we have Katsuki Bakugou (爆豪勝己), who’s name we commonly know means (Katsuki) Winner and (Bakugou) Explosion Master. He is essentially, the champion. The power. His name means success and power and all the things that make up winning.

When putting them side by side, it then becomes increasingly... interesting to me how their names almost perfectly slot into All Might’s save to win and win to save mantra, and how they are both quintessential parts to what made All Might as a hero.

2. Hero Too!

Now, I’m not even gonna really TOUCH much of what happens in canon. If you want me to do a step by step breakdown of their arcs in regards to the plot of manga and anime, feel free to send me a gratuitous ko-fi tip so I can pay for the headache I get after trying to organize my thoughts into word vomit.

What I WILL talk about on the other hand, is the subtle shift both of them slowly have in regards to how they look. Bakugou and Deku, while growing up, seem to have MANY many parallels--but before I elaborate on all of that, I wanna talk about something else.

Detour: Deku’s Red Shoes

We all know the iconic symbol being Deku’s red shoes. For all his life, save for some outfits like his hero one, we see Deku more often than not wearing his signature red sneakers which have become a running joke in fandom.

But the funny thing is, in Japan, red shoes seem to have an interesting connotation.

In 1922, a popular Japanese nursery rhyme was written, called “Red Shoes”. The interesting part to me about this song was the symbolism that, in my tiny pea-sized brain, I could connect to the story of BNHA.

The story goes that there was a little girl with red shoes named ‘Kimi’. She was from Shizuoka prefecture (which, if you didn’t know, is most likely where Musutafu supposedly is) and was raised by a single mother. When she was young, her mother had to entrust her with a foreigner under the impression that they would give her a better life in America. The stranger is a man named Charles Hewitt (who was described to have blue eyes) and supposedly took her away.

The singer of the song (supposedly the mother, but some argue it was written from the perspective of a childhood friend) believes that Kimi is happy and living a better life away from them, when the reality of the situation was much worse. The young girl with red shoes in actuality had Tuberculosis, and thus the foreigner whom she was entrusted to had left her to fend for herself and eventually left her to go to America while she died alone and orphaned.

“When I see red shoes, I think of her.”

A very interesting story with very interesting implications indeed.

Anyway, moving on to the more... “nuanced” and connected parts of this section, I have every reason to believe that Bakugou and Deku were simply MEANT to be working together down to how they dress. Now, I’d like to discuss their hero costumes.

At the start of their series, using these godawful pics for reference, it’s clear to see that neither of them seem alike in any way--reflecting the dissonance in their relationship at that point in canon.

ough. deku why. (yes we know why its because you love your mom you stupid little bunny <3)

Anyway, we see an immediate gap in how the two of them are. Deku’s first costume is one that reflects how he treated his dream of being a hero. He was still in that childlike idolization phase, the one where his dreams and aspirations were hinged on pure feelings and inspiration from All Might. Katsuki on the other hand was a lot more tactical--professional to an extent. The gap between their respective development with their quirks is something that is clearly felt in every fashion decision they’d made.

(Notice how Deku’s green is a lot brighter and less like the green accents Katsuki has all over his costume.)

As time progressed however... their costumes changed. The colors, the silhouettes, the practical functions, most things.

(Deku’s Gamma Costume and Bakugou’s Winter Costume used respectively)

we begin to notice a few similarities.

As the show goes on and we see more evolutions of their costumes, it almost seems like they begin to look like a matching pair. Deku’s green grows darker and almost teal in nature, while Bakugou’s orange is veering towards red territory. This is important to note because red-orange and blue-green as I said earlier were complementary colors as compared to simply orange and green. The minute shift is something I really wasn’t quite sure was intentional, but something I find interesting to pick up nonetheless as the colors they used to accent their costumes begin to match up.

Secondly, I think and important thing to note is silhouettes. The way that both Bakugou and Deku’s costumes are designed follow a lot of parallels that typically we don’t see with the rest of 1-A. For one, they both have a combination of tight long-sleeved tops with a bulkier set of bottoms. They also share the use of utility belts and metal pieces typically worn around their necks. Deku has his bunny-eared hood that mimics All Might’s hair, while Bakugou has his orange and black explosion ear-pieces that mimic his own quirk.

i don’t think any other people in class 1-A match each other as subtly yet strongly as these two. Uraraka and Deku and Bakugou and Kirishima do come close however.

“But Codi, you fucking knob!” I hear you plea. “This is such a reach and tells us practically NOTHING!” And yes, I’m inclined to agree with you! You’d be sort of right in the idea that this is a reach. Maybe I am looking too much into this, and maybe it really isn’t that deep--but I do think that them subconsciously matching outfits means something quite brilliant.

In the way that their costumes are designed, each aspect of either outfits have a very logical explanation. The changes were strategic and made with their fighting styles vividly in mind, so what that tells me is that BECAUSE these costumes are so complementary or similar in nature (Bakugou’s reinforcing his arms while Deku reinforces his legs), these two are implicitly showing the audience that their combat styles are complementary as well.

The evolution of their design choices and similarities tell us that even unknowingly, their minds line up in strategy on the battlefield--a clear exhibit for why they would be INCREDIBLY POWERFUL as a Hero Duo to begin with.

When I look at their hero costumes side by side, I see a mirror. I see the way that these two are reflections of each other and are strong where the other isn’t. The point I see in BNHA repeatedly is that EVERYONE HAS A WEAKNESS. Nothing is infallible, regardless of how hard you train or how powerful your quirk is. Everyone will always have a weakness, but the significant difference I see when fandom discusses the future of Pro-Hero Society is that the new generation is finally raising itself to be RELIANT on each other.

Observing their fighting styles and the simple use of their quirks, its obvious that they are indeed two parts of a whole hero. Bakugou, who’s quirk emphasized his arms and hands and the power that comes from it, while Deku who’s quirk now emphasizes his legs and lower body and the way he’s always running to save people.

IN CONCLUSION:

As they become heroes, it is easy to assume that if nothing else, Bakugou and Deku will cover each other’s weak spots (especially when you consider the way Deku probably won’t be able to keep using his arms with the way both the anime and manga are going...) (also chapter 285, anyone?)

Part Two: Interactions, OfA

kofi || commission details

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kaypeace21 · 4 years ago

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Coincidences? (Or foreshadowing of romantic endings?)

color me delusion over “ pointing out meaningless coincidences” but I still can’t get over the tv references most likely hinting about certain couples not being endgame.

Sorry, i just don’t think it’s a coincidence that El in s2 watches ‘all my children’ where she mimics Erica Kane who (in the ep she is watching) rushes into a relationship/elopement with a writer named Mike Roy, after a traumatic experience ( and the 2 end up not being endgame ). And the relationship gets messy and involves stalking .

Then in s3, Joyce watches Cheers (”rescue me”), and Jopper is compared to Dianne and fraiser. Diane says as joyce is listening to the tv “He had a couple of sips of Chianti tonight and asked me to marry him.” . At dinner Hopper orders a chianti while being stood up by Joyce. And Dianne and Frasier don’t marry and are also not endgame, cause Dianne stands him up at the alter. The other ep of cheers she watches in s3 (was in the Bob/joyce flashback) , and was called “ the rebound part 2″ in reference to Fraiser (aka Hopper) being the rebound. He’s just a rebound to Bob-why she’s thinking of Bob after Hopper asked her out.

Then Hopper in s3 also watches a magnum pi rerun from 1980- the 2 ep pilot is called “don’t eat the snow in Hawaii”. Magnum ( solving crime with his colorful Hawaiian shirts, similar to Hopper) kisses Alice who he has a history with. Alice promises to come back so they can be together (like Joyce with Enzo’s)-but it’s a lie and she never shows up again in the series and they aren’t endgame either . Also, when Joyce in ep 8 accepts the date- Hopper says he can’t do so at a certain time because he and El watch Miami Vice. The main cop in that also has a will-they wont they relationship (for several seasons with a female detective who was also a main character (like Joyce- aka ‘detective Byers’). AND THEY ALSO WERE NOT ENDGAME. ”Gina had an on-again, off-again relationship with Crockett, who was on the rebound after divorcing his wife, Caroline. The relationship faded out as Gina realized they mainly got together when one or both needed someone. Crockett was very protective of Gina, and had some jealousy when Gina was involved in relationships with other people …but was the first one to be there for her when things went wrong.”

-Also, In s2 Hopper angrily turns off cheers (Ep : ‘Sam turns the other cheek’). Causing jopper to (maybe?) also be compared to Sam and Diane from cheers too. Who have a long ‘will they won’t they’ relationship for more than 5 seasons (and used to date). And are also not endgame.The ep that plays in s3 that Joyce watches - has Diane say that Sam abuses her and mentions how they constantly argue (just like s3) but she says she can’t stay away because she loves him. A guy hearing this says “if you ever get tired of him and want a normal quiet life, think of me.” And this is also at the same time she’s reminiscing about being with such a guy- Bob (while watching the show). It pretty much reflects what Murray said about jopper. Hopper reminds her of a “bad relationship”(Lonnie)- but she can’t help wanting to hook up with Hopper. Despite “wanting to settle down with a nice guy (like bob).” Sam even was an alcoholic ex baseball player (Like Lonnie forcing Will to play/having beer cans everywhere) and Dianne having mental health issues (like Joyce).

Glen and Les Charles (just like the Duffers were brothers who created a show -cheers) . Their explanation about why Dianne and Sam didn’t end up together despite all the seasons of ‘will they won’t they ‘ echos jopper’s dynamic to a T . And I believe the Duffers are emulating Sam/Dianne and these fellow bro-writers.“Sam & Diane were so different. Their relationship (for comic and dramatic purposes) was fraught with conflict. Most of our time was spent devising new, funny, and fresh complications for them. Projecting forward, I believe they would driven each other insane had they gone off hand-in-hand – each with the best intentions, but ending with restraining orders. “

Pretty much. the moral of sam & diane’s story according to the Charles brothers was ‘there may be someone in your life you long for but deep down in your heart of hearts you know they’re wrong for you.’ And i think the duffers are using this inspiration from a fellow brother writing team (from the 80s) in regards to Jopper.

Then in regards to Lumax. Max and Lucas wear shirts referencing the couple from that 70s show. Max -is donna the feminist, tomboy, red-head, who doesn’t take sh*t. What’s interesting is lucas wears one of eric’s shirts from when they’re broken up and he’s fliritng with other girls- and earlier in the season Max called Lucas ‘Don juan’ (a name for a player- so it’s probably foreshadowing for s4.)

Max is also paralleled to 2 film characters Lucas doesn’t like- Michael meyers & Winston. Lucas: “ I specifically didn’t agree to Winston…nobody wants to be Winston, man.” Mike: “what’s wrong with Winston?”Lucas: He joined the team super late.Mike: yeah , but he’s still cool.Max being cool and joining the party late probably means she’s supposed to be Winston, right? it’s like how Lucas and dustin in s1 dissed el and said she was like Michael Myers. Cue max in her Michael Myers mask

- Also, the tv parallel of El (in s2) mimicking Erica Kane and pretending to be with a fictional Mike Roy. Also parallels Karen/ Billy. In s2, before she meets him she’s reading a romance book that has a guy that resembles Billy on the cover. The Duffers even mentioned they changed the cover to show the resemblance between Billy and the fictional book character. And we see Karen reading the sequel in s3 before Billy appears. Both El and Karen don’t/didn’t love Mike or Billy- they just projected onto them fictional characters they were infatuated with.Max also is said to do something similar- as the costume designers have Lucas dress up like “Max’s crush”- the karate kid (to impress her) and “be like him”.

I mean maybe I am “crazy” but this seems more like overt foreshadowing about these pairings not being endgame. I could be wrong but I really do believe the Duffers throw in details to foreshadow and allude to things occurring in the story. In a video (7:41) the Duffers mention how they had El in s2 watch Frankenstein on tv to indicate her emotionally state in the cabin feeling “cut off from the world” and “like a monster”. So I don’t think it’s a stretch-when they’ve already admitted what their character watches on tv pertains to something regarding that specific character . ( So why can’t what a character watches on tv (or read) also foreshadow them not ending up with a particular person?)

Then you have the Stalking elements...

Lumax is paralleled to mileven and jancy which have stalking elements, specifically stalking their future partner (lucas being called a ‘stalker’ for stalking Max, el spying on mike and saying “I make my own rules “ -ignoring his discomfort , Jonathan taking pics of nancy unbeknownst to her- although he apologized ) . And although, not as direct of a parallel as the first 3- Hopper spies on mileven kissing and eavesdrops on Joyce’s move. At the snowball, Lumax and mileven danced to ‘every breath you take’- a song about a bad break up and a stalker ex . The writer of the song also has said many times “it’s NOT a love song.” The duffers obviously knew that. Lumax also danced to it and Lucas was called a ‘stalker’ before they go to the dance floor- to emphasize this point. El also stalked Mike in s2 (all that stuff milevens found romantic- El watching him without him knowing. Mike says he was not ok with it in s3). And in s3 when he said not to do that she just says ‘i make my own rules’.

* lumax also danced to ‘time after time’ which is also a song about a breakup. And, Max in s2 when arguing with Lucas’ says “ you guys act like you want me to be your friend but then you just treat me like garbage” (paralleling mileven when El said mike treated her “like garbage” in s3 , before she dumps Mike.)

You can read about more of these “coincidences” or what I’d like to think are purposeful parallels HERE. Warning there’s a lot of parallels.

#joyce byers #jim hopper #mike wheeler #el hopper #stranger things #anti mileven

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him-e · 4 years ago

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Could you give some recommendations of TV shows that are, in your opinion, good/interesting/fun to watch/etc.? They can be recent or older ones, and pretty much of any genre (also, the more recommendations, the better).

disclaimer: I haven’t been in the *right* mood to really get into anything for a LONG WHILE, so my feelings about tv and movies at the moment exist in a spectrum that goes from “ok I guess” to “this somehow sucks even more than my life does and I want to crawl into a hole and rot in it”. So don’t expect lots of flailing and squeeing, lol. THAT SAID, I’m going to focus on the stuff I’ve seen recently:

bridgerton. mildly fun. very cw-ish but with occasional sexplosions. a mix between reign and gossip girl set in regency era. no mr darcy equivalent, unfortunately (the duke of hastings is 100% a chad). also don’t expect historical accuracy or anything like actual jane austen vibes. the main couple is quite shippable and has some decent banter and slow burn until it suddenly escalates into marriage and the sexplosion I mentioned above. the best part, though, is that i’m apparently shipping in*cest again

the undoing. nicole kidman is married to hugh grant, who is, shockingly, an asshole. but before you think “typecasting”, more on the creepy than pathetic side. the mystery is kinda underwhelming imo bc it leads you to think there’s much to the story than what you originally thought, but no, it really is that simple.

the crown. what can i say? very well written and acted. It’s also super slow and analytical, and can be occasionally boring, if you’re not in the mood. I’m being super slow at catching up because I’m watching it with my mother, and I’m still at season 3 and feeling inappropriately (but also predictably) sympathetic towards Charles (but I’m looking forward to the Diana episodes). This is also a good show if you wanna play “drink every time you recognize a Game of Thrones/Being Human/*insert iconic franchise starring predominantly british folks* actor”. Speaking of royals...

the queen’s gambit. 10/10. Singlehandedly cured my depression for a week. absolutely perfect in every aspect (almost---the lack of a main romance with HEA was a bit of a bummer, but there’s shipping material nonetheless): only one season, “strong” heroine in the sense that she’s a character with an actual PERSONALITY who falls and has genuine flaws and---despite being “inexplicably” a genius (the show gives the context of how she learns to play chess but doesn’t go out of its way to *justify* her talent or how she managed to pulverize guys older and better trained than her)---falls, and loses, sometimes badly, actually at one point slips into a pit of depression and self destruction but only to eventually rise again. I also somehow didn’t come out of this show hating the entire male gender any more than I already do, even though it’s a story about a woman in a male-dominated field who often has to face sexism and patronising attitudes from her peers. but almost everyone she meets is, actually, a quite decent guy? even those who initially challenge her or treat her condescendingly. It’s also a lesson about writing stories with very definite ANTAGONISTS who, however, are NOT villains (but obviously this wouldn’t work for every genre, this one is a fairytale-ish coming of age, a female power fantasy set in the real world, it actually reminded me of 80′s spokon/shoujo anime like Attacker You)

a discovery of witches. I’ve seen only season one so far, and let me say I didn’t expect a main romance between a VAMPIRE and a WITCH to be such a SNOOZEFEST. dear god. I swear they’re giving me Bill/Sookie vibes (and I like Matthew Goode). but aside from this, it’s sorta watchable, and there’s an *evil* finnish witch who’s in a sorta kinda enemies-to-friends dynamic with the protagonist

his dark materials. Still have to catch up on season 2 because I feel rather lukewarm about it. I haven’t read the books so I can’t tell if it’s a good adaptation or not. From what I can see, everything is in the right place to make it a good story, but somehow, I’m not vibing with it? Maybe I’m just too old to care about stories with child protagonists lol.

cursed. watch it for the weeping monk. YES he’s Medieval Kylo Ren.

the boys. pretty much the most FUN (and plot-heavy) shit I’ve seen recently, but also the only good take about marvel-style superheroes and their whole fake-deep, dishonest, intensely capitalistic rhetorics i can stomach anymore (beyond the on the nose parody and obvious--a bit insufferable actually--genre-subverting intent, try looking at Homelander & co. through the lens of this post). oh yeah I also ship Frenchie and Kimiko btw, which just proves how a mediocre show can become good, and a good show can turn into AMAZING if there’s something I can ship in it.

now quite out of character for me but here’s a couple Netflix rom com movie recs:

holidate. yeah I know christmas time is over but this somehow became my new comfort movie. Fake dating at its finest. Hot, fun, not insufferably cheesy, definitely not a Hallmark Xmas movie (you know those movies where as a set up the female protagonist breaks up with her long term fiance and she’s like, “oh.”, and proceeds to be sad for 0,5 seconds? This is not one of those), it’s an actual slow burn, and there’s a part where the heroine has a diarrhea emergency which a) is not played as a gross joke and b) somehow leads to hot, romantic sex??

leap year. a 2010 movie with Matthew Goode (who is sexier here than in vampire form) and Amy Adams, it’s a road trip in Ireland (!!!!) with a shitton of belligerent romantic tension and fanfic tropes, 10/10

#anon #asks #*#recs*#show recs #movie recs

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pseudoneiiric · 4 years ago

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meta post: lili and her gender

let me go on the record to say that i fucking love lilian eyler with my whole heart, like, i typed all this out and im so fucking emotional about her! in the past, i've written things about hello charlotte and how the lgbt representation is... lacking, let's call it, and i've also made a few headcanon posts here and there about lilian's transition and her relationship with gender. so i thought, you know, let's actually write a whole ass thing about it. so here it is.

content warnings: gender dysphoria, suicide attempts, homophobia/transphobia in the original source material

PART 1: ETHERANE'S BAD TAKES so... etherane did not handle lgbt stuff well, like, in the slightest. lili is canonically genderfluid, as seen in one of those little profile things that etherane drew that doesn't actually show up in any of the games. but her genderfluid identity isn't handled well at all in the actual source material. actually, in general, hello charlotte is pretty transphobic. to cite one example, there’s this journal entry in hello charlotte 3 talking about “defective” charlotte vessels, and one of the things that can make a charlotte vessel “defective” is for them to be born amab or intersex. this already has some really bad vibes, but then we remember also that one of the big functions of charlottes is apparently for them to be sexualized (yikes!!!!!) and so we also get this weird kind of like, “trans people aren’t hot” kind of take?

but anyway. when it comes to lilian specifically, she never actually states in canon that she’s genderfluid or otherwise trans, not even in the spinoff visual novel, which, by the way, would have been the perfect place to address her gender identity, and she consistently uses he/him pronouns. we don’t actually get to see any of her thought processes about her gender at all — like at this point, i can’t even say it’s a non-issue because that would imply that they even mentioned her gender in canon. the only time we can potentially extrapolate from canon that lili might not be cis is when anri mentions that charlotte is lili’s self-insert oc. that’s kind of heavy-handed with the whole “charlotte being the female name for charles”, but that’s another matter. the point is, with the lack of any canon basis that lilian’s even vaguely questioned her gender, the reveal that she’s actually genderfluid with like, two pieces of artwork that are detached from the actual game feels very pxrfxrmxtxvxly xnclxsxvx (performatively inclusive) especially considering how.... etherane talked about lilian’s gender in particular within the actual canon material.

after all, the story behind lilian is effectively that, after she was born, her mother was forced to abort her second child, a daughter that she would name scarlett. doing so plunged her into a really deep depression that eventually took on delusional qualities. so ever since lilian was about three years old, her mother has been referring to her exclusively as scarlett, asking her to ‘ be a good girl ’ and similarly raising her as a girl. we can see here that etherane seems to have implied that genderfluidity is something that happens because other people make it so, and isn’t an identity and lived experience. (bad take!) although, albeit unintentionally, i think etherane did lay some groundwork to talk about lilian’s relationship with her gender, specifically with regards to her projection onto her oc, charlotte. in high school, when she’s more active on the internet, we see that she’s going by charlotte and using she/her pronouns. anri, her irl friend, is pretty openly critical of that, but she sort of brushes off anri’s complaints and continues to present as feminine online. now, there’s this fanfic writer who goes by the pseudonym “c”, and lilian very quickly takes an interest in him. the way she talks to c, who doesn’t know her irl, compared anri, who does, is just like flat-out like they’re completely different people.

compare, her with c:

to her with anri:

i also wanted to mention that lili does occasionally act more “femininely” with anri, but it’s never to the extent that she does with c, and in general, affectionate banter is sort of... outright ridiculed in their friendship both ways. see this one exchange:

anri: >:) always up for some roasting lili: right? <3 <3 anri: now you’re the one being gross

unrelated but it fucking kills me that anri was like “ily <3” and lili went “gross” so she went “kys” and lili deadass goes “that’s better” like that’s what anri is referencing when she says “now you’re the one being gross” and im like... please just be healthy friends who don’t wish death on each other???

it’s also worth noting that c doesn’t know that she’s not “actually” a girl, and literally when they meet, she goes like, “it’s you who should be disappointed in me. charlotte turned out to be charles, whoops! i bet you were hoping that i’d be a cute girl.” and that’s... really depressing, like, she ended up really leaning into that cutesy side of her when she was talking to c and now she feels the need to be a lot more... sarcastic and bitter, like how she is with anri, because now c “knows the truth about her”, that she’s “actually been a guy all along”.

in any case, i think the intent that etherane was going for with this was kind of like... “lilian’s actually a repressed cis gay man!” which is . not great. it gives off this really gross vibes where it’s implied that since lili was raised as a girl and is into men, she got “confused” and started going by she/her online because she couldn’t come to terms with her sexuality or whatever. and that’s just such a bad take!!!

not to mention that a really important part of lili’s backstory is... her germaphobia. she has persistent delusions accompanied by visual hallucinations where she sees people as “parasites”, which visually manifests as them rotting or decomposing. because of that, she wears gloves all the time and is repulsed by physical touch. but when she meets c (whose real name is vincent) in person, she pretty much instantly goes for skin-to-skin contact with him, where she takes off her glove and holds his hand. and like, sure, that’s sweet, but that’s really not how mental illness... works. in the slightest. she doesn’t react at all when his hand touches hers, despite the fact that she has literally had panic attacks in canon from touching things without her gloves. and it gives off this implication that mental illness can be cured with romance somehow, and that’s a really bad take!

this feeds into fandom understanding that like, well, if lilian sees vincent as pure and allows him to touch her, then Obviously she’d let him kiss her, they could probably have sex, etc. and like... she’s canonically asexual though! and that brings us to the other implication, that asexuality is somehow... caused by something. like, there’s nothing in canon to state that lilian experiences sexual attraction (or even really romantic attraction, like i know etherane went off in heaven’s gate and did a lot of ship tease, but she never really outright says she’s crushing on anyone), but judging from the way etherane handled lilian’s gender identity, i have a sneaking suspicion that she established lilian’s asexuality with her mental illnesses specifically in mind. lilian’s autistic, germaphobic, has severe ocd, and she’s been sexually assaulted in the past. therefore, she must be asexual! that’s the sort of vibes i get from the game, and im not here for it. similarly to how her genderfluidity was handled, she makes no actual statement in canon that she doesn’t experience sexual attraction. the closest she’s ever come to this is when she says to anri in heaven’s gate that she is just straight up not interested in kissing (to which anri is like, “well what if it were vincent owo??” which. ugh. anyway). it just seems really strange to me to design a character with severe mental health issues with regards to physical touch and then just sort of treat it as a given that she’s asexual. it’s another example of etherane implying that lgbt identities are results of traumatic experiences or symptoms of mental illness and not an identity or lived experience. you can be sex-repulsed and not be asexual, and while i understand that many people do identify as ace due to trauma and other such things, it still feels like really bad rep when taken with the way lilian’s genderfluidity was portrayed.

PART 2: HOW “CHARLES” IS DIFFERENT FROM “LILIAN”

throughout hello charlotte, lilian identifies herself as a passive observer, someone who doesn’t directly interfere in events. this applies mostly to her existence in false realm, where she’s like... a god, and doesn’t want to interfere in the balance of the world. but i believe she also has always seen herself as an observer. in her very first scene, the one where she and anri are watching someone get bullied, she’s the one who tells anri that there’s no point in getting help. because her role is just to observe. to take pictures for anri, to be a good girl, to say yes to everything and to never express her opinions, feelings, thoughts.

and honestly, i think the main reason for that is that she’s dysphoric. whenever she talks about herself, she’s really self-deprecating, especially compared to when she talks about charlotte. i feel like the main reason why lilian detaches herself from the world and refuses to really perceive herself is because she’s fundamentally disgusted with her gender presentation. and like, we can see in the two times that she’s presented femininely (with c and in that one comic) that lili is just so much happier and more bubbly when she’s presenting as feminine. you can literally see her stop dissociating and becoming more present in the moment because she’s just. so much more comfortable in her skin. compare:

these pictures with this one:

it’s funny i was going to say that there is a picture where she’s presenting as masculine and actually smiles like a person, but guess what! she’s texting c! so she’s actually performing femininity!

but the point is, like... when she’s presenting as masculine, especially in the canon pictures rather than etherane’s art, she just doesn’t look... happy. and then we compare that to how much more present she seems when she’s presenting as feminine, and how much more comfortable she seems in being, like, happy! and cute! but there is a downside to this. and that is...

PART 3: DIFFICULTIES IN LILI’S TRANSITION

in my sort of... “main verse” for lili, i have it so that her suicide attempt failed and that she was somehow... saved from drowning. mother passes away and she starts to... soul search a little bit and find a reason to live, and somewhere along the line she starts to transition socially. that means she starts transitioning at a pretty... extremely vulnerable point in her life. in the year between 18-19 years old, she’d be a wreck. she’s growing her hair out, but she feels insecure about it. she starts to wear skirts, but only at home. she buys makeup and never wears it. it’s a long process for her, because it’s one thing to go by she/her online or to claim she’s just a gender-confused gay boy and a completely different thing to come out as a trans woman and to actually see herself as a woman and not some kind of imposter. considering that she was raised as a girl, she would have a large amount of guilt over transitioning, feeling like she’s going to be seen as confused, or that her gender identity is a direct result of her childhood trauma. but she’s not just worried that others will see her that way: she’s worried that she’s going to see herself that way.

and for a long time, she probably does see herself that way. for a long time, scarlett would probably treat her transition as some kind of attempt to personify her unborn sister and comply with perceived expectations rather than an attempt to feel comfortable in her own skin. she’d get nervous that she’s somehow becoming scarlett, because though she’s always thought it would be easier if she’d just been her sister, she’s never really wanted to be scarlett. she’d be scared to wear mid-length skirts, scared to put her hair up in a bun, probably even scared to wear red for a time, all because she’s scared of somehow losing herself and becoming her alter.

because of her caution and concern with identifying as a trans woman and not as the “safer“ gender identity of genderfluidity (where she can say she’s trans but never actually have to “push boundaries” by wearing feminine clothing or using any pronouns besides he/him), it would likely take her a very long time to take the step to medically transition. she’d likely never get any gender affirmation surgeries just because of how invasive the procedure is, but hormones would probably be something she’d look into once she’s much older and has a more stable income.

i mentioned before that before her transition, she uses dissociation and observation as a way to cope with her gender dysphoria. she saw herself as someone who didn’t really participate in the world, was a class ghost, invisible to everyone and a minuscule part of a vast universe. but upon transitioning, she’d feel much more actively self-conscious. once she starts to present in a feminine way, she’d feel like she’s being seen, like she’s actually participating in the world, and that’s both a blessing and a curse.

she’d be much more prone to stammering, especially when saying her name, and would blush far more often. she’d be afraid of saying the wrong thing or messing up somehow. and on top of that, she’d likely feel predatory for talking to others, always wondering if others find her cute or repulsive, always wondering if someone will perceive her and harm her in some way.

she’d very likely also feel really guilty about her own emotional experience. because she’s so used to being a passive observer, a puppet that only does what others want, she would feel like it’s selfish to be just... content. she’s so actively disgusted with herself before she transitions that she’s never allowed herself to be mentally present for a happy moment in her entire life. she always second-guesses, always dismisses positive things as a mere coincidence, and after she transitions, when she starts being more present in her life, she’d feel so guilty for just allowing herself to be happy.

because of that, she has some trouble with presenting as feminine consistently — she’d vary the “level” of her feminine presentation from day-to-day, where she might go full femme one day and another day stick with a beanie and a pair of slacks. she’s much more comfortable with presenting as more traditionally feminine when she’s at home or with trusted friends in a private space, but around 19 years old, she makes a vested effort to remain in public spaces. she’d time herself, saying, “for one hour, i’ll stay in this café while wearing a skirt, and then i can leave,” and she’d gradually increase the amount of time she spends in public spaces. and eventually, eventually she does end up feeling really comfortable with her gender presentation and falls into a more static sense of style. she really likes clothing design, so she ends up wearing a lot more dynamic outfits when she’s more comfortable with herself, and she probably also mildly gets into cosplay.

i also like to think that she reconnects with anri during her young adult years. either it’s like, right after her suicide attempt (i’ve written before that she’d had anri listed as her emergency contact and forgot to change it when she moved), or it’s at some point after she starts transitioning socially. i think it’d be really sweet for them to be friends in a more real way, and the sheer concept of anri teaching lili how to properly apply makeup and to set her hair is just so fucking sweet i might die. they both deserve to have friends so i think this is just a step up from hello charlotte canon.

#long post //#lilian eyler: study.#ive been working on this post for days. im fuckign emotional about her

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shlabam · 4 years ago

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ALL OF CYCLOPS’ CHILDREN, RANKED

Despite being fairly young and a very active planet-saving adventurer/ crusader for mutant rights, Cyclops has managed to father a significant number of children. Sure, all of them hail from alternate futures, many of which have been erased due to the actions of Scott Summers himself, but his DNA has traveled through space and time to create, in one way or another, ten different humans throughout the Marvel Multiverse. And now, because it’s the internet, they will be ranked by coolness. Feel free to become furious in the comments. [Note: this article only discusses characters who were directly descended from Cyclops’ DNA. No adoptees, grandchildren, or in-laws, just his direct kids.]

9-10 (tie): Charles and Jeanette Summers (Millennial Visions)

Somebody’s gotta be at the bottom. These tykes only exist on one page of X-Men: Millennial Visions, a one-shot where various artists showed their ideas for what the X-Men would look like in the new millennium. One artist apparently thoughts the coolest possible idea would be for a lull in villain activity, allowing Scott and Jean to settle down and have a couple kids. Charles and Jeanette rank at the bottom of this list for having no discernible powers, as well as very lazy names. (Really? You’re gonna name them after your most important mentor, and yourself, but with an -ette on the end? Think outside the box, Red.)

6-8 (tie): Alex and the Twins (X-Men: The End)

In the alternate world of X-Men: The End, Scott and Emma Frost have four children. The oldest is later on this list, but these three duds gotta come up first, seeing as they have no traits, and two of them don’t even have names. It’s implied that they have powers and have been trained in unarmed combat, but with all their appearances being in the background and no lines of dialogue, they can’t hold a candle to the children of Cyclops who affect the worlds around them. Plus, you can’t fool me: those twins are just two spare Stepford Cuckoos with drawn-on freckles. Come on!

5: Megan Summers (X-Men: The End/ GeNext)

Megan Summers, the oldest of Scott and Emma’s children from X-Men: The End, suffers from underexposure. She mostly exists as a prop for Scott and Emma to agonize over, such as when she is kidnapped by Mister Sinister. However, as she grows into her powers (fairly potent telepathy), she enters a relationship with Oliver Raven (son of Rogue and Gambit) and joins his team GeNext, the next generation of X-Men. In another universe, she could have had her own title and adventures, but the short run of GeNext leaves most of her stories untold.

4: X-Man

Nate Grey, created by Mister Sinister using Cyclops and Jean Grey’s DNA in the alternate timeline Age of Apocalypse, could have ranked higher on this list if it was still the 90s. However, as we move further and further from his relevance, we are forced to examine his contributions to the Marvel Universe after his arrival in the main timeline: had the ego to call himself X-Man (yikes), had the ego to call himself the Shaman of the Mutant Tribe (double yikes), lost a lot of his powers in combat with the Sugar Man (what a loser), and lately has function as more of an antagonist to the team from which he took his name. Sure, he has his fans, but it’s hard to relate to a character this powerful. Bonus points for his initial escape from the Age of Apocalypse: stabbing Apocalypse’s son with a chunk of the M’Kraan Crystal. That’s some Final Fantasy ish.

3: Ruby Summers

Hailing from the same future as Bishop, Ruby acts as one of the figureheads for the Summers Rebellion, a mutant uprising to campaign for mutant rights in a world where they’re frequently held in internment camps. Another potential offspring of Scott and Emma Frost, Ruby is also the only one of Scott’s children to not exhibit telepathic powers, instead inheriting her father’s optic blasts and her mother’s invulnerable gemstone form. Additionally, she can retain her ruby form for any amount of time, granting her immortality (she looks to be in her 20s but is actually over 80 years old). Despite being interesting enough for her own series (or at least membership in a team book), Ruby only appears in a single arc in Peter David’s X-Factor, leaving much of her story untold. However, she gets points docked by being romantically linked with time-traveling serial killer and all-around grease-stain Trevor Fitzroy. Ew.

2. Cable

The most successful of Cyclops’ children, and also the only one he had intentionally. Born of Scott and his first wife Madelyne Pryor (who was a clone of Jean, so he’s kinda Jean’s kid, too), little Nathanial Summers was born with incredible mutant potential, but an infection with a techno-organic virus caused him to be pulled 2,000 years into the future where his condition could be treated. Since then, he’s traveled back and forth to the future, led scores of teams, fought Apocalypse, fought Mister Sinister, fought his own clone Stryfe, raised the first mutant born after M-Day, got fused with Deadpool, was portrayed in film by Josh Brolin, and currently exists in a younger form alongside the X-Men on the mutant utopia Krakoa. And despite all these incredible accomplishments and iconic character design, Cable just couldn’t plug in to the number one spot on this list.

1. Rachel Grey

The original, still the best. Rachel Summers has everything you want in a Cyclops offspring. Telepathic and telekinetic powers? Check. Hails from a post-apocalyptic future? Check, the world of Days of Future Past. Traumatic backstory? She was a literal slave trained to track down and kill other mutants as one of Ahab’s Hounds. Member of many teams? X-Men, Excalibur, Starjammers, and the current X-Factor, just to name a few. However, what sets her apart is her intentional iconoclastic views with her father. She adopts her dead mother’s alias, changes her last name to be closer to her, and, despite potentially having the same earth-shattering powers as her “siblings” Cable and X-Man, manages to keep it all under control, as well as occasional flirtations with the Phoenix Force. A genuine boss, a class above the rest. However, there’s another Summers son that can’t be discounted.

0. unnamed baby of Scott and Jean (X-Men: Millennial Visions)

Despite only appearing on one page of the same one-shot referenced at the beginning of this list, the sheer number of questions generated by this single illustration are innumerable. Why is this the only Cyclops kid to get both Scott and Jean’s powers? How is it possible for a baby to tap into their X-Gene at such a young age? Did Xavier design that X-Diaper, knowing the child would be the youngest member of his paramilitary force? (Eat that, 13-year-old Kitty Pryde!) This baby is everything Charles and Jeanette aren’t: potent, captivating, adorable, and lacking a first name. Give him a cinematic universe before he stops being cute.

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lightcreators · 5 years ago

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a slightly altered timeline 2) the timeline in which they never met who would become the most influential or important person in their life, or that person was taken from them before they were capable of forming memories. @witchingrey

Okay. First of all, I have no idea how to start that answer unless you are going to have a heavily meta about the 'what if Lelouch had never met C.C how canon would have going?'. As a Code Geass veteran for be here since the first time it aired, and since how much I am emotionally conflicted with canon (hi Euphemia's death, hi R2, hi Zero Requiem), I have lot of thoughts, so many to say about the absence of Lelouch/C.C bond would impact canon.

Take a seat, prepare a number of handkerchiefs, we are going into a trip.

* Main divergence: Lelouch never received the Geass. From this information, the canon has a possibility of being transformed into two routes which I will call route a) Lelouch doesn't become by definition Zero since no possibility allows him to become it and to realize his greatest dream, which completely depend on his relationship with the future Black Knights following episode 1 of R1; route b) Lelouch nevertheless becomes Zero, conscious of his humanity, that he has no backup solution, that each movement on his part can no longer be recovered and that each error will be fatal. Besides how Lelouch can switch to route a) or b) and having a chance on itself depending if he survive the end of ep 1 of R1. You know, do you remember that soldiers were on the way to kill him? I prefer put that detail without a specific reason since it's cement the canon. Meaning that Lelouch would face three choices: 1) to be killed, 2) to escape but be wounded, 3) escape unwounded. I find myself offering open the three possibilities and depending of Lelouch's state, he will get either a) or b).

* Lelouch would devote himself completely to Nunnally until she is his only anchor. Into that timeline, if his sister disappear of his care or if his sister ended up died or without his saving hands --- Lelouch would never recover of it and it would be an complete emotional death. Nunnally would be the only person in the world to have a glimpse of his true nature, of the gentleness and the softness that man possess, inclined to do anything for protect her --- however regardless of a) or b) the heavier traumas weighing his shoulders, the exposition of his pain and doubts towards circumstances, the duty he feel and the unfair sentiment that following him, the hatred he have towards his world...wouldn't be known. Into route b) Nunally wouldn't still supposed to know that Lelouch is Zero --- and losing her over that fact would be insupportable *waves at the end of R1/some parts of R2* Meaning that Lelouch is condemned to losing his will of life into this timeline, to be removed of the reason of his actions/desire without any way to take it back, to live an emotional death that will lead him to sacrifice everything about his mental health/his sanity/his dreams/his future for her sake. Because, compared to canon, there would be no emotional support that would be able to understood how much Nunnally is his entire life and be able to put sense on him. Into this timeline, maybe Suzaku would handle that duty instead however it won't be enough.

* Remember into canon that Lelouch is the expert of mask himself under various personality traits, lie as he breathes, and tend to say the exact opposite of what he really thinks just to continue a general 'perception' that he wants under control? Canon can hold it beer. Into route a) it will change to an coping mechanism virally that his existence will deteriorate in this feeling of observing without being able to do anything, of having no possibility of reacting and finding himself in a feeling of being a 'bird in a cage until he runs out of oxygen'. He is doomed to lose interest in the world around him which he wants to destroy, which he refuses, but since he is nobody, remained nobody, will have to undergo the cruelty of his father's actions, will have to manage complicated situations with his family ... that his perspective will be similar to that of the canon but in a very bad way: he will detach himself so much from reality that he will no longer have any interest for it. Meaning, he will treat people like pieces of chessboard and shut himself up without letting anyone close. Into route b) Lelouch will cling to his role of Zero as second nature that he not allowed himself unless expected by some people into some instances (Nunnally, Suzaku, Kallen at some point, Euphemia when his identity is discovered) to reveal pieces of his true personality. Knowing that he is stuck without the potential to have a backup power, he will want to use his intelligence in every corner of opportunity that he has, to influence the people around him to play in his favor, will want to control the world around him insidiously and gaining power that way --- by hanging on to it even more and wanting to increase it even more. Allowed to be seen as a horrible person, to be seen as a heartless murderer, to have no consideration for the feelings of the people around him, he will play on each of these layers by pretending indifference of all the pain he feels proportionally to what he does. In this route, his true nature and his true ambitions will remain well locked inside him and alone he will face the mixture of guilt / regret / doubt / distress towards these actions...and since he is fated to an emotional death with the events of the canon, nothing can stop him.

* It's a point which I have the feeling of necessary to note: Lelouch will never know the feeling of love or in his case an inexplicable bond with another person whom he wishes to protect and feels free into the already presented love interests canon (Shirley into an complexed one-sided from her part and a deep affection of Lelouch that already not asking himself how he feel really towards her, one-sided love from Kallen) or those who can be perceived as such (* waves at Suzaku *). I want to say that canon-wise, it's already complicated for Lelouch to show more than platonic interest in someone and he certainly has his own way of showing more which comes in several interpretations (I could almost write his relation with C.C is a mixture of platonic, denied romantic , something much more mystical that I can made a novel on their relation and their dynamic depending of the eyes of the observer about the way to take it... but that's not the subject). Meaning? Meaning that regardless of a) or b) Shirley/Lelouch would end up with barriers on their ways from my others points exposed earlier. Kallen/Lelouch is a little doomed since the beginning but depending how far their relationship develop coming from Lelouch statut with the Black Knights, they come to have more development that the presented show. Suzaku is the special case of 'I love you but I want to kill you' from the wonderful inversed dynamic of Kamui/Fûma from X or the major theme about complicated love by CLAMP --- it's neither the point of this post but the dynamic of Lelouch/Suzaku though their mutual friendship/hatred is wonderful and would be deeper into that timeline that canon would expose.

* The traumas triggering by Charles vi Britannia would have been higher that canon, to the horrible point that even sending Lelouch into some therapy wouldn't help him. In canon, Lelouch was able to facing the immortality of his father because he have the Geass and a way to fighting back, to didn't turn out his pawn without be powerless --- here, whatever it's a) or b) Lelouch would have been fated to dealing with the fact without way to removing him of the picture and be fully 'used' by his father as a pawn. Since Lelouch wouldn't be able to becoming Emperor, that removing the entire Zero Requiem stuff...and since he hadn't the Geass and would have conscious of it otherwise into the OG timeline with Mao as first perspective of it...the show would have ended either into a) or b) into Lelouch having his dad as enemy...with high probability he get doomed by the same man into higher traumas. It would be the most ironic thing in existence since his name is a catchphrase, but Lelouch would hate to be a 'vi Britannia', to be one of these guys who destroyed the world...and will not having an occasion to coming in terms with his identity. He would fall into the holding 'Lamperouge' as much he can, feeling safety into 'Zero'...but in the end, would be entirely broken down by the actions of his father. Since...Charles would manage to bring up the Ragnarok to the world...and V.V wouldn't be stopped. Though it's a timeline in which Euphemia death doesn't happen and route b) showing hope about that peace be able to be created ---- route b) would exposing harder the emotional conflict Lelouch have with his siblings. Also, Lelouch is fated of not knowing the truth about his mother.

* miscellaneous on R1 if route b) : Clovis's arc taking longer to be finalised, Lelouch/Ohgi relationship taking more time so settle down since Lelouch can't afford to doing a mistake into his manipulation, showing arguments he is an leader and can be trusted without his Britannia origin showing up, major emotional conflict about Suzaku be the Lancelot all along, Lelouch risking to die in Narita, Lelouch constant fear to losing Suzaku and that One Scene when he have to find another way to making him live and he won't end up killed with him, Jeremiah's arc turn out even more complicated to win, Lelouch/Euphemia managed to doing that peace and saving a part of the Japanese with the immediate consequences on it, some breakdown of Lelouch when his sister is gone, Lelouch reveal be even more heartbreaking that the canon, Mao be the real exposure of the power of the Geass for Lelouch, Shirley remembering that Lelouch is Zero and be emotionally conflicted...

* miscellaneous on R2 if route b) : Lelouch not having his memories back until a long while or something triggering it, his inability to coping with the lose of Nunnally following it, an further complexed relationship with Rolo, an complexed relationship with Suzaku if as canon he became one of the Emperor's Knight, Diethard becoming an horrible problem for Lelouch, Black Knights betrayal destroying emotionally him for once and all, Schneizel turning into a long-term enemy for Zero, Charles vi Britannia be the last problem to stop...

Such a nice timeline...

#witchingrey #( answered. )#long post //#i have tried :'D #code geass spoilers //

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sleepyarthur · 6 years ago

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Arthur and Mary-Beth is the OTP.

THIS WILL BE LONG. But if you’re willing to be convinced, then I invite you to read it. I also recommend watching the cutscenes and dialogue (look for them around youtube if you can) I refer here for more clarity if you’re feeling a bit confused on some parts because I can’t write well enough to save a life sometimes. :( So, first and foremost, we know Arthur’s very secretive. He’s this man who’s sensitive by nature but hides it through his gruff, masculine exterior in an attempt to still remain intimidating and superior to the other gang members, especially as Dutch’s right-hand man. There’s evidently only 3 or 4 potential people he folds to when it comes to his “romantic” side as these people put it, namely, Mary-Beth, Tilly, Hosea, and potentially Karen (although there isn’t much hint towards it). Hosea’s understandable as he loved him like a father. The girls, on the other hand, he treats as close friends, especially with the friendly banter they have from time to time. Lenny is also a possibility but he only opens up to him like twice, once when he’s drunk (”No one would have me”) and the other when Tilly and Hosea was around pushing him to answer about the way he wanted to be buried. His interactions with Mary-Beth is a little different from the other girls. She’s the only one who he is fine with talking about his deeply personal journal, even though he just wanted to laugh with her about his writing in particular. Also, isn’t it strange that Mary-Beth shared a mutual interest in the same hobby? Anyhow, whenever Mary-Beth asks, you bet Arthur delivers with hardly any hesitation. When Mary-Beth asks about Mary at the beginning of Tilly’s rescue mission, Arthur actively talks about very intricate details of his complicated relationship. First, how he’s been thinking how “it all ended”, mentioning the back and forth stubbornness between the two (”She didn’t love me enough, I guess, or I wouldn’t change”) and how much he admits he’s a fool for her (”Well, she put a lot of good years in an outlaw”). Another point of his openness to share with Mary-Beth could be seen through a domino game with her. When she asks him about the flower on his tent, he mentions his mother almost immediately. I was thinking that he would’ve probably said something along the lines of “Just a flower I picked up,” or the same line he says afterward that it’s a “good luck charm”. Instead, he begins with “Oh, it’s something my ma always liked.” Strangely, throughout the game, you almost never really see Arthur open up about his parents before except through this one small interaction between them and the very riveting conversation he has with Sister Calderon. And finally, Mary-Beth is one of the few who he opens up to about his sickness. Some members he tells of his sickness but does not reveal it’s something he could die from, aside from Charles. Most of the members just find it out on their own, judging from Arthur’s behavior and how sick he looked. Even for someone like Sadie, he doesn’t falter and admit it, and she finds out anyway through his implications when he asked her to help John’s family. Mary-Beth has a conversation in the Chapter 6 camp where he openly admits his situation, and only to Mary-Beth alone, not for the other girls like the other conversations. Afterward, he states something that even he wouldn’t even tell Sister Calderon, or Charles during their heartfelt conversation onward to Fort Wallace. He tells her that he “started to see things differently,” and that “the whole world seems different somehow.” It’s strange how such a simple conversation can reveal so many thoughts of Arthur outside of his journal, with none other than Mary-Beth. Next up, some more minor points but still support the theory nonetheless: Another unique interaction he has compared to the other members of the camp is his constant asking of her if she’s okay with the decision of joining the gang. He always asks her if she was happy sticking with them “reprobates” or if she’s okay about joining "this band of maniacs”. For a man who loved his gang like a family, he’s constantly trying to steer her away from their outlaw life, asking her about it possibly hoping that one day she’ll say no and make a life for herself. It also shows his protective nature towards Mary-Beth. Remember Karen joining the bank robbery in Valentine? He didn’t seem to mind that Karen’s going to involve herself in a high stakes bank robbery planned by the clumsy Bill himself where all of them could get killed. Yet, when Sean, the other goof of the camp, readies a plan of his own to rob a stagecoach with Mary-Beth and Arthur finds out she’s joining, he‘s up in arms about it and forces Sean to invite him, and never really admits he’s worried. It’s also important to note that during Bill’s coach robbery, he doesn’t mind inviting Tilly over to join them when Bill said he needed one of the girls to come along with them, so his demeanor towards Mary-Beth’s safety is unique in itself compared to the other girls in camp Arthur also puts Mary-Beth in high regard, even though she only knows how to steal. He brags to Sean about how she had stolen more than the both of them combined, and how he thought she was just a poor innocent girl being chased by three men until he finds out she stole so much jewelry from them. You’ll also notice Arthur scolding Sean angrily whenever he asks something from her, like “she ain’t blind,” when Sean asks her if she sees the part of the road where she’ll be putting her act on, or when he tries to confirm if she knows what she’ll be doing, A final important point, if you still aren’t convinced so far: We know that there are two times Arthur gets into these sessions where he’s thinking about the past with voices echoing in the background. It happens twice, one right after his tuberculosis diagnosis, and the second is when he’s on his last ride back to camp. In both iterations, the last voices and words he remembers are FROM Mary-Beth. Specifically, the last quote he hears after the diagnosis is “Well, she was a fool then, Arthur”. This does NOT make any sense at first, if you think about it, but context is important. Mary-Beth says this right after Arthur talks about the end of his relationship with Mary. As I mentioned previously, when Mary-Beth asked what happened with their break up, Arthur told her that he thinks that she didn’t love him enough, or that he wouldn’t change. Mary-Beth sides with him, which leads to her calling Mary a fool for not loving him enough. Arthur afterwards defends her, talking about how he’s the real fool. Perhaps, he thought he truly was, because now it was already too late for him to enjoy a life with Mary.

Meanwhile, the last quote he hears during his last ride back to camp was “Maybe it’s a sign, Arthur... try... try to do the good thing.” This dialogue comes from a conversation with Mary-Beth at camp, when he admits to her that he’s dying. Strangely, this conversation is easily missed, yet regardless if you get into the conversation or not, this will still appear. If I recall correctly, this conversation only pops up right after the TB diagnosis (which is why it’s easy to miss) and not anymore after, which implies that her words must have impacted him so much that he followed through with it for the rest of the chapter. Maybe Rockstar planned for this conversation between them to be a part of the mission somehow, but never got around to it, considering how important it was. It could allude to the idea that maybe she really is the love interest of Arthur that they scrapped before the game’s release, but that’s another theory for another time. Sure, maybe it’s just a coincidence, but there are so many other people he could remember quotes and heartfelt words from, like Sister Calderon and Hosea. Yet to have Mary-Beth’s words be the last things he thinks about in both of the times he was at his most vulnerable shows not only his value of her, but also the fact that he may have truly shaped his eventual deeds through her advice. So that’s all for this long ass essay. Maybe I’ve convinced you, maybe not, but all in all I think their relationship is so uniquely presented that it should never be overlooked. I welcome any criticism, retorts or anything that could debunk it, and I’ll be ready to answer. I think deep down they really loved each other, but neither could admit their feelings with one another. Also they’re both adults so don’t be so bothered with the age gap... I know I’m not, for Arthur I mean. :x Also, I totally don’t put myself in Mary-Beth’s shoes from time to time. *coughs* Oh no i have tb.

#mary-beth gaskill #arthur morgan #red dead redemption 2 #rdr2 #rdr2 spoilers #sorry not sorry for this long post #my two babies

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ask-the-phan-site · 4 years ago

Text

Phan Cam: City of Change

>January 31.

>Neo Yokio. The deadline has arrived and it looks like the Bachelor Board is still up.

>On the outskirts of the city, a group of Exorcists from the True Cross Order was watching it. Leading them was the Upper Class Exorcist, Igor Neuhaus.

Exorcist 1: Sir, I don’t think that calling card was legit. We should move in now.

Hold your ground. They said to give it until noon. Just one more minute.

>So they waited... 10... 9.. 8... 7... 6...

Igor Neuhaus: And...

>3... 2... 1...

Igor Neuhaus: (surprised) What in heaven’s name!?

WARNING: This next image might have hypnotic effects.

>The Exorcists were in awestruck at the sudden change of the Bachelor Board. Then, a loud wailing sound can be heard coming from the city. They could not believe their eyes.

Exorcist 2: I... I don’t believe it. They did it. They actually did it!

Exorcist 3: I know! I know!

Exorcist 4: The Phantom Thieves of Hearts actually stole the heart of every Neo Yokian!

>The Exorcist were stunned. Some of them cheered, others were talking in wonder... Guess they really never saw it coming.

Igor Neuhaus: (in wonder) Well I’ll be... Phantom Thieves... Cognitive psience... Wakaba Isshiki...

Exorcist 1: Sir Neuhaus? Is something wrong?

Igor Neuhaus: ... Everyone, our services in the city are no longer required. Let’s move on home. I’ll report to the Grigori on what we’ve learned.

Exorcist 1: Yes, sir.

>With that, the Exorcists start leaving.

Igor Neuhaus: Phantom Thieves... Something tells me from this moment on, I’ll be keeping an especially close eye on you. (begins taping his uncovered eye)

>With that, he leaves with the rest of the Order... But someone appears where they were... holding a sword.

>At Bergdorf Goodman Department Store in the city, it is normally filled with the city’s wealthiest. However, people of other classes were now inside and being treated as equals.

They were right. The Order. The Phantom Thieves. This is how it should be. With everyone here in the store. It’s a lot more lively. This is because we let ourselves be blinded by the glamour and money... Me, especially. What a fool I’ve been.

>The Caprese Martini Bar. Lexy and Gottlieb were shutting it down... Most likely for good.

Lexy: You know, now that I think about it, the reason why our bar is so small is because we went into this business too fast. It may look fancy, but it needs more customers instead of one at a time.

Gottlieb: Yeah, we should have thought about this more and at least start small so are bar wouldn’t. But we wanted to make a name of ourselves without considering every possibility. What kind of idiot does that?

Lexy: Well, this is it. The end.

??????: Not necessarily.

Lexy: Huh? And you are?

Just a couple of people know the business. And we don’t want all that Caprese to go to waste.

He’s right. That’s one of the reasons we came here to you.

Lexy: What do you mean?

Mutton: We’ve tasted your drink and we love it. I would very much like to sell it at my bar. If that is alright with you. We don’t want to do this without your consent.

Lexy: ... What have got to lose?

Gottlieb: Yeah, we can let you have it.

Roderick: Glad to hear it. In times like this, us restaurant people have to stick together.

Mutton: “Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean...” To pillage the inner thoughts of a certain someone. But it does ring true. Just trust us.

Lexy: We will... Thank you.

Roderick: Don’t give us all the credit. The Phantom Thieves had a hand in this, too.

Gottlieb: Yeah. I guess.

>The Kaan Residence. We were all watching the news about the citywide change of heart. With us were Shiemi and Izumo.

It looks like they were successful.

Pretty much. How are the others reacting back at the church?

Well, they’re a little taken aback. But they’re fine.

It would be no surprised. These Phantom Thieves do not seem like ordinary thieves.

Indeed, they’re not.

Looks like another score for them.

Shiemi: I wonder what will happen to this city now.?

I’m not sure. It will take some time for everyone to come to terms over what has happened. But other than they, they should be fine.

Shiemi: That’s good to hear.

And what about Kaz kun? How is he doing?

Charles: Actually, when I came to greet him the morning, he seemed rather fine. The same way he always is. I wonder if the change of heart worked at all.

I think I have an idea... But I think it can wait until later. I got a call from Ohya. She, her intern, and Arcangelo Corelli are coming here.

Panther: For what?

???: To see me.

>Kaz comes into the room.

Charles: Master Kaz, I trust this morning’s coffee was to your liking.

Bitter sweet. Like the rest of my life. But I think it’s about to get spicy.

Yeah. How ya doin’?

Kaz: A little nervous. What does Arcangelo want? I thought that with the whole city having a change of heart, he would probably be down in the dumps about stuff, just like my friends.

Noir: I don’t know. But I guess we’ll find out soon.

Kaz: I just hope Aunt Agatha doesn’t come home before then. I haven’t seen her since the calling card. I’m worried about what may have happened or what will happen.

Izumo: I don’t know, but I have a bad feeling about it.

Kaz: But I am a little confused about something. The city had a change of heart... So why don’t I feel any different?

>We were still not sure how to explain it... Then the doorbell rings... Saved by the bell.

That must be them.

Charles: Shall I let them in?

Kaz: I’ll get it.

We’ll come with you. You might need the extra support.

Kaz: Well, if you really want to, I guess it’s okay. And thanks.

>We follow Kaz to the front door. He opens it and, just as expected, Arcangelo Corelli was at the door along with Ohya and, who I can only assume is her new intern.

Good morning, Kaz.

Kaz: Good morning, Arcangelo.

Hey, everybody! Long time, no see!

Panther: Hey, Ohya.

Joker: And you must be...

Ah, you must be the informant Ohya told me so much about. (offers out his hand) Robert Beauchamp, bonjour.

Joker: (shaking Beauchamp’s hand) Likewise.

Skull: You did wash your hands recently, right?

Beauchamp: I just put on hand sanitizer. I think we’ll be fine for the time being.

Kaz: Did... Did Huey come, too?

Ohya: He’s not in the city anymore. The day before the calling card came, he left without a word. It turns out he want back to Woodcrest. Family emergency.

I’m sure his grandfather got worried and called him back incase something went wrong. And since his younger brother doesn’t live with them anymore, it must get pretty lonely.

Either that, or something else.

Kaz: So, what do you want to talk about, Arcangelo?

Arcangelo: Well, there’s something I have to tell you. Something I should have told you a long time ago. The truth is... I was glad you were on the Bachelor Board after Cathy left you. Same goes for the time Helena left. It’s just... I like you, Kaz. All those times I’ve been mean to you, teasing you, I was actually trying to get your attention. But now I’m starting to realize that was wrong. I know I shouldn’t be judging your for being Neo Riche, you’re just doing what you can to make others happy, better than my little podcast does. You put yourself out there everyday despite your aunt’s harsh words. We should be appreciative of that, of what every Magistocrat does. To be honest Kaz, you’re... You’re way better than me. I thought that someone like you could never be with an Old Money Fuck like me. That’s why I did all those things to you. I was jealous and I really like you. And I’m sorry. I was nothing but a big jerk to you and your friends, treated you like shit. Now I know that was wrong. I was wrong. (begins tearing up... ruining his mascara) I’m a mess. I’m not sure how to say this further, but Kaz, I’m sorry for all those things and... I LOVE YOU, KAZ KAAN!

>We were all silent for a while. Kaz made a face that I just can’t describe... So here’s a picture instead.

Joker: Uh, Kaz kun?

I think he fainted... while standing up with his eyes wide open.

Beauchamp: Is that medically possible?

Shiemi: I’m not sure. My medical skill are limited to mainly demonic injuries and ailments. But I think me and Nee can help with this.

Nee~!

>Nee goes a pepper plant out of his body. Shiemi takes one of the peppers, puts it up to Kaz’s nose, and snaps it. Kaz’s nose begins to twitch.

Kaz: Ah... Ah... ACHOO!!! (sniff) Sorry, what happened?

Crow: Before we se say anything, promise you want faint again.

>We explain it to Kaz what just happened.

Kaz: I just... I still can’t... Is this for real? Not just another one of...

Arcangelo: No. I mean it this time.

Kaz: Well, yes, but... This is still too much to absorb.

Queen: You’re conflicted. You want to accept that Arcangelo has changed, but at the same time, you feel that it’s not right because he didn’t change it himself.

Kaz: I know. I may not know much about the Phantom Thieves, other than what I’ve heard while we were in Tokyo, but I can tell that they are the good guys.

Arcangelo: I know. But maybe the just opened my eyes to something I’ve been ignoring a long time.

Kaz: Like what?

Arcangelo: I don’t know. Maybe the fact that underneath all the glamor and the family’s fortune, I’m just some kid who thinks he’s all that because I didn’t have to work a day in my life, but when the day comes to show just where you really fit in the world, he’s useless.

Kaz: ... I never thought you were useless.

Arcangelo: Really? But I thought that after the way I’ve treated you...

Kaz: I know I said we’ve been head to head since the genesis, but sometimes, things change. I’ve changed. I’m still trying to figure out where I stand now. But, after what you just said to me... Maybe I shouldn’t go at this alone.

Arcangelo: And you won’t. Not anymore.

Joker: Yes. You’ll have your friends to help you. You’ll even have us to back you up.

Arcangelo: And, you will have me.

Kaz: Everyone... Thank you. And you, too, Arcangelo.

>Kaz and Arcangelo both look passionately into each other’s eyes.

I wonder why this looks familiar?

What do you think?

Ohya: How romantic.

They’re not the only ones.

No doubt about that.

Mona: (smiling devilishly) Now it’s out turn, Lady Ann.

Maybe later.

As Teddie would say, “Shot down!”

Ohya: That’s life for ya, kiddo. That goes double for you, Beauchamp san. You may be cute, but you’re not my type.

Beauchamp: (a bit melancholy) It’s okay.

Ohya: Is something wrong?

Beauchamp: I’m fine. Just seeing all of you here reminds me of my own friends.

Violet: Do you miss them?

Beauchamp: Actually... I might see them again soon.

Violet: Really? I hope you do.

Beauchamp: I know. Merci... (whisper) I wonder how Lucien’s doing. (out loud and taking out his camera) Anyway, smile. (takes a picture) Think you’ve got a headline for this, boss-lady?

Ohya: Oh, I’ve got a good one...

From Neo Riche to Neo Era

Crow: (smiling) That’s a good one.

??????: You better stop the presses on that right now, if you know what’s good for you.

>Sounds like Aunt Agatha is home.

Kaz: Aunt Agatha, you’re back. Where were you the past few days?

Just making the final arrangements.

Kaz: For what?

Agatha: For this.

>Agatha takes a couple of airline tickets.

Kaz: I see. Are we going somewhere?

Agatha: Indeed, we are.

Kaz: I guess that’s fine. After everything that’s happened, we could use the vacation.

Agatha: Oh my dear nephew... Who said anything about going on vacation?

Kaz: (shocked) What!?

Agatha: You heard me. Pack your things, Kaz, we’re moving to Park City, Utah. I hear they could use an exorcist of our class.

Kaz: But why? What’s wrong with staying here in Neo Yokio?

Agatha: What’s wrong? Have you seen what’s going on out there? The city has fallen. It’s become a sinking ship. And when the ship starts to sink, the rats, or in this case the rat catchers, flee the ship.

Queen: But it’s not sinking. It’s just changing course.

Agatha: Yeah, towards an iceberg. Best to leave now before it’s too late. Now hurry, Kaz.

Kaz: ...

Agatha: Kaz, didn’t you hear me. We have to leave.

Kaz: ...

Agatha: (starting to lose her patience) Kaz, I mean now.

Kaz: ... I can’t.

Agatha: Come again?

Kaz: I’m sorry, Aunt Agatha, but I can’t. I can’t leave Neo Yokio. It’s my home. Our home.

Agatha: Not anymore. This city has lost what it’s need for us. That means no more being paid for our services, no gentlemen’s club for you, we can’t even keep Charles any longer.

Charles: I think I can stay with you much longer.

Agatha: Tell that to Sadie.

Beauchamp: (confused) Sadie?

Kaz: It’s a long story. But still, I can’t.

Agatha: And why not?

Kaz: Because like I said, Neo Yokio is our home. I’ve lived my whole life here and this is where I intend to die. My friends are here... The one I love is here.

>Arcangelo couldn’t help but smile happily at that.

Agatha: Are you serious right now? Don’t tell those wretched Phantom Thieves got you too.

Kaz: I don’t think they did. The whole city has changed, but I’m still me, and I don’t even know why.

Joker: I think I do.

Kaz: What do you mean?

Joker: I think the reason why the Phantom Thieves didn’t change your heart...

is because it was already changed.

Kaz: (surprised) What?

Joker: Think about it, in the past, people always said that you reveled in your glory and wealth as a Magistocrat and always putting your appearance and fashion above everything else. But after seeing how well you and Arcangelo worked together and Dream FES and seeing this whole month, at how more caring you are, I don’t think the Phantom Thieves have to change something that is no longer distorted... I would say, Kaz Kaan, you have a kind and true heart.

Kaz: (looking a little happy) Really? ... Thank you.

Agatha: (sarcastically clapping) This is a fine soap opera moment and all, but, and this is just my opinion... it makes me sick. Having a kind and true heart does not put bread on the table. It does not pay the bills or the rent. What you talk about will be nothing more than complete and utter nonsense.

Panther: (getting upset) Of course you would think that, you horrible old hag.

Agatha: Come again?

Panther: Actually, I’m also not surprised why you haven’t had a change of heart. The Phantom Thieves have always targeted the hearts of the corrupted and the tainted. To help them find some decency to confess their crimes or their guilt. The Phantom Thieves will never target you, Agatha Kaan, because...

you have no heart.

>Agatha stood silent for a moment. Then, she removes her sunglasses.

It’s true. Having a heart means nothing if it means having to live life on the streets without so much as a penny to your name. Because in the end, money is the only true power in this life... But if you insist that I’m wrong and Kaz really wants to stay in this city, very well... But not before I teach you all a lesson.

>Agatha charges her power and fires at us. Fortunately, Kaz created a kind of magic shield to protect us.

Agatha: Well, well. Looks like someone actually grew a spine.

Kaz: ... Some Christmases ago, Charles told me a story that made me question everything. So right now, I just want to know the truth. Was his story true or would it all just fiction?

>Agatha was silent for a moment. What could this mean?

Agatha: ... The Order was right. You really are the worst exorcist in this city. In fact, you’re worse than that. You, Kaz... are a hypocrite.

Kaz: (getting angry) Me? A hypocrite? You’re the one who never told me that our ancestors were nothing but a bunch of turncoats who betrayed their fellow demons for wealth and status!

Agatha: I didn’t tell you, Kaz, because you’re a pussy. You couldn’t handle the truth anymore than your aunt could. That’s why she tried to write about it. If she had told the truth, the Magistocracy would be forever ruined... And the Corellis.

>We all started at Arcangelo who was looking down.

Wolf: Arcangelo san, you knew?

Arcangelo: ... It was a secret passed down from my ancestor, Theodore Corelli. He made us promise never to reveal it to anyone. I really wanted to tell Kaz. At first, just to spite him. But now, I want him to know the truth because I have a feeling that would save you, if not from yourself, than from her. (points at Agatha)

Agatha: From me? So I’m the bad guy now?

Skull: (whispering) She’s startin’ to fit the vibe.

Kaz: ... How could you? I trusted you. You care more about our family wealth than you do your family... So how can I actually call you family now?

>We were quite in that moment. Then, to our shock and horror, Agatha’s sunglasses broke as a dark energy emits from her being.

Agatha: ... You want me to be the bad guy? ... Fine, now I’m the bad guy.

Izumo: (quickly) Everyone, get down, now!

>Agatha sends a powerful wave of darkness. Fortunately, we all duck as the dark wave nearly destroys everything in the penthouse.

Izumo: Okay, I think we’ve had enough of this. (taking out her paper circle) I humbly appeal to the goddess Inari, please leave not my prayers unfulfilled!

Shiemi: Since Bon, Konekomaru, and Nemu aren’t here, me and Nee will have to fight in their stead.

Nee: (ready) Nee~!

>Nee’s plants created a kind of barrier of green life. Guess we’re not getting out of here until the battle is done. It’s times like these, maybe we should have brought the Velvet Cores with us. But we decided to leave them with Dr. Suno to hold for us if we ever came back to the Monsuno world.

Wolf: (taking out a taser) I know this may not work against someone with magic powers, but it’s better than nothing.

>Mike and Ike both make a charge at Agatha, but she keeps blasting them away with her powers. Panther makes a whip of fire that Agatha kept blocking. Some went for vines that came from the plant walls. Kaz tries to make a beam of his powers to try and break her shield, but it was too strong. Even Wolf’s taser proved to be useless.

Agatha: Is that really the best that you can do?

Izumo: No... This is. Purifications of Spirits!

>Mike and Ike begin to circle Agatha at high speed and was biting at her. She tries to block them with a magic shield, but she made a big mistake... Bes sure to cover the back. One of Nee’s vines attacks Agatha from behind. This drops her shield long enough for Kaz to land an attack.

Kaz: Got her!

Agatha: (rubbing her head) Clever. Very clever... But not clever enough.

>Agatha sends a blasts of energy everywhere, hitting Kaz, Izumo, her familiars, and Panther. They even started destroying the plant walls. Nee was in pain.

Shiemi: This looks bad. Nee, retreat!

Nee: Nee.

>Nee retracts his plant walls.

Izumo: We better take it up. Mitama Shizume no Harai!

>Mike with a sword and Ike with a bow make a go at Agatha. But, she manages to block and parry their attacks. Kaz also creates arrows of energy and begins firing them. Thankfully, it appears that she’s wearing down.

Panther: Let’s hope this spell Bloom taught me works out. Heat Wave!

>A blast of heat energy comes from Panther’s hand and hits Agatha that she nearly falls down.

Agatha: I see, so you have some guts in you, girl... But you’ll have to try harder.

>Agatha then creates arms of energy that grab a hold of Kaz, Izumo, Mike, Uke, and Panther.

Beauchamp: Okay, this is going a little too far. Guess I better get into this.

Isn’t that a...

Beauchamp: It’s a long story. One that won’t make the presses, but may be made known. Let’s just say, when you’ve been around for as long as I have, you gain a lot and you learn a lot. Now, let me show you that the pen really is mightier than the sword... In more ways than one.

>Beauchamp points his pen at Agatha and shoots a strong blast of wind which forces her down and releases Kaz, Panther, Izumo, and her familiars.

Oh... I wonder where I can get one of those pens.

And me. I think you’re more than just a veteran reporter.

Beauchamp: Like I said, I picked up a thing or two.

Agatha: (getting back up) Really? Well I’m afraid that two things are not enough.

>Agatha fires as blast at Beauchamp as he blast his pen at it. It was a real Priori Incantatem moment... But Agatha was a little more experienced and manages to blow Beauchamp’s pen out of his hands. Fortunately, it was enough to buy Panther and Kaz enough time to charge energy and attack Agatha.

Izumo: Now will you come quietly? Or do you want more?

Agatha: ... How about you?

>Agatha’s usual yellow energy was now turning red... This can’t be good.

Shiemi: Everyone, get close to me! Nee!

Nee: Nee!

>Nee creates large bushes around us to protect us.

BOOM!!!

>After the explosion was over, the smoke cleared to show the house was now in complete ruin.

Charles: I do not think the family trust will like this.

Kaz: I don’t think that matters anymore.

Agatha: You really want to go there now? You really want to keep this up? I can go all day. Unlike my disgraced nephew, I’ve been doing this longer... Too bad I can’t say the dame about your Green Man.

>The bushes retract to a weakened Nee who collapses in Shiemi’s hands. He also seemed to be a bit brown.

Shiemi: He’s just exhausted. He’s never absorbed a blast that big.

>Panther goes over and cast some kind of healing spell on Nee.

Panther: That’s as much as I can do. I’m not a nature fairy like Flora and since my powers are almost that of a fire fairy, any stronger and I might burn him.

Shiemi: You’re doing everything you can, Ann. Don’t worry.

Agatha: And yet your everything isn’t enough. It’s just as I said, you are but a freak of nature. All of you are.

Panther: Look who’s talking. You call us freaks, but you’re no different. If anyone here is the real hypocrite right now, it’s you.

Agatha: Your words mean nothing now.

Panther: (getting angry) Well guess what... Neither does yours.

Agatha: (unimpressed) Oh, getting angry, are we?

Panther: Angry? Angry doesn’t even begin to cover it! You think that with all your power and money, most of which you made off the sweat of your nephew’s back, you can do whatever you want. But everything has a consequence. Even what you do to everyone, including Kaz. I won’t let you keep going on like this.

Agatha: Really? And what will you do exactly? Your magic has barley put a scratch on me. What makes you think that you could ever beat me?

>With that, Agatha beings streaming a blast of energy at Panther who blocks it with a shield spell. But it seemed to be failing.

Ann!

Lady Ann!

Ann chan!

(struggling) I know I can never be even half the fairy Bloom, Flora, or the other Winx girls are. I’m not even good enough to go to a fairy school. And if we were to come against villains like the Trix, the Fairy Hunters, or even someone like Valtor, I won’t be able to do much on my own unless my friends are there to help. I couldn’t even help Shiho when Kamoshida was abusing her on my own. But even so, I can’t always count on them to help me. There are times when I need to help them. They showed me that. I want be able to help all the people I care about. No matter what may happen to me... I want them to experience the freedom that I desire myself. So Agatha Kaan, no matter what you do to me here now...

YOU’LL ALWAYS BE A WRINGKLED-FACED, MONEY-GRUBBING, BITCH-ASS HARPY!

Agatha: ... Enough talk.

>Agatha strengthens her blast until... Panther’s shield breaks and she is enveloped in it... Or so we thought. A large burst of fire energy erupts from where Panther is and made Agatha’s attack stop. When it was over... we could not believe our eyes.

>Panther was now dressed in a sparkly outfit. It looked similar to her Persona, Carmen, but with some differences. The gown was now shorter reaching a little up pass her knees, though the red roses were still present on her waist, but not so big. The top had no straps. She still wore a black choker and wearing her pink gloves from her thief’s clothes. She also had high-heel boots that reach up close to her knees. She also now had heart-shaped earrings and her hairclip had been replaced with a brass hair ornament that looked like Panther’s mask. Her most notable feature was that she now had a pair of red and pink fairy wings with rose, heart, and flame designs. She was now flying up high.

FOR REAL!? NO EFFIN WAY!

Violet: I don’t believe it! She transformed!

Wolf: But I thought she couldn’t do that because she wasn’t born a Fairy.

Queen: Headmistress Faragonda also said that might change if her powers get stronger. I guess now is the time.

Agatha: (still unimpressed) So you have wings now. Big deal. My powers still succeeds yours.

Panther: We’ll see about that.

>Agatha fires another blast at Panther.

Panther: Blooming Guard!

>A pink Rose Quartz-like shield that blocked the attack.

Panther: Dance of the Roses!

>A rose whip appears in her hand and she cracks it at Agatha as rose petals start flying from them. They seemed to be quite effective as they managed to back Agatha away.

Panther: Fire Rose!

>Panther shoots a stream of fire with rose petals flying around it which Agatha blocks with a magic shield. Kaz and Beauchamp (who regained his magic pen) also cast their spells to help her. After a while, they managed to break through the shield and Agatha is knocked back.

Kaz: Agatha, please, you’re just making this harder than it needs to be. We can’t keep going like this. The family trust won’t be able to pay for the damages.

Agatha: (getting back up and scoffing) After this, the family trust is going to be the least of your worries.

Panther: So you’re still going to keep at it.

Agatha: You only just got your little wings this moment. You’re still a novice in my eyes... Now quit.

>Agatha charges her powers bigger than ever before. Panther, Kaz, and Beauchamp create a shield to protect us...

BOOM!!!

>With one explosion, the penthouse was completely destroyed. We weren’t even inside anymore...

>On a nearby rooftop, someone was watching the whole thing unfurl.

>Back with us, the smokes was clear, but we were on our last leg. Panther, Izumo, Kaz, and Beauchamp were now exhausted.

Izumo: (gasping) We can’t go on. At this rate, she’s going to kill us.

Kaz: At this point... I don’t think she cares anymore.

Panther: What do we do now?

Agatha: (preparing for one last attack) I think you would have figured that out by now.

>Agatha’s next attack was now charged. This was it. What will we do now?

>...

???: THAT’S ENOUGH!!!

Agatha: !

Everyone: !

>Suddenly, a large hot blast comes flying in. I managed to get a look at what it was... Blue flames.

Kaz: (shocked) Holy...

Shiemi: Me and Izumo met Haru at a gardening exhibition... But who do you think told us about it?

So that’s...

Rin Okumura: ... Just finish it.

Panther: Right.

>Panther casts a healing spell on us. Kaz goes up to his unconscious aunt.

Kaz: (grimly) Aunt Agatha, you’ve made yourself into a danger to everyone, including yourself. I’m afraid you’ve left me with no other choice.

>Kaz’s hands charge with energy and starts to make some gestures with them.

Wolf: What are you doing?

Kaz: Just something Aunt Angelique taught me during her last visit. Let’s hope it works.

>Kaz continues his spell as a magic circle appears around Agatha. It seemed to be working, whatever it is, but not so much.

Kaz: Dammit.

Arcangelo: What’s wrong, Kaz?

Kaz: This is the first time I’m casting this spell. I guess I should have practiced it a little more. But Aunt Angelique also said this this spell is more effective if more than one person casts it. But where am I going to find two more Magistocrats right now?

>Kaz then looks to Rin Okumura.

Kaz: Fine, I’ll take what I can get. Look, I know you don’t normally do this sort of thing, but please help me here.

>Rin Okumura goes up to Agatha and begins making the same gesture with his blue flames.

Kaz: It’s working, but we need one more.

>Suddenly, I hear a voice calling. I look up.

Lavenza’s Voice: Trickster, if you can hear my voice, then you know what must be done.

Joker: I understand.

>I go next to Kaz.

Kaz: Ren?

>I point my arms at Agatha... and glowing energy came out and surrounded her.

Everyone (except Rin): !

Joker: Just keep focusing.

>Me, Kaz, and Rin continue to focus on Agatha for what seemed like forever... Then, it was over. I look up to see Rin leave. I look over at Beauchamp. He looked real serious when Rin was here. Then, I look over to Agatha who was getting up. But something was different... Agatha’s light pink hair was now... gray.

Arcangelo: Kaz, did you just...

>Agatha tries to fire energy at us... But nothing happens.

Agatha: (in utter disbelief) What... What did you do to me?

Kaz: I cannot kill you Auntie because we’re still in a way family. So we did the only thing could do... You... are not a Magistocrat anymore.

Agatha: ...

Kaz: I learned the hard way what it truly means to have a heart. Something even powers could help me with... Hopefully the same could be done for you.

>He turns to Wolf.

Wolf: Right.

>Wolf goes to Agatha, picks her up, and slaps handcuff on her.

Wolf: Agatha Kaan, you are under arrest for sedition, mistreatment, misdemeanor, exploitation, assault, and attempted murder. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have a right to an attorney and whatever counseling that attorney can provide. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you. Do you understand and accept these rights?

>Agatha, knowing that she’s been beaten, nods. Wolf then escorts her away.

Kaz: Ren, we did we just see you do?

I think... me and Rin just proved Charles’ story true...

Either that or my alien powers are active.

Skull: Still, wow. I can’t believe you could do that. And I can’t believe Ann just transformed.

Panther: (returning to Human Form) Me neither. I’ve gotta let Headmistress Faragonda know about this.

Queen: We’ll do it later. Right now, we should go.

Kaz: Go where? I mean, I know where you guys can go, but what about me and Charles. As you can see, our place is pretty much wrecked.

Skull: What about your friends’ place?

Kaz: I think they’re getting reeling from their change of heart by now. And I’m really in no mood to go to the Hamptons.

Arcangelo: Well, you could always stay at my place.

Kaz: ... Actually, I would like that very much.

Charles: Shall I salvage whatever possessions we have left here?

Kaz: I suppose we should. I’m not sure if there’s anything left.

Beauchamp: Leave it to me. I’ll see if I can get this place back in order.

>Beauchamp begins waving his magic pen and the penthouse starts to rebuild itself... Slowly but surely.

Beauchamp: Of course, this may take a while. I’ve already used up a lot of my energy today and one of my friends is more skilled at this stuff than me.

Ohya: Are you sure? I don’t think I can cover what just happened alone.

Beauchamp: Hey, I’m just the intern here. Besides, there will be other stories... Ones including that Okumura boy.

Shiemi: (curious) What do you mean?

Beauchamp: ... (small smile) You’ll see. (goes back to fixing the penthouse)

>What does he mean by that? Well, it doesn’t matter right now. Right now, we did it. We changed the hearts of everyone in Neo Yokio. It wasn’t easy, but we did it.

>Another successful heist.

>Now we know we said this would be the conclusion, but with everything that happened, I think we may need an epilogue... Hopefully it will be a short one.

#phantom thieves cam

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ramajmedia · 5 years ago

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5 Ways Friends Has Aged Poorly (& 5 Ways It's Timeless)

Friends is a classic show, but it is very hard to watch it sometimes. One of those reasons is that it is not very realistic.

Not everyone can spend all day hanging out with their best friends in a coffee shop. In real life, most people have to work, as well as take care of other important things. Another thing that makes this show hard to watch is how the rest of the characters treat Janice.

She can be rather annoying, but there are moments when she is the only one who makes any sense. These are just a couple of things that can make it hard for fans of the show to re-watch it. Here are some of the parts of Friends that didn’t age very well, as well as a few of the things that make it so great.

RELATED: 10 Things From Top Gun That Haven’t Aged Well

10 Poorly: All The Fat Jokes

This series definitely has a lot of fat-shaming in it, especially when it comes to Monica Geller. There are multiple episodes that show viewers that she used to be a bit overweight when she was younger, which was what many of the show’s jokes were based on.

That is something that really would not fly today. It gets a little worse when viewers realize that “fat Monica” is portrayed as sloppy, and she is always eating something. But when she is thin, Monica becomes obsessive about keeping things clean and tidy, and she is no longer a slob. Times have changed a lot, and most people no longer find things like this funny. The creators of the show used Monica’s weight to poke fun at her, and that is one part of the show that has not aged very well at all.

9 Timeless: Their Relationships Are A Bit Complicated Sometimes

The characters on Friends had a lot of very complicated relationships, which is part of why the show is actually very relatable. An awesome example of this is the episode called “The One At The Beach,” which shows Phoebe Buffay meeting her birth mother, whom she was named after.

While they have a decent relationship later on in the show, Phoebe has some unpleasant feelings about her birth mother in the beginning, which is understandable. The series also shows how hard dating can be, especially when it comes to Ross Geller and Rachel Green. While they do end up together in the end, their relationship throughout the series is a bit rocky.

8 Poorly: There Was A Lot Of Homophobia And Transphobia

It seems as though two of the main themes in Friends are homophobia and transphobia. There are multiple jokes at the expense of Ross’s ex-wife, Carol Willick, since she left him so that she could be with another woman, whose name was Susan Bunch. The series also features lots of humor surrounding Chandler’s father, Charles Bing, who is also known as Helena Handbasket.

There is nothing wrong with featuring drag queens and lesbian couples in a show. But it appears as though these characters were only written into the series so that they could be made fun of, and they also made the other characters uncomfortable. They never had meaningful storylines of their own.

7 Timeless: They Have Strong Bonds With Each Other

The characters on Friends are incredibly loyal to one another, which is one thing that definitely makes the show enjoyable. This series has probably taught its’ fans a lot about what it means to be a great friend to someone, since the characters are always there for each other no matter what.

RELATED: 10 Things From The Goonies That Haven’t Aged Well

Ross and Rachel are a pretty good example of this. In the episode called “The One With The Chick And The Duck,” Ross gives up a chance to be on television so that he can take Rachel to the hospital. He even helps her put on her makeup and get dressed, despite the fact that their romantic relationship seemed to be over at that point in the show.

6 Poorly: The Sexism

“The One With The Male Nanny” is one of many sexist episodes of Friends. In this episode, Ross and Rachel are looking for a nanny to keep on eye on their daughter while they are both at work, and they come across a man named Sandy, who is basically the ideal person for the job.

The only issue is that Ross is not a big fan of him because he can’t wrap his mind around the fact that a man can be a nanny. Ross even asks him questions about his sexuality. If that happened in real life, Ross could have gotten himself into some serious trouble.

5 Timeless: The Characters Evolve

People evolve as they age, and so do the characters on Friends, which is part of what makes this show so relatable. Rachel is probably the greatest example of this.

At the beginning of the show, she was a spoiled rich kid who left a guy at the altar. By the end of it, she had a successful career at Ralph Lauren, and she was also a great mother as well.

The other characters also saw a great deal of development. In season one, Chandler was afraid of commitment, but in later seasons, he married Monica. The only one who didn’t see much of an evolution was Joey, but that is because his story continued in a short-lived spin-off called Joey.

4 Poorly: The Lack Of Diversity

The cast of Friends lacked diversity, which was something that actress Aisha Tyler later addressed. Tyler played Dr. Charlie Wheeler on the show. Tyler’s character was a love interest for both Ross and Joey.

According to Tyler, lots of people were always aware that this series lacked people of color. “Even at the time, people were constantly pointing out that Friends wasn’t as diverse as the Manhattan of the real world,” said Tyler.

The ethnicity of Tyler’s character was not specified in the show’s script, which is why their decision to cast her was so important. Up until that point, there was very little diversity on the show.

3 Timeless: There Are Moments Of Sheer Comedy

There are a lot of moments in Friends that are simply hilarious, and they will never get old. It is really hard not to watch Ross get attacked by a cat in “The One With The Blackout” without at least giggling a little bit.

RELATED: Harry Potter: 10 Things From Deathly Hallows Part 2 That Haven’t Aged Well

Another really funny moment in the show is when Monica has to serve a restaurateur who is trying to find a chef for his restaurant. He had obviously been ingesting some kind of illegal substance before he arrived, which was what made the whole thing so funny. Moments like these can make anyone laugh, and they’re what make the show so fantastic.

2 Poorly: The Possessiveness And Jealousy Between Ross And Rachel

One thing that seems pretty obvious is that Ross is a very jealous and possessive character, and that is especially easy to see when he is dating Rachel. When she has a fulfilling career that makes her very happy, he complains because she is not spending as much time with him as she used to.

Ross could have just been happy for Rachel, but instead he was worried about his own selfish needs. Then when she starts working with a man named Mark, he shows up at her office so that he can spy on her to see if there is something going on between her and Mark. Ross never seems to trust Rachel.

1 Timeless: There Are A Lot Of Heartwarming Moments

Friends is full of heartwarming moments, which is one of the show’s most redeeming qualities. One of those scenes is when Rachel finds out that she is pregnant with Emma right before Monica and Chandler get married.

Another very emotional moment in the show is when Chandler speaks with a woman about him and Monica adopting her baby. He tells her that he wants to raise a child, and that he will learn to be a great dad, and he also tells her that Monica is already a mother, even though she does not have a baby. Tearjerking scenes is something this show really doesn’t lack.

NEXT: The Simpsons: 10 Storylines That Have Aged Poorly

source https://screenrant.com/friends-bad-taste-jokes-timeless/

#screenrant

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lucyreviewcy · 5 years ago

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Made in Chelsea - S1 E01

Oh that’s right, this is happening. I can’t remember what prompted this, but a couple of days ago I decided to check how much Made in Chelsea is still available on All4. Guess what, great news guys - all of it. Seventeen delicious seasons. I’m making it my weekly challenge to deep-dive into each episode hoping to find some enlightenment in this absolute masterpiece of constructed reality.

As a disclaimer: I don’t just want to underline that there are elements of this show that are pure trash. Yes, Spencer Matthews’ hair makes him look like the bad guy from an episode of Columbo. Yes, Millie Mackintosh’s inability to open her mouth enough to enunciate a word drives me nuts. Yes, the storylines ache with forced twists and endless shock hookups. All of the above are true, but you don’t need me to tell you that any more than you need me to tell you the sky is blue.

Made in Chelsea is fantastically interesting for a lot of reasons. For one, it has managed to run for seventeen seasons across the last eight years. Why? Some of the greatest British TV shows of all time have had chronically short runs, so what makes MIC so enduring?

Secondly, as it chronicles the lives of the super-rich, the show is 100% built on aspiration and jealousy. Something I often like to mention to MIC haters is that the show borrows most of its conventions and characters from Jane Austen, or for a more recent example, Richard Curtis. The characters are all financially comfortable enough that all they have to focus on in life is who they want to marry. Coupling and uncoupling is central to the society of the show. Imagine a world where all that mattered was who you were putting your lips on (a lyric stricken from the John Lennon song because it just didn’t scan properly.)

To push the envelope even further, I have to point out that these characters operate outside of the boundaries of the real world. They’re not restricted by anything - money can open any door to them, meaning they can travel anywhere, do anything and never worry about staying afloat. If you want to get fancy, Made in Chelsea is a peek at the peak of mount Olympus, and it turns out all the gods are doing is shagging and drinking G&Ts. So... pretty much what they’re doing in the Greek myths but with fur coats instead of Golden Fleeces.

My third reason I love MIC is that this show is a gosh-darned time-capsule. In the first episode, everybody’s favourite posh-boy-cum-human-shark Hugo makes a few passing references to Facebook. Made in Chelsea was born at a time when social media was in its infancy. Nobody is talking about Instagram followers or influencers yet, and Cheska’s Girl About Town blog is treated as some strange glamorous novelty. As if blogging is this amazing cool thing. It’s not cool now Cheska. Everyone has a blog. I have three blogs. Shut up about your blog.

My point is that the media landscape over the last ten years has changed, and with it our concept of what is a desirable lifestyle. A show built on aspiration is a brilliant chronicle of what we thought was cool when it was made.

Having said all of the above, I should probably mention that I also bloody love Made in Chelsea and at the very least my Mum will probably enjoy this blog. Here’s what I thought of episode one.

Episode One - “I’m just hot and I feel like shit.”

A classic Spencer Matthews quote to get the ball rolling.

After an excruciating Blade Runner-esque voice-over from Caggie Dunlop episode one starts at a party in a bar, thrown by nineteen year old (shock horror she is so young to me now) socialite Amber Atherton to promote her jewelry line. Noteworthy moment number one is that most of the characters in the show have jobs, because we no-longer aspire to somehow be so rich we don’t need to work. These are people who really are so rich they don’t need to work, but they all have jobs based on their “passions” or “creativity,” except for Spencer who is a stock-broker because he was born that way and it isn’t his fault.

Amber is the epitome of cool, even eight years on. She’s wearing barely a lick of makeup and dressed like a trendy off-duty archaeologist. Tensions develop between her and big-haired, fake-tanned Cheska, whose blog is considered “offensive” by Amber and hat-princess Rosie. Made in Chelsea is definitely a show which pits women against each other, but that is OK because I don’t get my lessons on gender equality from anything broadcast on E4. (Oh, wait... Gilmore Girls... Never mind.) Both Amber’s pared-down minimalism and Cheska’s full-blown fakery are popular aesthetic choices nearly a decade on. If anything, these style choices are demonstrated in ever more extreme ways by beauty vloggers going all-out on heavy contouring while Pinterest pushes endless “no-makeup makeup” looks at me. Amber, Cheska - there is no need to fight! You are both valid in your style choices.

There are several incredible moments in this episode, but to list them would take more words than anyone is willing to read on the subject - so I’ll be brief.

1) The moment when Spencer’s (in a relationship with Funda) asserts that he and Caggie will “probably hook up at some point” is followed by the lyrics “and the love kick-starts again...” because, you know, what is more romantic than a man suggesting that even though he’s in a relationship he’ll probs bang you some time. Thanks Spenny, you classy.

The whole exchange between Hugo and Spencer is actually brilliant because it establishes, from the off, that Spencer is a walking satire of bro-culture. Later, we even see him cut between sensitive, nerdy Francis as he tries to woo the Cagster after her “gig” (as an aside: we don’t see her sing a note but that somehow adds to the magic.) This moment is literally the uber-masculine Gaston-type kicking every character Hugh Grant played in the 90s in the balls. Perfect, it’s good to know where we stand.

2) The Charles Dickens/Jane Austen/A. A. Milne debate. This moment, a discussion between Binky (brilliant, loveable Binky) Cheska and Ollie, is iconic. Binky can’t remember who wrote Winnie the Pooh, asks if that was Charles Dickens, then says “Oh, no, that was Pride and Prejudice.”

Look its funny to watch rich people get confused by literature, OK?

3) This is my final point but it’s a biggie. The show uses one of my favourite absolutely nutso sexist tropes: “Woman refuses to have sex with her significant other while he is all gross and sweaty ERGO she is a stick in the mud and no fun at all.”

For another prime example of this trope, see Julia Louis-Dreyfus in National Lampoons’ Christmas Vacation.

This trope is utterly mad, but again - at least the show is spelling out where Spencer stands. He’s an asshole. The show is telling us that he’s an asshole. And yet for some reason our protagonist whose full name I presume is Cagoule Elizabeth Dunlop, is pursuing him.

What?

Why would anyone pursue a guy who makes it clear from his first entrance into the narrative that he’s a walking catastrophe of stereotypical masculinity and misogynist values???

And here we come back to Jane Austen, and the basic fact that Mr Darcy is a GARBAGE PERSON. He’s straight up rude to Elizabeth and we know he’s sexist because it’s the past, and yet for some reason...we root for them. I’m genuinely interested to re-watch this narrative unfold, because surely the show doesn’t expect me to want Caggie to get with Spencer? Right?

There we have it, the first episode of Made in Chelsea unpacked for you like a backpack at the end of term, full of hidden treasures, trash and merits you had forgotten about. Tune in next time for more lukewarm takes on telly.

#made in chelsea #retrospective #review #from the start #all4 #2011 #media studies #jane austen #caggie dunlop #spencer matthews #mic

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tardisgirlepic · 7 years ago

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Ch. 3: “The Eaters of Light” Analysis Doctor Who S10.10: Growing Up, Love & Separation, the Doctor’s Fall

<- Read previous chapter

Growing Up as a Theme

One of the themes of “The Eaters of Light” was about growing up, which can be tied to the cowardice theme from last week’s episode, “The Empress of Mars.” Growing up can be metaphorical or literal.

Coming of age, facing fears, taking responsibility have all been part of the growing up theme. In “The Eaters of Light,” we have Roman soldiers who are no older than 18 years. The Picts were children, too. Where were all the adults? While 2nd century Roman Britain had different standards of age and fighting in wars, I’ll apply the coming of age, facing fears, and taking responsibility to them.

Last week, we had Colonel Godsacre stepping up and facing his fear of leadership to take responsibility.

“Amy’s Choice”

Amy and Rory had an interesting conversation in “Amy’s Choice.” Rory, Amy, and the Doctor are dealing with the Dream Lord and the dream in the TARDIS. However, Rory wants the life where they are settled and have a baby. He was happy in the dream where he was a doctor and Amy was pregnant, but she wasn’t. Rory’s feeling insecure that Amy wants to stay with the Doctor in the TARDIS.

RORY: You ran off with another man. AMY: Not in that way. RORY: It was the night before our wedding. AMY: We're in a time machine. It can be the night before our wedding for as long as we want. RORY: We have to grow up eventually. AMY: Says who?

I did not expect Amy’s answer about growing up.

“Human Nature” & “The Family of Blood”

The 10th Doctor, playing the 24th turned himself human to hide, and now he doesn’t want to go back to being a Time Lord. At the end of “The Family of Blood,” the Doctor wants to give the beings who are after him the watch with his Time Lord consciousness, so he can remain human:

DOCTOR: I should have thought of it before. I can give them this. Just the watch. Then they can leave and I can stay as I am. MARTHA: You can't do that!

DOCTOR: If they want the Doctor, they can have him.

MARTHA: He'll never let you do it.

DOCTOR: If they get what they want, then, then

JOAN: Then it all ends in destruction. I never read to the end, but those creatures would live forever to breed and conquer, for war across the stars for every child. Martha, Timothy, would you leave us alone, please?

(Martha and Latimer leave. Joan hugs a sobbing Doctor. The bombardment on the village continues as Martha and Latimer sit outside, then she hugs him.)

JOAN: If I could do this instead of you, then I would. I'd hoped. But my hopes aren't important.

DOCTOR: He won't love you.

The Doctor wants to stay human, so he can love Joan, marry, and have a family. This suggests the 12th Doctor is having this problem. In fact, in the Doctor’s living quarters, there is a bowl of apples (yellow arrow) and a snake (white arrow) in the background, showing the temptations of the Doctor as a human in the Garden of End metaphor. The Roman crosses represent the 12th Doctor or multiple, thereof. The human is the imposter and must fall. And that foreshadows what is coming.

The 12th Doctor

Missy and the Master are examples of what the Doctor can become, and with the mirrors, that’s a scary thought. The Doctor needs to face his fear of himself, which resulted in his memory wipe.

The 1st Doctor & Susan

Susan represents a coming of age. She was becoming a young woman and developed a relationship with David Campbell. Wanting to see her have a normal life, the 1st Doctor left her with David in the 22nd century with a promise.

DOCTOR: Believe me, my dear, your future lies with David, and not with a silly old buffer like me. One day, I shall come back. Yes, I shall come back. Until then, there must be no regrets, no tears, no anxieties. Just go forward in all your beliefs, and prove to me that I am not mistaken in mine. Goodbye, Susan, goodbye, my dear.

Love & Separation as a Theme

Love and separation come up in “The Eaters of Light” with Kar leaving her brother behind to guard the gateway to another dimension and fight the Eaters of Light. However, love and separation has been a theme for a long time. There’s Rose with the 9th Doctor and then the 10th. Sarah Jane, too, complained to the 10th Doctor, how he as the 4th Doctor just dropped her off in Aberdeen and never came back.

Regarding River, we first heard about her feeling of separation back in “The Name of the Doctor.” Of course, there is THORS, TRODM, and the 12th Doctor losing both Clara and River. Season 10 is no exception. Not only is Clara’s absence still a problem, but Bill, too, lost Heather, and then there’s Penny.

There’s also the open question of Bill’s mother.

And there are other examples.

We saw above how love and separation goes all the way back to the 1st Doctor and Susan. I’m betting with the theme coming up so much that we will see her, either in the finale or the Christmas Special. This seems like such a great family-oriented reunion, which would be fantastic for Christmas.

I especially believe this theme will come up in the finale and maybe Christmas special because Kar and Ban aren’t the only references in the episode to love and separation. There are several important external allusions, which lead to the expulsion from paradise.

The Opening: Visions of Outlander with Its Doctor Who Connection

The opening of “The Eaters of Light” seems so similar to the series Outlander, where Claire goes to Scotland and encounters ancient Celtic, stone monuments, called standing stones that broadcast sound, reminiscent of the Celtic music we hear in “The Eaters of Light.”

If you are not familiar with Outlander, it’s a series of novels that has been turned into a British-American TV series. While I watch the TV series, I’ve only read the 1st novel. Wikipedia says of the novels:

Outlander (published in the United Kingdom as Cross Stitch) is the first in a series of eight historical multi-genre novels by Diana Gabaldon. Published in 1991, it focuses on the Second World War-era nurse Claire Randall, who travels through time to 18th century Scotland and finds adventure and romance with the dashing Jamie Fraser.

From the beginning of the plot summary:

In 1946, after working apart during the Second World War, British Army nurse Claire Randall and her husband Frank, a history professor, go on a second honeymoon to Inverness, Scotland. Frank conducts research into his family history and Claire goes plant-gathering near standing stones on the hill of Craigh na Dun. She faints when investigating a buzzing noise near the stones; upon waking, she encounters Frank's ancestor, Captain Jack Randall.

When Claire, an Englishwoman, investigates the buzzing noise, she touches one of the ancient Celtic stones and gets transported back to Scotland in 1743. She finds herself in the middle of a skirmish between rebel Scottish Highlanders and Redcoats.

After various events and several hardships, she marries Jamie. While she still wears Frank’s ring on one hand, maintaining hopes of getting back to him, she wears Jamie’s on the other. Because Frank’s ancestor the captain was a rapist and sadist, who treated the Scots as sub-humans, it does color Claire’s situation. Encountering the captain on several occasions, she witnessed his behavior first hand. Jamie has had several encounters, too, some showing the captain in a most sadistic light.

Claire embraces most of the Scottish culture and comes to see the British as occupiers, another form of usurpation. At one point, we did see her back in the present with a daughter by Jamie. So Claire is living in 2 worlds. She loves both men, but love has split them apart.

Gabaldon really liked DW’s 2nd Doctor companion Jamie Frasier, so she named her romantic lead character after him. Doing extensive historical research for the series, she has become a noted expert on 18th century Scotland. Her novels center on the time period of British occupation of Scottish lands, along with the skirmishes and events leading up to the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. Outlander gives us another usurpation reference, too.

According to HistoryExtra.com:

The 1745 Jacobite Rebellion was a turning point in British history. Believing the British throne to be his birthright, Charles Edward Stuart, aka ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’, planned to invade Great Britain along with his Jacobite followers and remove the Hanoverian ‘usurper’ George II. Yet, argues Dr Jacqueline Riding, the reality of the ’45 continues to be obscured by fiction and fables.

…

In June 1745, Charles Edward Stuart (b1720) had one key aim: regaining the thrones his grandfather, the Roman Catholic convert James VII of Scotland and II of England and Ireland, had lost in 1688–90 to his nephew and son-in-law William of Orange (who reigned as William III). This ‘glorious’ revolution had confirmed a Protestant succession, in a predominantly Protestant Great Britain, which, from 1714, was embodied in the Hanoverian dynasty.

The term “usurper” depends on which side of the rebellion one is on. The English called Charles “The Young Pretender.” The problem comes back to religion, the English Reformation, and Henry VIII’s break with the Catholic Church.

Clearly, there is a theme of love and separation, as well as occupation, in both “The Eaters of Light” and in Outlander.

In fact, Kar pours out her heart out about the usurpation by the Romans, which in some sense reminds me of River in THORS:

KAR: Let me tell you about the Romans. They are the robbers of this world. When they've thieved everything on land, they'll rob the sea. If their enemies are rich, they'll take all they have. If their enemies are poor, they'll make slaves of them. Their work is robbery, slaughter, plunder. They do this work and they call it empire. They make deserts and they call it peace.

The Doctor, having both Roman and Scottish connections, gets another ear full. Clearly, the usurpation applies but most likely the 2 worlds for the Doctor are represented by the 10th Doctor’s dilemma of human vs. being a Time Lord.

We saw the dilemma with Bill and Heather no longer being human.

The Subtle Knife

When I watched “The Eaters of Light” with my daughter, she mentioned that it seemed similar to The Subtle Knife, a young-adult fantasy novel, written by British author Philip Pullman and published in 1997. I’ve never read the book, or any of the 3 books in Pullman’s series His Dark Materials. However, from what my daughter said, “The Eaters of Light” referenced it, so I checked it out.

It’s much like the Outlander series in that someone jumps into a portal and enters a different world, so to speak. According to Wikipedia, in the second novel in the series:

Twelve-year-old Will Parry cares for his mentally ill mother in Oxford. When he accidentally kills an intruder, he runs away and discovers a portal to a parallel universe. In the seemingly deserted city of Cittàgazze, he encounters 12-year-old Lyra Silvertongue and her dæmon Pantalaimon, who arrived via a bridge in the sky created by her father, Lord Asriel.

The editorial review on Amazon says

As the novel opens, Will's enemies will do anything for information about his missing father, a soldier and Arctic explorer who has been very much airbrushed from the official picture. Now Will must get his mother into safe seclusion and make his way toward Oxford, which may hold the key to John Parry's disappearance. But en route and on the lam from both the police and his family's tormentors, he comes upon a cat with more than a mouse on her mind: "She reached out a paw to pat something in the air in front of her, something quite invisible to Will." What seems to him a patch of everyday Oxford conceals far more: "The cat stepped forward and vanished." Will, too, scrambles through and into another oddly deserted landscape--one in which children rule and adults (and felines) are very much at risk. Here in this deathly silent city by the sea, he will soon have a dustup with a fierce, flinty little girl: "Her expression was a mixture of the very young--when she first tasted the cola--and a kind of deep, sad wariness." Soon Will and Lyra (and, of course, her dæmon, Pantalaimon) uneasily embark on a great adventure and head into greater tragedy.

Will and Lyra are forced to retrieve a special knife that has the ability to cut into other worlds and through any material. So here’s another reference to a doorway and a world ruled by children, like we saw in “The Eaters of Light.” Will and Lyra fall in love, but staying in a parallel universe that isn’t their own threatens the destruction of that universe. So Will can’t stay in the end.

This sounds similar to what happened with Bill and Heather at the end of “The Pilot.” And the song from the episode “Love Will Tear Us Apart” seems highly appropriate.

Will’s father being a soldier and explorer may give us some information about the Doctor, but not having read the series, I’m going to leave it at this. If you’ve read the book and have some ideas, let me know.

The Doctor’s Fall: Paradise Lost & His Dark Materials

Pullman took the title of the series, His Dark Materials, from English poet John Milton’s epic poem, Paradise Lost, first published in 1667. According to Wikipedia:

The poem concerns the biblical story of the Fall of Man: the temptation of Adam and Eve by the fallen angel Satan and their expulsion from the Garden of Eden. Milton's purpose, stated in Book I, is to "justify the ways of God to men."

Pullman’s series, from what I gather, is a reimagining of Paradise Lost for teenagers. In fact, His Dark Materials comes from Paradise Lost, along with the title of his first book of the series, The Golden Compass.

The continuing theme of expulsion from paradise, which we’ve seen multiple times in Season 10 regarding the Doctor, is foreshadowing the Doctor’s fall.

Anyway, His Dark Materials is a really interesting phrase, especially since we saw the record label in “The Pilot” that the Doctor had is a famous trademark: His Master’s Voice, shown below.

Tip: When 2 pieces of subtext sound similar, especially with odd spellings or phrasing, they may very well be related. This is an exception to our rule requiring 3 occurrences to make a pattern.

I didn’t have time in “The Pilot” analysis to explain more about the label because it’s part of a complicated set of metaphors. The metaphors were very relevant to the “Smile” analysis, so I explained more about the label there. Long story short, it leads to the parody of the painting The Creation of the World and the Expulsion from Paradise.

Since this all lines up in various ways, I have no doubt my daughter is right about The Subtle Knife connection to “The Eaters of Light.” There’s much more that connects that we’ll examine below.

The Fallen Angel Theme & the Legend of the Blue Box

I’ve wanted to talk about the fallen angel theme for a long time, but I haven’t because of time. However, I need to now, especially because this comes up in multiple ways in “The Eaters of Light.” And it ties back into several other things we’ve examined. The Vestal Virgin 2nd Class and the angel reference, as well as the demon and sainted physician from the Legend of the Blue Box.

The big reference to Satan in DW is in the 10th Doctor Ood story “The Satan Pit.” However, it’s Satan’s name “Lucifer” that is of interest here. I want to draw a distinction between Satan and Lucifer, which I’ll explain in a few minutes.

The Name Lucifer & DW Characters with Derivative Names

Lucifer literally is "the morning star, bearer of light," derived from luc-, lux "light" and -fer "bearing."

According to Merriam Webster’s Word Central,

What we sometimes call "the morning star" is really the planet Venus. The Romans called it Lucifer, meaning "bearer of light," because it appeared in the sky just before sunrise. So when, in the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah says, in describing the downfall of the king of Babylon, "How are you fallen from heaven, O Morning Star, son of dawn," the "Morning Star" became Lucifer in the Latin translation. Early Christians thought that Isaiah was also referring to the devil, who had likewise "fallen from heaven." Thus the word Lucifer came to be applied to the devil.

Lucifer was not always seen as the devil. In fact, according to Wikipedia, 2 bishops of the early Christian Church bore the name Lucifer. It goes on to say

In Latin, the word is applied to John the Baptist and is used as a title of Jesus himself in several early Christian hymns. The morning hymn Lucis largitor splendide of Hilary contains the line: "Tu verus mundi lucifer" (you are the true light bringer of the world).

In fact, it’s only later that Lucifer came to be used as a proper name:

Later Christian tradition came to use the Latin word for "morning star," lucifer, as a proper name ("Lucifer") for the devil; as he was before his fall. As a result, "'Lucifer' has become a by-word for Satan / the Devil in the church and in popular literature", as in Dante Alighieri's Inferno, Joost van den Vondel's Lucifer and John Milton's Paradise Lost. However, the Latin word never came to be used almost exclusively, as in English, in this way, and was applied to others also, including Jesus. The image of a morning star fallen from the sky is generally believed among scholars to have a parallel in Canaanite mythology.

I’m making a distinction, and I can best show you why with an example. The Doctor going hell bent through the universe and causing its destruction could easily be seen as Satan. However, what if the Doctor is in a universe, like alternate-Donna in “Turn Left,” that needs to die to restore the real universe? He could be seen as Satan in one and a savior in another.

Because DW uses derivative names with the Latin roots luc- and lux, they relate to the name Lucifer. For now, I don’t want to apply judgment of good or evil to these characters. I can’t think of any instance where people with the Latin roots luc- and lux in their names are not also mirrors or dark mirrors of the Doctor.

Here are just a few examples of characters related to Lucifer.

Lucius in “The Eaters of Light” Lucius, for example in “The Eaters of Light,” comes from the Latin root lux and the Latin verb lucere "to shine." So he has a connection to Lucifer. In fact Lucius was also called “Granddad,” which Bill questioned

THRACIUS: Why are you even listening to her, Grandad? LUCIUS: Because no one else is saying anything. We need a plan. A real commander would have a plan. BILL: Why did he call you Grandad? LUCIUS: They always call me Grandad. I'm in command. I'm the oldest one left. BILL: How old are you? LUCIUS: Eighteen.

“Granddad” is a metaphor for the Doctor, so Lucius is a mirror of the Doctor. He is foreshadowing what is going to happen.

He integrates in a way with Kar to stand together to fight the bigger monster, although it’s a losing battle. It’s the Doctor joining his duality together.

“The Fires of Pompeii” & Lucius Petrus Dextrus Lucius Petrus Dextrus was the Chief Augur of Pompeii in 79 AD, shown below, along with Peter Capaldi’s character Lobus Caecilius and his wife Metella. He supported the Cult of Vulcan, who wanted to convert the population of the world into more Pyroviles.

Lucius has the gift of prophecy, so he is a dark mirror of the Doctor.

BTW, I’m not sure if I mentioned a wolf connection regarding Caecilius. Lobus, while meaning lobe, pod, or husk in Latin, is very close to the Spanish word for wolf: lobo.

CAL: Charlotte Abigail Lux, “Silence in the Library” & “Forest of the Dead” We know CAL is a mirror of the Doctor, and her last name tells us this, too. Not only that, but Charlotte Abigail Lux’s father, Felman Lux, built the Library for her. Felman is an interesting name, especially when we are talking about the Fall of Man and the fall of the Doctor.

Strackman Lux was the grandson of Felman Lux, and the person who led River’s expedition into the Library. He said it took 3 generations to figure out how to get into the sealed Library. He represents the 3rd, which corresponds to a triad of Doctors. Strackman, shown below from a TARDIS Wikia image, reminds me of Strax with that suit, and the name is really close.

“The Rebel Flesh” & “The Almost People”

Jennifer Lucas in “The Rebel Flesh” and “The Almost People” has luc- in her name. In fact, Lucas is a cognate of Lucius.

In Conclusion

There is a lot of overlap of themes in this chapter of growing up; taking responsibility, which means getting kicked out of paradise; and falling. I’m hanging onto my hat for the wild ride of how all of this foreshadows the finale.

#doctor who #twelfth doctor #bill potts #nardole #clara oswald #river song #eleventh doctor #amy pond #rory williams #the eaters of light

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coffeewithjodi · 8 years ago

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“ dunno if being in my own world helps or hurts but i love it here”

Set the scene. Okay. Sitting at the bar sipping on a cold blue moon wondering why i’m even here. I could be at home drinking beer in my pajamas with a face mask on. Maybe its the scenery the loud obnoxious laughs of men who think there taking home the girl when in fact the girl just wanted the free beer. Or maybe i just want companionship for the night bc the world is a fucked up place and two people agreeing to go back to his or her bedroom and have sex and never see each other again sounds like a perfect distraction. The bar is full of hopeless romantics and realists. The night is young and one of these poor suckers will get lucky. A tall lanky guy with a dimple strolls up to me and says Hi stopping my train of thought. I say hi and immediately knows hes one of the hopeless romantics hes smiling at me like he just won the lottery he reeks of romance. I finish my beer, smile and say “ i’m not a nice girl”.

5 (weirdest) things about me

1. introvert n extrovert

I’m an introvert i love being by myself. Sometimes, i want to cave inside my room and admire the tenderness of the darkness that surrounds me but there are days i want to go out and explore every corner of the world. I guess that’s the Sagittarius in me. I’m so detached at times and simply just live for myself. I’m the girl that thinks shes surrounded by a bunch of idiots 99.9 percent of the time so i find solace in my books.i can devour book after books learning so much about myself and the world. Books r true magic as tea is a witches poison of niceness it just makes everything better. But i’m also the girl who loves great conversations and interesting people. U can usually find me in the center of the room cracking a joke or simply just being a rebellious kid adult who thinks there invincible and the world is at there fingertips. Stumbling in my house high or drunk thanking the saints i didn’t lose my keys and drop to my bed and fall into a deep slumber with a smile on my face. Being in your twenties is such a roller coaster of emotions my restless heart wont let me stay down for too long it’s always knocking at the door. But when people has exhausted me and my atlas hands need a rest i go home bc my soul belongs to words and books.

2. Coffee shop’s r an obsession

Don’t get me wrong i love drinking coffee in my own house but its a different vibe in coffee shops. The wooden exterior and the smell of coffee beans is so inviting. The restless eyes coming to life with every sip and hush voices planning out there day. I love sitting by the windows and watching people go past. Imagining there life story, where they going and r they truly living. Sitting down and looking out it seems time has slowed and i can truly enjoy my surroundings. Bc nowadays i feel likes everybody’s got there shit together but me. But i can’t help but wonder if someone is looking at me through a coffee shop window thinking wow that girl looks happy.

3. I’m a day drinker

In order to survive college with your sanity still intact u need beer and a joint in hand. Stress is a killer and i for one don’t want to graduate with wrinkles or grey hair. I know understand why adults drink all the time life’s a bitch in many forms and i rather not give a fuck when the devil shows its face.

4. Charles Bukowski is the love of my life

I discovered Charles Bukowski in my freshman year of college and ever since hes been always on my mind. Bukowski was an asshole and a drunk who kept shallow relationships and never trusted women. Hes a rude misogynist but underneath that there are moment's when he shows remorse for the terrible way human beings treat one another. He did not really like people bc his fear of being hurt by others. Life is difficult and it fucks u over more than once but it can be beautiful and that’s what Charles Bukowski shows in his books. I love how he was brutally honest and so raw that it was painful. Poems like Bukowski or people who fit this bill such as drinking buddies, are good for certain times and places, however u cant linger there. People all have the same ugliness inside of them and its reassuring to know that something beautiful can come from it. I’m like the women Bukowski all i need is some bourbon and a whore in my bed.

5. Aliens is real

I grew up watching star wars, star trek and doctor who so i believe we are not alone. As a little girl i was so engrossed in by the creatures and the spaceships and wanting to be a captain of my own vessel. It was my wanderlust heart that related to captain Kirk when he wanted to travel and learn and see what else is out there. I sit in cafes and daydream of the doctor noticing me and whisks me into a crazy journey where i’m running through time and fly’in in the Tardis. But in reality humans don’t deserve to travel were destroying our planet so why should we be able leave and destroy another.

” So slow down and enjoy life because one day we’re all going to end up in the ground and that’ll be it, we’ll be gone”

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happyweddingblogs · 4 years ago

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150 Funny Marriage Quotes for Newlyweds

If you are looking for some hilarious marriage quotes to add fun element to your wedding, then this post is for you. Here we are sharing 150 funny marriage quotes for you that you can use in your wedding invites, wedding signage, and wedding social media updates.

Source: Happy Wedding App

Let’s get started…….

1. “The secret of a happy marriage remains a secret.” —Henny Youngman

2. “The trouble with some women is that they get all excited about nothing – and then marry him.” —Cher

3. “Love is one long sweet dream and marriage is the alarm clock!” — Zeenat Essa

4. “In olden times, sacrifices were made at the altar, a practice which is still very much practiced.” —Helen Rowland

5. “Many people spend more time in planning the wedding than they do in planning the marriage.” — Zig Ziglar TC mark

6. “Before you marry a person you should first make them use a computer with slow Internet to see who they really are.” — Will Ferrell

7. “The most important four words for a successful marriage: ‘I’ll do the dishes.’” — Anonymous

8. “By all means, marry. If you get a good wife, you’ll become happy; if you get a bad one, you’ll become a philosopher.” — Socrates

9. “When a man opens a car door for his wife, it’s either a new car or a new wife.” — Prince Philip

10. “I love being married. It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.” — Rita Rudner

11. “Love is a sweet dream and marriage is the alarm clock.” — Jewish Proverb

12. “Men marry women with the hope they will never change. Women marry men with the hope they will change. Invariably they are both disappointed.” — Albert Einstein

13. “There is nothing in the world like the devotion of a married woman. It is a thing no married man knows anything about.” — Oscar Wilde

14. “All men make mistakes, but married men find out about them sooner.” — Red Skelton

15. “Take care of him. And make him feel important. And if you can do that, you’ll have a happy and wonderful marriage. Like two out of every ten couples.” — Neil Simon

16. “Love, n. A temporary insanity curable by marriage.” — Ambrose Bierce

17. “Marriage is like a deck of cards. All you need in the beginning is two hearts and a diamond. After 10 years you need a club and spade.” — Carrie

18. “Any intelligent woman who reads the marriage contract, and then goes into it, deserves all the consequences.” —Isadora Duncan

19. “A good marriage would be between a blind wife and a deaf husband.” — Michel de Montaigne

20. “Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, half shut afterwards.” — Benjamin Franklin

21. “A guy knows he’s in love when he loses interest in his car for a couple of days.” — NOT A BOOK

22. “The best way to get most husbands to do something is to suggest that perhaps they’re too old to do it.” — Ann Bancroft

23. “Marriage must incessantly contend with a monster that devours everything: familiarity.” — Honore de Balzac

24. “A good marriage would be between a blind wife and a deaf husband.” — Michel de Montaigne

25. “Marrying a man is like buying something you’ve been admiring for a long time in a shop window. You may love it when you get it home, but it doesn’t always go with everything else in the house.” —Jean Kerr

26. “To keep your marriage brimming, with love in the loving cup, whenever you’re wrong, admit it; whenever you’re right, shut up.” — Ogden Nash

27. “I almost had a psychic girlfriend but she left me before we met.” — Steven Wright

28. “Men who have a pierced ear are better prepared for marriage – they’ve experienced pain and bought jewelry.” — Rita Rudner

29. “Marriage is when a man loses his bachelor’s degree and woman gets her master’s degree.” — Rama Kochhar

30. “When you have a baby, love is automatic, when you get married, love is earned.” —Marie Osmond

31. “Marriage – a book of which the first chapter is written in poetry and the remaining chapters in prose.” — Beverley Nichols

32. “Marriage is an adventure, like going to war.” — G. K. Chesterton

33. “Many a man in love with a dimple makes the mistake of marrying the whole girl.” — Stephen Leacock

34. “Marriage has no guarantees. If that’s what you’re looking for, go live with a car battery.” — Erma Bombeck

35. “All marriages are happy. It’s the living together afterward that causes all the trouble.” — Raymond Hull

36. “Marriage is really tough because you have to deal with feelings … and lawyers.” — Richard Pryor

37. “If you want to know how your girl will treat you after marriage, just listen to her talking to her little brother.” — Sam Levenson

38. “They dream in courtship, but in wedlock wake.” — Alexander Pope

39. “Marriage is an attempt to solve problems together which you didn’t even have when you were on your own.” — Eddie Cantor

40. “An ideal wife is any woman who has an ideal husband.” — Booth Tarkington

41. “Never get married in college; it’s hard to get a start if a prospective employer finds you’ve already made one mistake.” — Elbert Hubbard

42. “Love is telling someone their hair extensions are showing.” — Natasha Leggero

43. “I love being married. It’s so great to find one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life” — Anonymous

44. “I married beneath me, all women do.” — Nancy Astor

45. “Women marry men hoping they will change. Men marry women hoping they will not.” — Albert Einstein

46. “In my house I’m the boss, my wife is just the decision maker.” — Woody Allen

47. “Marriage is like a game of chess, except the board is flowing water, the pieces are made of smoke and no move you make will have any effect on the outcome.” — Jerry Seinfeld

48. “Before marriage, a girl has to make love to a man to hold him. After marriage, she has to hold him to make love to him.” — Marilyn Monroe

49. “Before I got married I had six theories about raising children; now, I have six children and no theories.” — John Wilmot

50. “Marriage is a difficult project. When seven years have passed and all your body’s cells have been replaced, you’re meant to experience that seven-year itch.” — Yoko Ono

Also See:

Best 75 Wedding Love Quotes

51. “You can’t buy love on eBay.” — Anonymous

52. “Happiness is the china shop; love is the bull.” — H.L. Mencken

53. “Always get married in the morning. That way if it doesn’t work out, you haven’t wasted the whole day.” — Mickey Rooney

54. “My wife and I were happy for twenty years. Then we met.” — Rodney Dangerfield

55. “Marry a man your own age; As your beauty fades, so will his eyesight.” — Phyllis Diller

56. “Before marriage, a man declares that he would lay down his life to serve you; after marriage, he won’t even lay down his newspaper to talk to you.” — Helen Rowland

57. “Marriage is a wonderful invention: then again, so is the bicycle repair kit.” — Billy Connolly

58. “The only mistake for which people are congratulated is marriage.” — Ratna Deep

59. “More marriages might survive if the partners realized that sometimes the better comes after the worse.” — Doug Larson

60. “Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love.” — Albert Einstein

61. “Marriage has no guarantees. If that’s what you’re looking for, go live with a car battery.” — Erma Bombeck

62. “Before you marry a person, you should first make them use a computer with slow Internet service to see who they really are.” — Will Ferrell

63. “You can’t buy love, but you can pay heavily for it.” — Henny Youngman

64. “The brain is the most outstanding organ. It works 24/7, 365 from birth until you fall in love.” —Sophie Monroe

65. “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” — Charles M. Schulz

66. “Marriage is like a phone call in the night: first the ring, and then you wake up.” — Evelyn Hendrickson

67. “True love is like seeing ghosts; we all talk about it, but few of us have ever seen one.” — La Rochefoucauld

68. “True love comes quietly, without banners or flashing lights. If you hear bells, get your ears checked.” — Erich Segal

69. “Where love is the case, the doctor is an ass.” — English Proverb

70. “The best thing to ever happen to marriage is the pause-live-TV button.” — Rick Reilly

71. “I love you no matter what you do, but do you have to do so much of it?” — Jean Illsley Clarke

72. “A man is already halfway in love with any woman who listens to him.” — Brendan Francis

73. “Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, half shut afterwards.” — Benjamin Franklin

74. “Romantic love is mental illness. But it’s a pleasurable one.” — Fran Lebowitz

75. “Besides chocolate, you’re my favourite.” — Anonymous

76. “Honesty is the key to a relationship. If you can fake that, you’re in.” — Richard Jeni

77. “Marriage is like watching the color of leaves in the fall; ever changing and more stunningly beautiful with each passing day.” — Fawn Weaver 78. “Love is a lot like a backache, it doesn’t show up on X-rays, but you know it’s there.” — George Burns

79. “Love is an ocean of emotions entirely surrounded by expenses.” — Thomas Dewar

80. “My wife and I tried to breakfast together, but we had to stop or our marriage would have been wrecked.” — Winston Churchill

81. “I’m going to get married again because I’m more mature now, and I need some kitchen stuff.” —Wendy Liebman

82. “Love is a lot like a backache; It doesn’t show up on X-Rays, But you know it’s there.” — George Burns

83. “We always hold hands. If I let go, she shops” — Henny Youngman

84. “They say love is blind…and marriage is an institution. Well, I’m not ready for an institution for the blind just yet.” — Mae West

85. “I love you like a fat kid loves cake.” — Quote from 50 Cents

86. “Men aren’t necessities, they’re luxuries.” — Cher

87. “What’s the best way to get your husband to remember your anniversary? Get married on his birthday.” — Cindy Garner

88. “I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury.” — Groucho Marx

89. “They say true love hides behind every corner, I must be walking in circles.” — Anonymous

90. “Trust your husband, adore your husband, and get as much as you can in your own name.” — Joan Rivers

91. “If you want to sacrifice the admiration of many men for the criticism of one, go ahead, get married.” — Katharine Hepburn

92. “My wife and I have the secret to making a marriage last. Two times a week, we go to a nice restaurant, a little wine, good food. She goes on tuesdays, I go Fridays.” — Henry Youngman

93. “If you want your wife to listen to you, then talk to another woman; she will be all ears.” — Sigmund Freud

94. “Marriage is like a walk in the park… Jurassic Park.” — Anonymous

95. “For marriage to be a success, every woman and every man should have her and his own bathroom. The end.” — Catherine Zeta-Jones

96. “Love is like war: easy to begin but very hard to stop.” — H. L. Mencken

97. “Before we got married, I caught her in my arms. Now I catch her in my pockets.” — Anonymous

98. “My wife, Mary, and I have been married for forty-seven years, and not once have we had an argument serious enough to consider divorce; murder, yes, but divorce, never.” — Jack Benny

99. “Love is the answer, but while you’re waiting for the answer, sex raises some pretty good questions.” — Woody Allen

100. “I believe that sex is one of the most beautiful, natural, wholesome things that money can buy.” — Steve Martin

101. “Remember that creating a successful marriage is like farming: You have to start over again every morning.” — H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

102. “Love: A temporary insanity curable by marriage.” — Ambrose Bierce

103. “Marriage: A legal or religious ceremony by which two persons of the opposite sex solemnly agree to harass and spy on each other for ninety-nine years, or until death do them join.” — Elbert Hubbard

104. “The last time I was inside a woman was when I went to the Statue of Liberty.” — Woody Allen

105. “Marriage marks the end of many short follies – being one long stupidity.” — Friedrich Nietzsche

106. “An archeologist is the best husband any woman can have; the older she gets, the more interested he is in her.” — Agatha Christie

107 “I love you even when I’m really, really hungry” — Anonymous

108. “Love is an electric blanket with somebody else in control of the switch.” — Cathy Carlyle

109. “The four most important words in any marriage…”I’ll do the dishes.” — Anonymous

110. “Sex without love is an empty experience, but as empty experiences go, it’s one of the best.” —Woody Allen

111. “All marriages are happy. It’s trying to live together afterwards that causes all the problems.” —Shelley Winters

112. “If love is the answer, could you please rephrase the question?” — Lily Tomlin

113. “Marriage is the bond between a person who never remembers anniversaries and another who never forgets them.” — Ogden Nash

114. “Marriage is like vitamins: We supplement each other’s minimum daily requirements.” —Anonymous

115. “Love is a grave mental disease.” — Plato

116. “Marrying a man is like buying something you’ve been admiring for a long time in a shop window. You may love it when you get it home, but it doesn’t always go with everything else.” — Jean Kerr

117. “A man in love is not complete until he is married. Then he is finished.” — Zsa Zsa Gabor

118. “Love is a fire. But whether it is going to warm your heart or burn down your house, you can never tell.” — Joan Crawford

119. “Love is not having to hold in your farts anymore.” — Bree Luckey

120. “When you see a married couple walking down the street, the one that’s a few steps ahead is the one that’s mad.” — Helen Rowland

121. “It’s been so long since I made love, I can’t even remember who gets tied up.” — Joan Rivers

122. “Love is the seventh sense, which destroys all the other six senses.” — Anonymous

123. “Marriage is not just spiritual communion, it is also remembering to take out the trash.” — Joyce Brothers

124. “A good marriage is one where each partner secretly suspects they got the better deal.” — Anonymous

125. “People should fall in love with their eyes closed.” — Andy Warhol

126. “The husband who wants a happy marriage should learn to keep his mouth shut and his checkbook open.” — Groucho Marx

127. “In marriage do thou be wise: prefer the person before money virtue before beauty, the mind before the body, then thou hast a wife, a friend, a companion, a second self.” — William Penn

128. “Love is blind but marriage is a real eye-opener” — Pauline Thomason

129. “Love doesn’t drop on you unexpectedly; you have to give off signals, sort of like an amateur radio operator.” — Helen Gurley Brown

130. “Love is like a tornado, picks you up off your feet and sometimes takes half your house.” — Anonymous

131. “Marriage is a great institution for those who like institutions.” — Tommy Dewar

132. “I know that somewhere in the Universe exists my perfect soulmate – but looking for her is much more difficult than just staying at home and ordering another pizza.” — Alf Whit

133. “My most brilliant achievement was my ability to persuade my wife to marry Me.” — winston-churchill

134. “If I get married, I want to be very married.” — Audrey Hepburn

135. “It is impossible to love and be wise.” — Francis Bacon

136. “Marriage is our last, best chance to grow up.” — Joseph Barth

137. “Marriage is a risk; I think it’s a great and glorious risk, as long as you embark on the adventure in the same spirit.” — Cate Blanchett

138. “People who throw kisses are hopelessly lazy.” — Bob Hope

139. “To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.” — Mark Twain

140. “The highest happiness on earth is marriage.” — William Lyon Phelps

141. “What the world really needs is more love and less paper work.” — Pearl Bailey

142. “One should believe in marriage as in the immortality of the soul.” — Honoré de Balzac

143. “Marriage is not just spiritual communion; it is also remembering to take out the trash.” — Joyce Brothers

144. “Love is spending the rest of your life with someone you want to kill & not doing it because you’d miss them!” — Anonymous

145. “A good marriage is that in which each appoints the other the guardian of his solitude, and shows him this confidence, the greatest in his power to bestow.” — Rainer Maria Rilke

146. “Men make the highs higher and the lows more frequent.” — Anonymous

147. “To keep your marriage brimming, with love in the loving cup, whenever you’re wrong, admit it; whenever you’re right, shut up.” — Ogden Nash

148. “Husbands are like wine, they take a long time to mature.” — From Letters to Juliet

149. “Marriage is a workshop….. Where husband works and wife shops.” — Anonymous

150. “Husbands and wives are so irritating. But without them, who would we blame for misplacing our socks?” — Janet Periat

AND FINALLY……

So, these are the funniest marriage quotes which you can use in your wedding. These marriage quotes will simply add to the fun part of your wedding. You can even make your wedding speech hilarious with these funny quotes on marriage.

Happy Wedding…..

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njawaidofficial · 7 years ago

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“Billions” Is The Best Show About The Worst Kind Of Masculinity

https://styleveryday.com/2018/04/16/billions-is-the-best-show-about-the-worst-kind-of-masculinity/

“Billions” Is The Best Show About The Worst Kind Of Masculinity

Paul Giamatti as Chuck Rhoades and Jeffrey DeMunn as Charles Rhoades Sr. in the Billions episode “Hell of a Ride.”

Jeff Neumann / Showtime

Dick is a multipurpose metaphor in Billions. Most of the characters in Showtime’s hedge fund drama talk about their work, their success or lack thereof, and their stature as an extension of their virility. They aren’t all men, but they do all circle a luxe locker room of an industry that’s been overwhelmingly defined by men. Any observation you might feel inclined to make about Wall Street being dominated by bros vying to prove who has the biggest balls, Billions makes for you. In its very first episode, without the hint of a wink, a trader describes his issues at work to performance coach Wendy Rhoades (Maggie Siff) by using the language of erectile dysfunction: “I hear it happens to guys my age.”

Exactly a season later, Wendy shakes a bottle of Viagra at an audience of hedge fund types, telling them that while some of them rely on it, none would admit that: “The thought that someone might know you need help is worse than not getting the help you need. Still, when the time comes, when you need to pull the trigger on the buy or sell order, you better be hard as a rock and ready to go” — no Freudian subtext necessary. More recently, to really underscore the erection connection and the fragility that accompanies it, a character insists he would part with a fraction of his — “an inch off my dick” — if it meant he and his failing fund could get back in the game.

When Billions, the creation of Brian Koppelman and David Levien, premiered in 2016, it was a show that — much like its wilder cinematic sibling The Wolf of Wall Street — felt unwilling to commit to being either a critique or a celebration of the excesses and amoral schemes it was putting onscreen. When you wallow in dudes slinging their schlongs around without any apparent subversion, it tends to come across as endorsement, especially when considered through the fumes of the presidential election that followed the first season, in which macho posturing and cartoonish wealth carried the day. In its early episodes, especially, Billions could be taken for another variation on the “flawed but great man” drama, and an addictive but particularly sour one whose standards of greatness were questionable.

Bobby “Axe” Axelrod (Damian Lewis) and Chuck at the end of Season 1.

Jeff Neumann / Showtime

It’s actually about two men — US attorney and rising political star Chuck Rhoades (Paul Giamatti), and hedge fund superstar and billionaire “man of the people” Bobby Axelrod (Damian Lewis) — and the series unfolds in the shadow of their kaiju battle. Chuck, who sets out to take down Axe for insider trading with the obsessiveness of Ahab chasing Moby (sorry) Dick, might nominally be on the side of “good,” or at least the law, but Billions is quick to muddy this divide. With his aims to run for office, Chuck proves himself to be someone willing to cross lines to further his own interests, while Axe is shown to be, while far from innocent, not the worst offender in his ethically flexible industry — just the showiest target.

Three seasons in, Chuck and Axe are still duking it out, and what’s striking is how much smaller their continuing struggle now makes them look — so very human-sized. They’ve lost relationships and fortunes to a conflict that was started, by Axe’s own acknowledgment, for “dick-measuring purposes.” Somewhere along its run, Billions snapped into focus from being a blurry drama about power to being an infinitely sharper one about gender. It’s a snappily paced, light-on-its-feet nightmare about pissing contests, bruised egos, and displays of dominance, and what happens when power and gendered behavior are so intertwined that they get openly treated as if they were one and the same.

Midway through its current season, Billions still couldn’t be described as a critique of the finance world, or the political one that intersects with it — it regards them both with a clinical gaze, as structures that protect and serve themselves, resist consequences, and erode people’s ideals with rewards and compromises. Part of what makes the protagonists’ continuing clash quietly ridiculous is that, however intent they are on obliterating one another, both are wealthy white men cushioned by all the advantages they inherited or accrued for themselves, and they could ever only fall so far.

Chuck, with his pedigree and connections, could roll through the scandal that may or may not erupt around him and into a lucrative private sector gig if he had to; Axe, who in a recent episode had an earnest conversation with his ex-wife Lara about whether they could afford to live on a mere $300 million if they had to, immediately comes up with a workaround after being cornered into giving up his ability to trade. Billions is technically a drama, but it’s more fitting to think of it as a dark, near-subliminal comedy about machismo and avarice, about what a surreal thing it is that so many people in power are really just jostling to throw their junk on the table.

Taylor (Asia Kate Dillon) at the poker table in “Optimal Play.”

Jeff Neumann / Showtime

The best thing Billions has done was to introduce a nonbinary character in its second season. That’s not just because casting the nonbinary actor Asia Kate Dillon as Taylor Mason — a brilliant analyst who strides into Axe’s office, informs him of their preferred pronouns, and proceeds to impress him so much that he coaxes them out of their plans to head to academia with offers of a hefty paycheck and mentorship — is a milestone of representation. It is, as is the conversation that Dillon went on to lead about actor/actress awards categories. But Taylor has also crystallized the themes of gender and power that the show had previously been circling less certainly. The transformation of Taylor from an intriguing side character at the start of Season 2 to a central series regular in Season 3 is the saga of Billions finally clicking together, like a dance troupe finally nailing its choreography.

Billions is not exclusively a show about men, but it is shaped by masculinity to the extent that most of its women — formidable, brainy, tough — are seen through the ways they’ve had to learn how to navigate the expectations and biases of men. They shield themselves when needed, soften their edges when it’s advantageous, and contend with being seen as sexual objects. Characters like Wendy, who can effortlessly hamstring a heckler with a precise observation about the source of his insecurities, or Assistant US Attorney Kate Sacker (Condola Rashād), whose guardedness when talking about the depths of her convictions speaks to an awareness that they could get her labeled as too emotional to get the job done, have had to get used to being one of the few women in the room. Wendy’s storyline has been explicitly about those challenges, about being Chuck’s romantic partner and Axe’s professional one, and contending with how much trouble they have accepting that she can do both.

Taylor’s experience is by no means easier than that of the women on the show (“You skinny fucking freak!” a finance bigshot spits at them at one point), but it’s different, in that so many of their colleagues are confounded about what biases to bring to bear. No one at work has context for Taylor. In their first appearance, Taylor teases another trader about assuming they’re a vegan, letting him sputter before dryly saying, “Of course I’m a vegan.” Taylor, with their shorn head, neutral dress, and intense eye contact, is cerebral and straightforward instead of gut-driven and posturing, concerned about their carbon footprint, and uneasy with conspicuous consumption — all qualities that put them at odds with everyone around them at the office. At first, that made it seem like they were going to get saddled with being Axe Capital’s conscience — that frequent burden of the outsider, to have to serve as a morally pure buzzkill.

Taylor and Mafee (Dan Soder) in “Dead Cat Bounce.”

Jeff Neumann / Showtime

Instead, Taylor becomes the company’s star, then Axe’s unexpected chosen successor, carving out a path for themselves as someone for whom strength is not bound up in performing masculinity or displays of aggression. Taylor was clearly initially introduced to be a foil for Axe, to demonstrate that, despite how chest-thumpy the office culture around him is, Axe himself is capable of seeing talent whether it comes in a form he’s accustomed to or not. But since then, Axe has in many ways been transformed into a foil for Taylor. He is an adviser who keeps trying to pass along his worst qualities as well as his best ones, because he doesn’t see them that way, even as his skirmishes with Chuck end up making him an exile from his own fund.

“You know the rider in the bicycle movie who, just when he has victory in sight, takes his hands off the bars and just holds them out like this, taking in the sun, gliding, letting all the other racers whiz by him just because?” Taylor asks Axe this in the Alex Gibney–directed episode “Optimal Play” in the second season, when Axe approaches them about representing the company in a Wall Street charity poker tournament called, honest to god, the Alpha Cup. “I always want to be that biker,” Taylor says. Despite their disinterest in that sort of competition, Taylor of course gets roped into playing and wins, taking down a taunting opponent whose rage makes him transparent.

It’s an exhilarating moment underscored with unease, as their colleagues slap them on the back and cuff their head affectionately, rewarding them with “one of us” gestures of acceptance they weren’t seeking out. Taylor understands that knowing you can win, and then opting not to bother, is actually a bigger power move than needing to constantly destroy all rivals. They even put it in language the Axe Capital community should understand: “The whole ‘my dick is bigger than yours’ thing, it wasn’t for me.”

Axe in “The Wrong Maria Gonzalez.”

Jeff Neumann / Showtime

The motif of fathers and their (literal or figurative) children has become a throughline in the third season of Billions, and another way for the series to explore gender and power. Taylor, in becoming the heir to Axe’s throne, has had to contend with their mentor’s unwillingness to cede control of his kingdom. Axe turns up at the office, which is full of employees he’s forbidden from interacting with, to show that it’s still his territory, a compulsive flaunting of strength that mostly just undermines Taylor’s still-new leadership role. There’s a sense that he can’t resist wanting to compete with Taylor, even if it means competing with his own company — to prove, even if only to himself, that he’s still the best. As is the case with his war with Chuck, Axe just can’t help himself.

While Taylor and Axe settle on a mutually agreeable detente, a more perverse reconciliation is achieved in the parallel storyline of Chuck and his actual father, Charles (Jeffrey DeMunn), a New York real estate tycoon. Charles’ desire to further a family dynasty wars with his contempt for what he perceives as weakness in his son, and he is a great believer in manly posturing, in ways that his son is at least conflicted about. Billions is, on the sexposition-happy scale of cable dramas, relatively restrained with displays of sex and nudity. So it’s telling that in Sunday’s episode, “A Generation Too Late,” the writers allow DeMunn a moment in the buff when Charles shucks his robe to dismiss a man who tries to corner him outside a steam room for an unwanted conversation — full-frontal as a power move.

In the previous episode, Charles scornfully lectures Chuck about trying to repair their relationship with a sentimental speech, as they stand outside an alumni event on a campus Charles describes as “the site of my greatest conquests.” He points to a dorm and announces, “I fucked three girls in there once in a 24-hour period — one in the can.” Charles is a hidebound, amusingly loathsome creation, and last night’s installment ended with a particularly grim punchline about just what it takes for Chuck to secure affirmation from his father. All Chuck needed to do is to screw his dad over and force his hand. “I’m proud of you, son — you fucked me good,” the older man says, in the first expression of pride toward his son since young Chuck lost his virginity to a sex worker of his dad’s choosing at age 14.

Chuck and Wendy Rhoades (Maggie Siff) at the start of Season 2.

Showtime

Billions can be cartoonish, and if the past year has underscored anything, it’s that the IRL worlds of finance and politics sure can be, too. But the fictionality of Billions provides enough distance that there’s a strange sense of comfort to be had from the series. Watching actual world leaders conduct their own dick-measuring contest on a nuclear scale is terrifying, because we exist at the mercy of their decisions, and we have to live with the consequences. Watching Axe and Chuck sneer at each other in the plush spaces the show rarely strays from, we’re freed up to consider the sad absurdity of these tendencies. These men are so inured to competition and a desire to prove their dominance that they work against their own best interests and those of their successors.

The series doesn’t pander by suggesting that its non-male characters are either better or more compassionate than men — both Taylor and Lara, for instance, advocate for financially gutting a small town whose debt Axe purchases. But the show does end up portraying stereotypical masculinity as a trap that its main characters can’t find their way out of. That masculinity is a vulnerability that they have internalized as strength, even if these same characters still hold most of the power. They may be smart men, but they can be baited into doing some very dumb things for the sake of their pride and the need to demonstrate their prowess. And that’s a hell of a lot more fun to watch unfold on scripted television than it is on cable news. ●

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ramajmedia · 5 years ago

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Outlander: 10 Times Claire Was Actually A Jerk | ScreenRant

Starting its epic run in 2014, Outlander has been a really good plot that has only gotten better over the past four seasons, and with two more seasons to come, the story isn’t over yet. It can be kind of hard to pick out a favorite character, but so easy to find ones to hate. In today’s list, we will be going over some of the worst things that Claire has done in the seasons that we have seen her in. Be warned, there are massive spoilers in this list, so if you haven’t seen it, you may want to hold off.

RELATED: Outlander: 10 Hidden Facts About Murtagh Only True Fans Noticed

10 She Rape-Shamed Jamie

Starting off this list is one of the most heinous things she’s done and what really helped show her true colors. After Jamie reveals a very dark moment to her, in pure confidence when she could help him, she did the exact opposite and made him feel even worse about a situation that was nowhere near his fault. She even forces him to relive the moment by asking him what happened, even after she knew what happened. You think she would be a little bit more understanding of the situation after almost being raped herself but she just makes it worse.

9 She doesn’t kill Charles

They had the leader of the rebellion right there in Jaime’s house, and at the oddest hours you could possibly imagine. That, paired with the fact that literally no one knows where Charles is, and she just passes up on that chance to kill the dude. With as much pain and suffering, Charles has caused Jaime and Claire, you’d think that maybe she would show the incentive to kill the bad dude, and stop the growing problems for a lot of people while doing it. But of course, the show’s Claire is a very easily despicable character.

RELATED: Outlander: 10 Questions About Murtagh, Answered

8 She Just Won’t Listen

She doesn’t listen to anyone at all, and this is by far one of her more frustrating personality traits. Granted, she is a strong-headed WWII vet who was blasted back to the past, but her ability to respectfully listen to other people's opinions is lacking to the extreme. Its as if she can’t realize that this isn’t her world anymore, this is 200 years before that, and she doesn’t know jack about what's really going on. However, she acts and treats everyone else like she’s smarter than them, and consistently goes against her own support groups wise, experienced advice.

7 Her Words Can Sting

She’s also very spiteful when you think of it. Take the instance where Jaime is about to extract his long-wanted revenge, and all she could do was talk about sleeping with Frank. Like really? Not only is the man you love about to potentially die, but you have to drag on and on about how you slept with someone? There is a right place and time, and this really makes us think about how detached from situations she is at times. What in her mind would make her think that was the best time to talk about her promiscuous sex-life?

RELATED: Outlander: 10 Best Costumes On The Show, Ranked

6 She Leaves Her Family Behind

Another huge hit to the pretentious Claire's character is the fact that she left her only daughter to go back in the past to have some juicy, under the sheet tango time with Jamie, and that’s only in the second season. What type of person would be thrown into the past, be able to go back to her loving home and family, and still think its a good idea to leave the man you used to love. Her role as a parent may have been put aside for the first accidental time travel incident, but willingly leaving people that love you?

5 She Stops Growing

Her emotional growth over the 20 years that we have seen her don’t really make that much of a stride in the show as they do in the books. Yes, she becomes a doctor in her new timeline after all her experience as a nurse for WWII vets, but she still remains somewhat cold and selfish and refuses to accept that the world around her is different than the one she came from. She often gets people like Frank in trouble for not heeding his warning of what’s going on, and consistently has to play “Mrs. Superior” to literally everyone.

RELATED: Outlander: Lord John Grey’s 10 Most Romantic Quotes Ever

4 She Slaps Laoghaire

Of course, everyone has the right to be angry sometimes, but to take it out on someone that wasn’t really supposed to be involved in the first place is a bad move on Claire's part. Not only is she older than her, but she should have tried a bit harder to control her anger because someone had a differing viewpoint. How many times do you think Claire herself would have been slapped for her opinions, especially when it's a time period where women have little to no rights at all. Some mutual understanding on her part would’ve worked.

3 She Makes Her Husband’s Well-Being About Her

This is one part of the show that really made us very uncomfortable, and showed a good bit of narcissism in the show’s version of Claire. With her husband being badly wounded, Claire began going off on another self-absorbed rant about how he needs to get better because he is HER husband, making his healing process revolve around her. This was a serious glimpse on how different versions of Claire are represented, with the book Claire still holding some bad traits, but who also showed warmth and care a considerable amount more for those that were affected by her often brash choices.

RELATED: Outlander: 10 Things To Do While You're Waiting For The Droughtlander To Be Over

2 She Made an Entire Town Mad

It’s a very good thing to stand up against slavery, and for that we kinda have to give props to Claire, despite her really not deserving it sometimes. There is the time when five minutes after she found out about the slave. It’s one thing to not like slavery, but to insult the dude that’s responsible for giving you almost everything you now own, you kinda got keep some opinions to yourself. She took it upon herself to save the slave, and would not accept that she couldn’t do anything about it, ignoring the potential problems caused for the people that her actions would affect.

1 She Broke Alex’s Heart

Claire has a consistent knack for ruining things for everybody except for herself. Take the time when she had Alex freed because she sent Mary’s letters to the Bastille. Going good so far, but when he comes to thank her, she immediately tells him how a convict like him could never make someone like Mary happy. Why even help the guy go free if you’re going to insult him and take away the main reason he wanted freedom. She claims it really broke her heart to ruin their happiness, but made no attempt whatsoever to fix the damage she intentionally delivered.

NEXT: 10 Outlander Characters Sorted Into Hogwarts Houses

source https://screenrant.com/outlander-10-times-claire-actually-jerk/

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