#despite all his other achievements and hard-won personal growth -

[brujitaadinbo]

We've talked a lot about Din and Bo and the entire season but they've left out something very important… Grogu… How he has been a key and important part of Din's growth and development and better yet the relationship he has developed with Bo Katan.

When I read or hear people say that Grogu should never have stayed with Din; they really make me think Did you watch the series and understand something? Grogu is an agent of change, he is hope, the spark that gave the fire called Union for both Din and Bo and for all Mandalorians. Eliminating Grogu is not understanding anything and wanting to pigeonhole the series, only in Din. Din is the protagonist and we know it, but we are also seeing little by little how more key characters and co-protagonists are entering this story and playing an important role. Grogu has directed Din's new life project, he has taken him out of that misery of living just to live or rather just survive and stay that way. Se han embarcado en un viaje juntos como padre e hijo y no es que solo queramos encasillarlo como padre y listo… el propósito de esto es que Din se dé cuenta de que no está solo, porque al vivir en una tribu, todavía era un nómada adoctrinado, siguiendo el credo por convicción pero de una manera cerrada y egoísta. Después de que Grogu se queda con el, ahora si completamente, Din vive para un propósito más grande como Bo katan se lo menciona anteriormente…

It is when he feels the need to provide the child and the children of his tribe with a better future, where they can live without that yoke that only makes them sink into fear or survival. That is why his interaction with Bo Katan is very important, he knows that she will be able to provide a home for him, the child, and his people. Makes sense.

Grogu, since he arrives with Din, begins to tear down those walls that Din had built as a way to "protect" himself. Din has wounds from his past and little by little he has been healing them as part of his personal development but that this path, he does not go through alone, is something positive for the story, it shows us the depth of the feelings of these characters, who can to be able to do things other than just fight.

That they can be more than simple warriors, that Mandalorians have other types of strengths and not only in weapons and that it is worth changing and having a purpose in life, that every purpose is valid and that we should not pigeonhole ourselves into just being. . "Hard or combative" that growth must encompass other aspects.

In that aspect, Grogu is leading Din to be a great person, something he is also achieving with Bo Katan. She always respected the child and gave him his place, despite the differences with his father, she never threatened him or in front of the child, she did something that could put him in danger and I love that Grogu learns things from Bo Katan such as understanding His motto… "The Mandalorians are stronger together" when he sees the conflict between Paz and Axe… he does something because he knows it is the right thing to do, because he knows it is a good principle that the people closest to him are teaching him. …Din and Bo.

It is not that Bo katan has won over the boy to get to his father, Bo katan has always given him his place and has treated him like a child, as someone who feels, who thinks, someone with whom he can talk and tell stories, someone who can learn and that in Grogu's eyes that is why she has become close, that is why Bo katan allows herself to protect him, give him encouragement and support him in his dart duel, keep an eye on him, take pride in his achievements such as being a knight to the Duchess of Plazir, allows him to be in her lap commanding a ship and above all….

Grogu makes space for her in his life and allows himself to save her life along with his father, he feels that connection with her that's why he keeps her safe and close and tell me about these aspects, Grogu at the time of being in the mines When Din tells Bo… that he respects his father, that he admires him and would have liked to meet him, a wink connected to the emotional, because it is known that Bo loved his father and it is a way to honor her, Grogu realizes tells of something interesting that happens with Din but that he almost runs away so that what flowed in the air is not noticed LOL that it was noticed… but Bo Katan is also discovered by Grogu and she reacts, You can see that she doesn't want them to be trying to read those highly charged emotions that many of us also notice. Grogu is not stupid, he doesn't know these feelings because he hasn't experienced them yet but he knows they are there and if he could talk, he would say it hahah that's clear. As clear as he can feel that connection between the two of them, between the three of them, and that's why he also feels comfortable and supported.

Sorry but… do you still think that Grogu is unnecessary??? Really reflect on this point. What I want to see is how he develops as a Mandalorian apprentice and what they will be cooking for him this 4th season. That's the way.

[justanotherthrowaway1950]

Why Azula Staying a Villain Will Only Lead To Bad Stories Part 2: Negative Effects on Other Characters, World Building, Lore, and Thematic Expression

I know how in part 1 I briefly mentioned how keeping Azula a villain causes everyone to start acting stupid and incompetent, thus denigrating them and their arcs/character growth, whenever Azula is involved so she can remain a credible threat despite the Gaang all being masters in their respective fields and having the resources of several nation-states at their beck and call plus a PMC (the White Lotus).

But I understand that I didn’t go into detail, and so my analysis was lackluster at best, and probably very controversial at worse. So I am going to go into detail based on importance, and with that said, here I go.

Zuko (The Search)

Realistically, other than some minor complaints, most people agree that TV!Zuko’s arc is one of the greatest in Western Animation. For his tale is that of someone who almost gave into his abuse and conditioning, but, with the help of his loving uncle, his travels, and mercy/compassion showed to him by his enemies/future friends, managed to overcome it and start the journey of not only becoming a better person, but also help his country heal after several decades of propaganda and brainwashing,

And part of said arc is what he comes to realize about Azula: that she is not worth emulating; that she is abusive to him and the people he cares about like Mai and Ty Lee; and that she, a genocidal, authoritarian colonizer, needs to be stopped and locked up by any means, even if it hurts him. For it is the only way that the world and his country can achieve peace and balance once again...that is until Azula starts showing signs that either she has realized the error of her ways or that she wants to take a new path, but needs help finding it.

But, in an effort to allow Azula to become a villain again, Bryke has Zuko engage in several actions that not only betray his character growth, but also aren’t really explained and negatively reflect on him.

Like, during that conference concerning Yu Dao where Zuko “realizes” that the sorry state of his nuclear family negatively reflects on him, why would Zuko care suddenly about what his subjects think of him? 

Did Zuko forget that he not only betrayed his nation and basically caused them to lose a war they had already won, but also is forcing them to pay reparations (as is said in North and South)? 

And that he is going to remain a pariah in his subject’s eyes until he manages to undo decades of brainwashing considering his only real allies are foreigners; Iroh, who is just as much of a traitor in the Fire Nation's eyes as Zuko; Mai, who committed treason that led to the Fire Nation's lost; and Ty Lee, who did commit a less extreme version of treason, but immediately left the Fire Nation after getting out of prison to join a foreign PMC, which would look suspect in the populace’s eyes to say the least?

But things really start to go sideways when he goes to Azula’s asylum to get Azula to extract intel from Ozai about Ursa, allows the two to talk alone, and foolishly wheels Azula alone while promising to move her back into the palace.

Like when he went to the asylum, how come he didn’t ask them about Azula’s treatment, and whether it was safe to take her out to see Ozai, her abuser and co-conspirator, let alone take her back to the palace? For if he did, maybe he would have found out she was being abused in the asylum, and therefore could have done something about it so Azula and her fellow inmates could be treated better.

But maybe not considering it is Azula, and she deserves to be abused for making Zuko’s life hard from the moment she was born./s

Like why would he allow Azula and Ozai to talk alone considering their conniving natures and the fact that they are the two biggest threats to his regime, at least politically?

Why would he wheel Azula alone, especially after Ty Lee told him that the chi-blocking is wearing off? For I know this depends on how much Ty Lee knows about chi-blocking and its effects (I’ll talk about this more in Ty Lee’s section), but Azula has already shown that she is still hostile/violent towards Zuko. That, in combination with her previous showings of being able to escape nearly any situation she finds herself in, should have made Zuko wary of being alone with Azula when the chi-blocking wears off instead of trying to have a soft brother-sister moment.

And then that whole sequence where Azula breaks free and manages to burn every single letter in Ozai’s chest, save for the “Zuko is Ikem’s bastard” letter before blackmailing him into going on the search for Ursa free, unbound, and with dignity. *Sigh*

Like why would Zuko shoot a fireball of the perfect size and speed that would allow Azula to break free of the chains on her legs, instead of, I don’t know, calling the rest of his elite guard to subdue her? Especially after she managed to bullshit instant lightning out of nowhere, and thus has tricks that Zuko does not know about?

After Zuko had caught up to her and found out that she had supposedly burned every single letter and tried blackmailing him into going on the search for Ursa free and unbound, how come he didn’t pat her down? For even if he had no way of knowing that she had that “bastard” letter, wouldn’t it be wise to check if she hid any letter on her body? 

I mean this is one of the most trickiest characters in the franchise, so why not be extra cautious?

And the whole blackmail situation? Look, I understand why Zuko agreed to Azula’s terms, for who doesn’t want to find out what happened to their beloved mother? But doesn’t Zuko have a duty to the world and his subjects to make sure that Azula remains in jail until she at least tries to reform herself? 

(Yes, I know Azula was involuntarily psych warded, but considering Suki in The Search calls both Ozai and Azula Zuko's prisoners, and Mai in Smoke and Shadow laments Zuko taking Azula out of her "prison", it seems pretty obvious that whole point of sending Azula to the asylum was to lock her up while getting her medical treatment as far as everyone was concerned. Hence, why I at times refer to Azula's involuntarily psych warding, or potentially getting involuntarily psych warded again, as jailing.)

I know this sounds callous, but the moment Azula tried blackmailing him, he should have told her that finding Ursa was not worth letting her free before jailing her again. For why run the risk that Azula could do something horrible or escape? I mean what could go wrong if she escaped…?

Also, even if she had to be free, unbound, and travel with dignity, why didn’t Zuko have a small platoon with him? For even if he did have the Avatar and the world’s greatest waterbender by his side, shouldn’t Zuko have taken precautions in the event that Aang and Katara got separated from them, thus leaving just him and Sokka with her?

(In my opinion, Zuko is stronger than Crazy!Azula, but not to the point that she couldn’t cheap shot him. And yes, I know Sokka is a badass, but I think as of current canon he is still weaker than Crazy!Azula.)

But most galling is the fact that he made this decision unilaterally without asking Mai and Ty Lee for their opinion, or, if he was adamant about agreeing to Azula’s terms, not providing them with 24/7 security until Azula was safely back in the asylum and/or prison.

For Azula was not just Zuko’s abuser, but also Mai and Ty Lee’s abusive friend and commander before almost killing Mai and then jailing them for life.

(The Boiling Rock Part 2 script said Azula was going to generate lightning.)

Considering that Mai saved Zuko’s life, that Ty Lee saved Mai, the love of Zuko’s life, and is part of Zuko’s current protection team, and that the both of them are closest thing to childhood friends that Zuko has, why didn’t Zuko treat them with the respect they deserved? Especially since post-redemption Zuko is someone who is supposed to be empathetic and caring?

But moving on to the rest of The Search, how come after Zuko found out about the “bastard” letter, he didn’t burn it? For even if he did want to find out the truth, isn’t it more important that he prevents a civil war by not allowing his “illegitimacy” to become public knowledge, at least until he can give power to Iroh in the case that he was truly a bastard?

Or, even if he didn’t want to burn the letter until Ursa confirmed the accuracy of it, why would he allow Azula to keep it on her person? I mean, what would have happened if she had managed to escape with it on her person? 

Sunshine and roses, or a bloody civil war that threatens to undo everything Zuko and his friends fought for in the war?

Which ties into my last point about Zuko’s behavior in The Search, which also serves segue into Smoke and Shadow: why the hell did Zuko not chase after Azula?!

For even if he would be risking his life and potentially Noriko’s, couldn’t Zuko have seen the danger in letting Azula free? Especially considering as far as he knew she still had the letter on her person?

Or, once Ursa had her face and memories restored, how come he didn’t leave Katara with Ursa and her family and search for Azula with Aang and Sokka?

Did Zuko forget that it was all his fault in the first place that his life, as well as Noriko’s, was in danger, and that he had a responsibility to the world, his country, and his friends to make sure Azula got back into his custody?

But anyway, even if Azula managed to free herself, at least she was no longer a threat to Zuko, his regime, and/or anyone he cares about? 

Right?

Zuko (Smoke and Shadow)

After searching for Azula for a couple of weeks, he goes home and tells Ursa that he “tried".

But did he really? Cause if we take his word at face value, do you know what that means?

(Note: I think his statement could be interpreted to mean that him, Aang, Katara, and Sokka spent weeks searching the old fashioned way. But if that was the case, then in my opinion, he really didn’t try considering all the options he had. So I am taking Zuko’s statement at face value since it is the most positive interpretation of his statement.)

That means a mentally broken Azula with no allies or resources managed to avoid an Avatar State powered seismic sense, June’s shirshu, and Toph’s seismic sense, as well as anyone Iroh and/or the White Lotus sent over to help Zuko find his sister.

Do you know what that implies about the competency of everyone involved? How bad that makes them all look?

Anyway moving on, it appears that not only did Zuko fail to issue a public proclamation that Azula had escaped, but also failed to give Ty Lee and Mai, along with their families, protection. 

For if he had issued a proclamation, maybe Azula would have been found earlier, instead of being able to break six girls out of her asylum, or manipulate the New Ozai Society (NOS)/Safe Nation Society. And in regards to Ty Lee and Mai, even if he felt they didn’t need protection while Azula was free, but by his side, the moment she managed to escape his custody, he should have given them and their families protection.

For Zuko didn’t know that Azula wasn’t seeking revenge. No, as far as Zuko knew, she probably was going to kill everyone between her and the throne, including everyone who "betrayed" her. And even if Zuko hadn’t seen Mai since their break up, Ty Lee is part of his protection detail, and thus he should have realized how paranoid and scared she was and asked her what he could have done to alleviate her fears, as well as her best friend Mai’s fears as well.

And Zuko still makes similar grave errors even after he finds out that Azula is behind the kidnappings, and that she had been manipulating the NOS/Safe Nation Society as part of a long-term plan to turn him into a tyrant.

For after Kiyi’s kidnapping, instead of issuing curfews, searching Caldera City citizens' homes without cause, and engaging in mass jailing of anyone who was on the streets when the Safe Nation Society was rioting, he instead should have called all of the Gaang and had Iroh call the White Lotus before starting an all out manhunt for Azula and her followers.

And he especially should have done this after she told him his plan and he found that Aang had gotten knocked out by Azula’s henchwomen.

For not only has Azula gotten rid of his trump card over her (lightning redirection), but also has become the GOAT lightning manipulator and H2H fighter in ATLA. That, combined with her and her Fire Warriors' smokebending abilities, makes her the biggest threat to Zuko’s throne and world peace. 

Thus, Zuko should have spent every waking moment hunting down Azula instead of doing stupid shit like going on a diplomatic trip to the South Pole. 

For I admit the image of the leaders and the most important people in the four (United Republic still not a thing as of North and South) nations eating with each other is a powerful one, but it is still hollow as long as the biggest threat to the post-world order is still roaming free and plotting to bring it to an end.

Aang (The Search)

Right off the bat, when Zuko told him about the whole blackmail situation, he should have either said ok, but call in Toph, as well as anyone else who he thought was needed, or told Zuko that finding his mother was not worth it since their was a chance, no matter how small, that Azula could escape before putting her back in the asylum himself.

For yeah, I know the first point sounds OOC, but Aang out of all people should know how dangerous Azula is (the lightning wounds on his left foot and back say hi), and therefore take proper precautions. 

And yes, I know the second point sounds really OOC, but doesn’t Aang know that his duty isn’t to his friends, but to the world? And thus, even if it hurts, he has to prioritize the world’s safety over his friend’s well-being, and therefore not allow arguably the most dangerous, both politically and bending wise, non-Avatar person in the world any chance of escaping?

Especially when it appears the only thing Azula regrets is losing, and not any of the actions she took during the war?

But alas, this blatant disregard towards his duty as an Avatar continues not only when he finds that “bastard” letter with Zuko, but also when he fails to give chase to Azula after helping Ursa restore her face and memories.

For even after Zuko refused to burn the letter because he wanted to find out the truth, Aang should have taken the letter and burned it, or at least not let the letter get back into Azula’s hands.

For if that letter ever became public, it would ruin everything that Aang fought for in the war, for either Iroh, an old man who has no inclination to produce heirs as far as canon is concerned, would have to take the throne to prevent Ozai and/or Azula from taking it, or it would cause a massive civil war considering Zuko is already on thin ice with his subjects.

And once he helped Ursa restore her face, he should have entered the Avatar State and used his seismic sense before entering his elemental shield to look for Azula. 

For even if Azula is mentally broken at that point, she is still a Top 4 fire-bender in the world with a strong claim to the throne, and thus getting her back into Zuko's custody should have been his highest priority. Not staying by Zuko’s side, especially now that he has been reunited with his mother and can adequately protect Ursa and her family now.

Aang (Smoke and Shadow)

Assuming that we take Zuko’s comments at face value about how he tried, what does that say about Aang that Azula not only managed to escape his Avatar State powered seismic sense, but also couldn’t find her, even with his elemental shield providing unmatched mobility?

But moving onto something that requires no assumptions: what he did, or didn’t, do after finding out that Azula was behind the Kemurikage kidnappings as well as in league with the New Ozai Society.

Why didn’t Aang call in the rest of the Gaang and/or the White Lotus to help him apprehend Azula? For the worst case scenario has happened, and Azula is actively working to restore the old regime, as far as Aang knows at this point, has become the strongest firebender and H2H fighter in the world, and has regained her sanity as far as he knows.

Considering all the harm Azula has caused, and is currently causing, how come Aang didn’t take every measure to make sure that Azula would get back into their custody as well as make sure the kidnapped kids were in no danger whatsoever?

How come when he went into that room to help rescue the kids, he didn’t have his guard up or enter the room with his elemental shield up?

For Aang knows that the Fire Warriors have smokebending abilities, it was smoke, combined with volcanic gases, that killed his predecessor, and that the Fire Warriors are seditious, mass child kidnappers in league with Azula. 

So why didn’t Aang take them seriously?

For if Aang wasn’t protected by the fact that he has to die as a 66 year old man (LoK), after the Fire Warriors knocked him out, they would have killed him instead of monologuing just long enough for Mai and Kei Lo to save him by knocking out them.

And then what? A world without a fully realized Avatar that is liable to fall back into war long before his successor could be identified and become a fully realized Avatar. Especially if Azula killed Zuko after their crypt shuffle, therefore leaving no one really able to fight back against the Fire Warriors as they consolidate power and restart the Hundred Year War as far as Aang knows.

But most galling in my opinion is how Aang doesn’t drop everything and lead an all out manhunt for Azula and the Fire Warriors, especially once he found out that their true goal is to break Zuko and make him into a tyrant. For Aang out of all people should know what Azula is capable of when she is “sane."

So why does he fuck off?! 

What is he going to say when the Fire Warriors do something irredeemable and/or unfixable, and so him and Zuko have to explain to the world why Azula got free in the first place, why they lied about her involvement with the Kemurikage kidnappings, and why she managed to avoid getting captured despite no longer having a nation-state backing her, her lack of resources in general considering she is a homeless, penniless fugitive, and the fact that she is no match for the Avatar State, or even a bloodlusted four element Aang?

Mai

A lot of people hate on Mai, calling her a bad, high-maintenance girlfriend who doesn’t understand Zuko and is an undeveloped character, among other things.

But I think TV!show Mai was a loving girlfriend who was trying her best with a boyfriend dealing with his severe trauma on top of his precarious position in court before ultimately betraying her and their country without any warning from her POV.

Moreover, for a tertiary character, I think her arc is short, sweet, and powerful. This is because Mai was a girl who was heavily implied to be forced into an abusive friendship for the sake of her father’s political career in addition to having to suppress her true emotions. But, thanks to her boyfriend having the courage to stand up against their abusers, she learns to stand up against her abuser while also helping her real best friend find the courage to also stand up against their mutual abuser, and is on the path to healing and learning how to establish healthy relationships.

In other words, Mai learns that she doesn’t have to put her head down and ignore her emotions or capacity for love. And it is this realization that allows her to help create a better world for herself, her boyfriend, her best friend, and the rest of the world, including her own nation once they come to the same realizations as she has.

But instead of continuing on that path, the comics have her completely forget the realization she had and have her behave OOC, in my opinion, in several contexts.

For even if she, like Ty Lee, were completely done dirty by Zuko in that he let Azula free without asking them how they felt about it before losing her and having the gall to not assign 24/7 protection to them and their families until he recovers her, it doesn’t excuse the fact that she hid from Zuko/the proper authorities the existence of the New Ozai Society, and the fact that her father and “boyfriend” were members of it, with her father leading and funding it as well.

For it is quite obvious what are the out-of-universe explanations for why Mai didn’t go straight to the palace after The Rebound and tell Zuko, but there is no good-in universe answer that is inline with her previously established character.

(In my opinion, the out-of-universe explanations for why Mai didn't go straight to the palace after The Rebound was so that Azula, who no longer has a nation-state backing her, would have the means and funds to manipulate terrorist groups, as well as house her kidnapped kids as part of her longer plot to make Zuko snap.)

For when did Mai suddenly care about her father to the point that she was willing to commit treason by supporting, or at least covering up, his seditious plot? 

For didn’t Mai, when she committed treason at in Boiling Rock, essentially betray her father and the rest of her family in favor of Zuko?

Moreover, why would she prioritize her father and his potential political power considering what would happen if Ozai ever got back into power? For I know Avatar is a children’s franchise ,but I am pretty sure one of Ozai’s first acts once he got back on the throne after he killing Zuko, Ursa, Iroh, Noren, and Kiyi would be killing Mai and Ty Lee for their treason. 

Especially considering that if she hadn’t turned when she did, half the Gaang would have died and Ozai would have very likely won the war. For without Aang learning lightning redirection, unless rock-kun (rock-kun is the younger cousin of Naruto’s swing-kun) intervenes much earlier, Aang dies to Ozai’s lightning spam, and no one else on the remaining Team Avatar is a match for Comet!Ozai except in the very unlikely chance Katara manages to develop 24/7 bloodbending in the aftermath of Aang's lost.

But alas, Mai decides to act in an OOC manner and hides from Zuko the existence of the New Ozai Society/Safe Nation Society until her Zuko’s half-sister, along with her brother, have been kidnapped by the Fire Warriors after Zuko, Ursa, Noren, and Kiyi barely survived a New Ozai Society ambush.

And by barely, I mean if it wasn’t for the combination of Ukano’s monologue, Kei Lo’s last minute heel-face turn, and Zuko managing to bullshit the greatest non-Avatar fire redirection feat in the franchise, Zuko and his family would have been burned to death and/or brutally stabbed to death.

But even more galling, when confronted with her treason, Mai claims that Zuko out of all people should know how hard it is to betray your father, as if there wasn’t a difference between betraying the all powerful ruler of your country who has a cult of personality, has burned you before, can quickly fire off lethal amounts of lightning on command, and has said before he wanted to kill you, versus betraying your mentally and physically weak father who rejected being integrated into the new government and seeks to put someone back in power who would likely kill you for committing treason against him.

Especially since Zuko accepts her explanation, and no one in-universe or the narrative ever again challenges Mai on why she committed treason.

For I understand that Mai is a tertiary character, and thus can’t have the same narrative focus in regards to her redemption arc like Zuko. But if the narrative is going to treat Mai as a hundred percent redeemed good guy, she should be held to the same standards and be criticized when she acts in a villainous manner.

But yet again, the comics fail to challenge Zuko for almost restarting the Hundred Year War instead of calmly showing Aang and Kuei why he revoked his unconditional support for the Harmony Restoration Movement, so why should we expect any “hero” to face any criticism?

Ukano

How come Ukano was willing to work with Azula to restore Ozai for the sake of his nation and family when not only is Fire Lord Zuko indebted to him for life due to Mai saving him at the Boiling Rock, not to mention the fact that Zuko offered him a job when his governorship disappeared after Bumi retook Omashu, but also when one of the first things Ozai would do after taking back power is killing Mai for her treason?

(In my opinion, it is clear that after Zuko’s defection, the only acceptable punishment for treason under Ozai's regime was death, with no chance for life in prison like Iroh had.)

What is Ukano’s plan for dealing with a fully realized Avatar considering that Ozai with Sozin’s Comet got utterly stomped by Aang? I don’t think it is wise, or in line with someone leading a vast seditious conspiracy, to rely on Azula getting another cheap shot on Aang, or the Fire Warriors managing to get one over Aang using their smokebending.

Also, as a matter of storytelling, why should I root for his heel-face turn and acceptance of his prison sentence when one of the last things he does before being sent to prison is subtly imply that he was manipulated/coerced by Azula?

For in-universe, didn’t Ukano have several opportunities to tell Aang and Zuko about the kidnapped kids? And out-of-universe, even if Azula is extremely dangerous, it is kind of pathetic to hear a grown-ass man essentially be bullied by a bunch of mentally ill teenagers.

I mean, how would you react if someone in a similar situation tried pulling Ukano’s excuse? 

Would you show sympathy towards them, or instead viciously mock them?

But in any case, how am I supposed to feel that, even if Ukano has to go to jail, he at least did good by standing up to Azula and her followers, if Ukano tries to deflect blame by blaming Azula?

I mean, would Zuko's apology to the Gaang during The Western Air Temple feel as sincere if he blamed Azula’s manipulations and the promise of his father’s love for why he acted the way he did during The Crossroads of Destiny, even if they were valid explanations for his behavior? 

Would the audience have so readily accepted Zuko into the Gaang if Zuko didn’t take sole responsibility for his actions?

Ozai and Ursa (The Letter)

Note: Ursa is a kidnapping victim who is highly implied to never had consensual sex with Ozai, and thus her kids were highly likely to be conceived without her consent. All that trauma, combined with the fact that Ozai had all the power in the household in addition to his emotional and, heavily implied by the artwork, physical abuse, explains almost all of her bad parenting decisions and behavior towards Azula and Zuko...except for what I am going to describe below down below in my opinion. So the point of this is just to make it clear that I don’t blame Ursa for what went wrong in Zuko’s or Azula’s life, for the responsibility solely lies on Azulon and Ozai’s shoulders. I am just criticizing one particular choice she made in-universe and the creators’ out-of-universe decision to make her act in that fashion.

Most people talk about the letter in relation to Zuko and how it affects him, but I have a very hot take: the letter only really exists to allow Azula to be a credible antagonist during The Search considering her still mentally broken state and the fact that Zuko, Katara, and/or Aang were keeping eyes on her at all times. 

That and to also facilitate a means for Azula to get free of her restraints and eventually escape Zuko’s custody, because without blackmailing Zuko, Azula would have never been free, unbound, and treated with dignity.

Also, the letter serves to unnecessarily woobify Zuko, but that is not the focus of this post.

So with that in mind, let's delve into what that letter implies Ursa and Ozai’s characters.

In regards to Ursa, I find it hard to believe that someone who basically begged for her son’s life and constantly shielded him to the best of her abilities would reckless endanger his life by writing a letter that claimed Ikem, not Ozai, was his father.

For Ursa, out of all people, should know that she, along with Zuko, only have value to the Royal Family if Zuko is Ozai’s kid. And that if Ozai was so inclined, he could have used the letter to kill her and/or Zuko.

And even if it is a hundred percent Ozai’s fault that he used the letter as an excuse to essentially treat Zuko as a bastard, though personally I think Ozai just continued treated Zuko the way he previously did and just said that to further emotionally abuse Ursa, why would Ursa ever give Ozai the means to (further) torment her beloved son? Especially when she knows Ozai, and most likely Azulon considering how quick he was to order Zuko’s death to punish Ozai, has it out for Zuko?

In regards to Ozai, the letter, and what he did and didn’t do with it, makes him even more incompetent than what previous canon suggested.

For even if he couldn’t have used the letter during Azulon’s reign to get rid of Zuko and/or Ursa due to, for example, fear of retaliation from Azulon due to being a “cuck”, how come he didn’t use the letter to disinherit Zuko, instead of burning Zuko and having to cover it up?

Or, after Zuko went full traitor, how come Ozai didn’t use the letter to ensure that Zuko could never inherit the throne...at least through his claim as Ozai’s son (Iroh could have adopted Zuko and then abdicated in favor of him)?

Iroh

I understand that Iroh is technically retired and doesn’t have to do anything. Moreover, I understand that the adults in child/teenage led action-adventure series can’t really be as proactive and/or responsible as IRL adults due to the constraints of the genre.

But Iroh is still involved in politics as seen by his willingness to serve as Zuko’s temporary Fire Lord when Zuko is gone. Moreover, Legacy of The Fire Nation does say that Iroh is still a White Lotus Grandmaster during the period the White Lotus becomes the Avatar world’s version of the UN Peacekeepers.

So with that in mind, we can criticize his lack of proactiveness in regards to Azula. For even taking away the assumption that Iroh offered the White Lotus’ help to find Azula after she ran into the Forgetful Valley, how come after Azula has been found to be masterminding the Kemurikage kidnappings, or after Azula revealed her plan to turn Zuko into a dictator, Iroh didn’t drop everything, call up the White Lotus, and lead a manhunt to find the Fire Warriors?

For not only is Azula the biggest threat to world peace and balance in their world, but also is the biggest threat to Zuko's throne and safety. Especially after she eliminated Iroh and Zuko’s one trump card over her (lightning redirection) and is arguably way stronger, at least as a combatant, than Ozai ever was.

For someone who lost his son and watched his beloved nephew get abused due to the effects of the Fire Nation’s imperialism and authoritarianism, why doesn’t Iroh make sure that the horrors of the past stay in the past? Especially when he has the power, means, and connections this time around to make sure no one ever gets hurt again due to the Fire Nation's imperialist and authoritarian ideologies?

Ty Lee

In regards to The Search, Ty Lee was mistreated by Zuko when he first took Azula out without asking her or Mai about their feelings, and then further mistreated when he had the gall to lose her without granting her and Mai, along with their families, 24/7 protection.

Though if Ty Lee is as much of a chi-blocking master as the narrative implies, when she warned Zuko that Azula’s chi-blocking was wearing off, she should have also warned him that there would be a period of time that Azula would be super flexible and have full control of her muscles and chi.

For even if Ty Lee had no idea that Azula had apparently learned instant lightning in the time she spent in the asylum, Azula is still capable of short bursts of fire that could have disoriented Zuko, leading to a similar outcome as to what actually happened in canon once Azula had the above period of time.

But moving on to something much more concrete, Ty Lee remembering the Fire Nation Palace’s secret tunnels and being able to locate the one leading to Azula’s secret lair has some very negative implications about her.

For even if she says it in a really roundabout way, The Sisters comics has Ty Lee say that the reason she joined the Kyoshi Warriors was to make up for the imperialism she helped perpetuate under Azula’s command.

Moreover, the Kyoshi Warriors agreed to be Zuko’s bodyguards in order to help protect the fragile peace that the Gaang helped establish at the end of the war. And in order to do that means that they have to be able to secure the Fire Nation Royal Palace to the best of their abilities.

However, despite knowing about the secret tunnels, Ty Lee apparently never mentioned them in the year that the Kyoshi Warriors had been in the Fire Nation.

(The Promise takes place one year after Sozin’s Comet Part 4; The Kyoshi Warriors become Zuko’s bodyguards during The Promise; The Search takes place one year after The Search with the main plot of Smoke and Shadow taking place a couple of months after the climax of The Search).

And this leads to not only the Fire Warriors being able to walk into the palace and almost kidnap Kiyi unmolested (in fact, if it wasn’t for their smoke, the Fire Warriors would have kidnapped Kiyi without anyone being wiser), but also for an entire conspiracy to operate right under their noses.

Not to mention what could have happened if the Fire Warriors were a little less mentally ill and used the fact that they had access to secret tunnels that no one knew about to do the obvious: carry out covert assassinations of all their enemies, which, depending on the time, could include important foreign figures like Aang, Katara, and Sokka.

Making things worse is that just like Mai really wasn’t challenged narratively or by anyone in-universe for her treason, Ty Lee is never challenged by the narrative or by her fellow Warriors, Zuko, and/or Aang for knowing about a gaping security hole and not telling anyone about it earlier.

I mean, the lack of knowledge of the secret tunnels could help, partially at least, explain why Zuko faced so many assassination attempts like Kori’s that got frighteningly close to killing him. 

For instead of his original guard being disloyal and/or incompetent, they instead could have had a lack of knowledge about the tunnels, and thus didn’t know how to properly seal them off and/or monitor them for threats.

Like I understand Azula being free probably impacted her ability to think rationally, for Ty Lee all but says she hasn’t had a peaceful night of sleep ever since Azula got out, but it doesn’t excuse the fact that she forgot to tell anyone about this security gap beforehand.

For doesn’t Ty Lee have a professional and moral duty to protect the Fire Nation Royal Palace and the Fire Nation Royal Family to the best of her abilities?

Kei Lo

I don’t hold him to the same standards as the heroes and outright adults in this analysis since most of Rebound and Smoke and Shadow was about his heel-face turn and redemption arc.

But there is one thing that does bother me about post-redemption Kei Lo’s actions, and that is when he attacked Azula in the Garden of Tranquil Souls without any apparent plan and got himself turned into a (brief) hostage.

For I understand that it was a moment to not only show how much far Kei Lo had changed, but also to showcase Azula's evilness by mocking Mai’s taste in men and implicitly threatening his life for daring to touch her/interrupt her bullying, assault, and psychological torture of Mai “dialogue” with Mai.

But looking at Kei Lo’s actions from the bigger picture, they don’t really make sense, or paint a good picture of Kei Lo at all.

For Kei Lo had not only seen Mai defeat an entire NOS hideout with a toddler strapped to her back, but also was the last person she fought before she left (spoiler alert: it was a total curb stomp battle).

Moreover, during the time he spent dating Mai and spent with Zuko and Aang, it is highly unlikely that the topic of Azula didn’t come up, even if there were no comic panels showing us this (when you have limited space, you can’t waste panels on “superfluous” dialogue), and therefore should have known that, just like Mai is way out of his league in terms of combat prowess, Azula is similarly beyond his abilities.

In addition, even if he didn’t believe what people mostly likely told him about Azula, he should have believed his own eyes as he watched Azula basically toy with Mai despite Mai actually fighting with true lethal intent.

(I know some people might disagree with me, but I think the art makes it clear that Mai was trying to kill Azula, and not just pin her).

And finally, instead of rationally thinking and trying to get Zuko and/or Aang’s attention so someone way more equipped could rescue Mai, he instead charges at Azula. But instead of using his knife, or trying to get Azula into a chokehold, Kei Lo instead just shoves her, allowing Azula to not only shoot him with concussive lightning, but also then hold him at firepoint, thus forcing Mai, who had been able to stand up to Azula, albeit terribly, to basically beg for Kei Lo’s life and leave herself vulnerable to Azula’s attacks as well.

For I know they are not analogous situations, but what Kei Lo did reminds me of dumbasses who try to intervene in active shooter situations, thinking they can be the hero, but end up making things worse due to being taken hostage, if they aren’t outright killed, making a peacefully resolution that much harder for the relevant authorities.

Likewise, Kei Lo, by getting himself taken hostage, could have, and should have as far as he knew, led to a nasty outcome. 

For as far as he knows, Azula is a sadistic, seditious, child killing, child kidnapping, genocidal domestic terrorist who has no qualms about killing or cruelly treating “friends” and family. And so what is not to say that Azula wouldn’t have tortured him to get back at Mai and/or tortured Mai in front of him, forcing Mai to take her cruel punishment in order to prevent Azula from killing her boyfriend?

Kei Lo is very lucky that Zuko intervened when he did, and is even more lucky that Azula was more interested in making her brother “strong” than really hurting anyone.

But instead of showing everyone berating him after the kids had been rescued, there instead was no narrative time spent at all. 

Which leads me to believe that that particular moment happened, in part, just to showcase how vile Azula is, despite in not being in line, in my opinion, with the conscientious and aware person Kei Lo seemed to be growing into, as seen when he broke up with Mai when he realized that, despite her words otherwise, she could never get over Zuko.

Sokka and Katara

There isn’t much to say other than they were the only ones who interacted with Comics!Azula who treated her like the threat she.

That and it was obvious they were written out of Smoke and Shadow before Azula's involvement with the kidnappings was revealed because if they were still in the Fire Nation when it happened, Azula and her girl gang would be back in jail instead of remaining menaces to society. 

Or at least they would have had to work much harder during the climax (ex. The Fire Warriors, including Azula, would have had to fight with lethal intent).

Toph

Other than the assumption that Toph helped Zuko search for Azula after the climax of The Search, all I have to say is that there is a good reason why Toph has not really shown up in any of the comics Azula has been in. 

And that is because Toph would have never tolerated any of Azula’s bullshit, or treated her with kid gloves instead of the genocidal war criminal who is still trying to negatively influence Fire Nation politics that she is as of current canon.

Other World Leaders

Note: Yes, there is no evidence that Azula was part of the war council meeting that ordered the attack on the Northern Water Tribe. But considering how comfortable Azula was in the “let's burn down the Earth Kingdom” war council meeting, plus the fact that Iroh thought it was appropriate for a 13 year old Zuko to partake in a war council meeting, I don’t think it is that much of a leap to assume that Azula was part of the war council meeting that ordered the Northern Water Tribe attack.

From Kuei’s perspective, Azula led a coup that ended with him in exile before suggesting and helping plan a genocide of his people. From Hakoda’s perspective, Azula almost killed both of his children several times. From Chief Arnook’s perspective, Azula was part of the war council that decided to not only invade his country, but also kill the Moon Spirit, which indirectly forced his beloved daughter to sacrifice her life to restore said spirit.

So once Azula gets into Zuko’s custody, shouldn’t they have established monitoring protocols to make sure that Zuko, who had less than six months ago willingly worked with her to conqueror Ba Sing Se, as well help her kill Aang, keeps one of the most dangerous war criminals in their world locked up while also establishing contingency plans to deal with scenarios in which Azula escapes?

Especially since Aang took mercy on her and didn’t remove her bending, meaning that Azula could grow stronger if she ever escapes (though I guess being in an asylum does allow for exponential growth anyway...) and eventually be able to get a cheap shot on Aang again before violently retaking the throne and restarting the Hundred Year War?

But instead of doing that, they instead naively trust that Zuko will keep Azula locked up without any check-ups (none of Zuko’s interactions with Kuei or Hadoka ever imply the topic of Azula’s status ever comes up). And while I understand the meta-reason for this (so it is more believable that Azula could remain an undetectable fugitive), it still has the potential to make them all look really, really bad.

For what happens, for example, if the Fire Warriors create an international false flag terrorist attack that gets people from the other nations killed, in addition to Fire Nationals, that leads to a short skirmish that gets even more people killed before the Fire Warriors are found to be the true culprits and dealt with?

For even if they manage to capture the Fire Warriors, how are the world leaders going to explain to their subjects/citizens the lack of security measures they took in ensuring that Azula stayed in jailed, or, if she ever escaped, the lack of plans to make sure she was apprehended as swiftly as possible?

Moreover, how are they going to explain the fact that they naively wholeheartedly trusted Zuko to make sure that Azula remained in prison, or, if she escaped, that he would tell them and ask for their help if needed in apprehending her, instead of trying to cover up the fact that it was his selfish desire to find Mommy that gave the most dangerous person on the planet the means to escape? 

Especially after the Yu Dao fiasco showed that Zuko might not be the most trustworthy or reliable partner?

Do any of them take their responsibilities seriously!? No, and that is why the Red Lotus had a point, for why should a bunch of clowns be in charge of nation-states if they can’t even use state power to properly protect people?

Bending and Combat

One of the more endearing things about Avatar is the fact that its combat and magic system is based on IRL martial arts. And this is reflected in the fact that all of the named prodigies except for Katara and Sokka, who likely the greatest prodigies in the franchise in terms of speed of skill acquisition and mastery, have undergone years of rigorous training to be the master benders and fighters that they are shown to be in the show.

Moreover, the show explains that bending and fighting are not just martial arts, but also are spiritual practices as well, and that the more spiritually in tune you are, the stronger your combat prowess will be. And that the less spiritual and/or the more out of balance you are, the weaker your combat prowess will be. 

For not only does your mental state affect things like your breathing or tactics, but also your willingness to incorporate other styles of bending/fighting into yours as well.

And the show makes it very clear that the strongest and best benders/fighters incorporate all the other styles of bending.

Finally, the show, whenever it introduced new bending/fighting techniques and/or power ups, made sure they didn’t contradict what was previously established (ex. metalbending is possible only because most metal still has pieces of unrefined earth in them; chi-blocking is possible because everything has chi in it; etc.), or gave them logical weaknesses to make sure they weren’t completely game breaking (ex. Lightning redirection does negate lightning generation, but you need to be in the proper stance and make sure the lightning never touches your heart, or else you will still die; chi-blocking only works if you can touch someone; etc.).

But the comics, in an effort to keep Azula a credible threat, seem to disregard all of the previously established rules and themes about bending, and in doing so leaves the Avatar franchise in a worse off state.

For why was Azula, after spending at least a year in an asylum where it can be presumed she wasn’t able to train like she used to, didn’t have anywhere near the same resources, and went further into psychosis, able to retain her physicality and remain the hyper-athletic fighter she was during the war?

Moreover, how did Azula get so strong and fast during her time in the asylum, and later in the wilderness as a fugitive, to the point that she is arguably the best H2H fighter in Avatar?

For not only did Azula manage to hold off a serious and in armor post-war Suki and Ty Lee despite wearing a billowing cape and a mask that blocked vision in her left eye, but also managed to consistently and causally dodge Mai’s knives despite the latter actually trying to kill her.

Not to mention how she managed to overpower Zuko, who was arguably the second best sword fighter in the franchise before having two years to add to his sword fighting prowess, in their short fire-sword fight in the crypt to the point that Zuko thought he could only prevent his death by convincing Azula that no one would ever accept her on the throne.

Zuko! You know, the person who literally has to be knocked out and/or dying before giving up in a fight, did not believe he could get out of Azula’s hold before she presumably stabbed him to death.

How come Azula’s fire managed to not only get stronger (ex. during the war, if she released her fire from her control, it became orange, but after the asylum, it stays blue), but also why was she able to develop several new lightning techniques, several of which where completely unseen in the franchise, or hadn’t been seen for centuries as far as the reader was concerned (ex. concussive lightning; instant lightning; quick charge lightning; lightning sphere; a bootleg chidori; instant area of effect lightning; lightning zaps; the ability to split and control her stream of lightning after she has fired it; lightning redirection)?

And speaking of new lightning techniques, how did Azula manage to learn the lightning redirection technique on her own? For none of Iroh, Zuko, and Aang ever showed her the technique, and Azula only saw the technique like four times (Iroh on the ship during The Avatar State; Zuko during Sozin’s Comet; Zuko twice during The Search).

And as far as I remember, the TV show never implied or showed that Azula was a Goku-level prodigy in that she only had to look at technique only a handful of times to completely master it and/or develop a counter to it.

Not to mention the fact that Azula is still a hyper-nationalist who still has no respect for the other nations, let alone their bending arts.

Like have you seen all the times she calls Sokka and Katara snow peasants, despite the two of them technically being her equal politically and Katara not only defeating her during Sozin’s Comet, but also almost defeating her during The Crossroads of Destiny as well? Does comics!Azula seem like the person to willingly incorporate waterbending principles into her bending, which is necessary to redirect lightning?

Also, what the hell is smokebending?! For I know in the Kyoshi novels, Kyoshi bends smoke as part of her first attempt at firebending, and that Aang generated smoke during The Firebending Master, so smokebending is a subset of firebending as the seeming precursor to firebending itself.

But how did the Fire Warriors manage to learn how to psychically generate and manipulate smoke?

Moreover, how did the Fire Warriors manage to learn how to use smokebending while also using their firebending at the same time? 

For as far as I know, other than Azula in the Smoke and Shadow Omnibus Cover, there is no other instance as far as I know of a non-Avatar bending an element and a sub-element at the same time. So how were they able to do so?

And how come Aang and Zuko, two master firebenders, one of which is also a master airbender, were not able to do anything about the Fire Warrior’s smoke? 

For shouldn’t they have been able to use their bending to clear the smoke instead of either choking on it (Aang) or allowing Azula to escape despite being a crypt with only one exit (Zuko)?

But I think the most frustrating thing is how strong the Fire Warriors are. For yes, I understand that the Gaang aren’t the only prodigies in the world, and that for a children’s action-adventure series, it is hard to write conflicts if the heroes face no physical challenges whatsoever.

But there is no justification both in-universe or out of it for why the Fire Warriors are so strong both in terms of bending and athleticism. Especially considering the fact they were heavily implied to have been kept in the same conditions that Azula was, and thus shouldn’t have been able to train to an elite master level, and the fact that they too were wearing long billowing capes with their left eyes blocked by their wood masks.

In fact, this ties into my next point...

Fire Warriors and the Asylum System

How was Azula able to break out six girls from her old asylum without Zuko finding out? For even assuming that Azula killed everyone there, eventually someone had to have come and find out about the slaughter. Especially when, assuming he really did try to find Azula, one of the things Zuko would have done is put extra guards there since it was likely that Azula would try to return there.

But instead of getting an answer on how Azula was able to break them out without anyone finding out, other than the meta-textual answer of Azula needed a new girl gang and the only people who she could have plausibly convinced considering her living conditions of the past year were her fellow asylum inmates, instead all we are left with is speculation, some of which implies some very nasty things about Zuko’s reign and the Fire Nation. 

Like the idea that the asylum system remained in control of Ozai loyalists and are currently weaponizing the inmates to create a shadow army to overthrow Zuko using the group of people Zuko and his regime would be least likely to suspect.

And speaking of speculation, what are the Fire Warriors’ motivations and/or goals in regards to joining Azula’s ongoing seditious domestic terrorism plot? For I understand that Azula needs new henchwomen in order to carry out her plots since it would break suspension of disbelief to have Azula carry them out by herself, but neither non-ableist explanation I could think of makes any sense.  

For either they are scared of her and/or being manipulated, but that doesn’t make sense since Azula no longer has any political power, and thus they can ignore her once she breaks them out. Not to mention Azula doesn’t seem to have regained all of her mental faculties (ex. her Mochi rant during Smoke and Shadow and how her eyes bulge out like crazy!Azula in The Search at the end of it). 

Or because she became non-ironic friends with them, which doesn’t make sense since Azula during her time in the asylum was clearly not in the mental state to take care of herself, let alone make friends not relying on her status or fear mongering. Especially when The Search has Azula blame “Ursa” for making Zuko, Mai, and Ty Lee stop fearing her, heavily implying Azula still thinks fear is a good way to maintain relationships.

Which leaves us with the ableist answer (sorry for the language, it is to get my point across): they are crazy bitches, and crazy bitches don’t need any reason to do harm!

And do you know how harmful that is to IRL mentally ill people? For mentally ill people have had to fight really, really hard to fight the association that being mentally ill makes you evil or prone to evil. And it is only recently they have been able to fight back against such associations thanks in part due to positive representations in various artistic works.

So it makes me really disappointed that Avatar, a franchise that handles several difficult topics (ex. child abuse, rescue parents, imperialism/colonialism, child soldiers, physical disabilities, war orphans, sexism, misogyny, hyper-nationalism, genocide, abusive sibling relationships, abusive friendships, etc.) with such grace that even children can clearly understand and learn from them, engaged in such harmful stereotyping. Especially when one of the most highly regarded arcs in LoK is Korra overcoming her PTSD from being poisoned with mercury over the course of several years and with the help of several people.

For at least Azula, with all the cries of ableism about her treatment in the comics and other post-canon works like Legacy of The Fire Nation, has reasons for being evil other than her mental illness. 

Like the fact that she was indoctrinated and groomed from birth to be an active member of the ruling family of an authoritarian, genocidal, imperialist empire.

But what are the Fire Warrior’s reasons for helping Azula outside of being mentally ill?

Themes (The Search)

To be quite honest, I really don’t think The Search has a theme since it mostly exists to answer the question of what happened to Ursa. So I don’t think there is much to analyze or criticize in terms of themes.

Themes (Smoke and Shadow)

However, Smoke and Shadow does have a central theme: fear, or more specifically, getting over the fear of: Ozai (for Ursa), Azula, and/or being a tyrant (in Zuko’s case).

And in regards to Ozai, I think Smoke and Shadow actually did a good job of showing Ursa getting over her fear of Ozai. In fact, I think their confrontation in Ozai’s jail cell, with Ozai being reduced to a mad dog after seeing he has no hold on Ursa anymore, is one of the few good things that come out of the comics.

But in regards to the other two themes, which are heavily tied to each in my opinion, are butchered by the need to keep Azula a credible villain.

For I think fear does serve a valid purpose: to make sure we avoid situations and/or people that are likely to put ourselves or the people we love in danger. 

And boy do a lot of people have a lot to fear about post-Smoke and Shadow.

Mai and Ty Lee have every reason to continue to fear Azula after Azula basically humiliated them in combat and made it very clear that they are only still alive because she wants them to be. Not to mention in Mai’s case, Azula basically bullied Ukano into action, causing her father to eventually have to go to jail for a long time, and kidnapped her brother before put him in a holding cell for a good period of time.

Aang has ever reason to continue to fear Azula considering she has several lightning attacks that can bypass lightning redirection, the fact that Azula herself knows lightning redirection, the fact that Azula has smokebending powers similar to the Fire Warriors that knocked him out cold, and that Azula has successful shown that she can cause Zuko to fall down the path of his ancestors, meaning that Azula could eventually succeed and indirectly wipe out everything Aang and his friends fought for during the war.

Zuko has ever reason to fear Azula considering that: she basically broke into the palace and operated a conspiracy right under his nose; she kidnapped a bunch of kids, including their half-sister, and he could do nothing about it until Ty Lee remembered the secret passageway; that she has taken away his trump card over her and has essentially become the strongest firebender in history; that he is only alive because Azula has plans for him; and that she is still loose and plotting the next step in her dastardly plot to remake him in her image.

Moreover, Zuko has every reason to fear turning into a tyrant since he not only has he failed to capture the Fire Warriors post-Smoke and Shadow, but also failed to show that he won’t fall prey to the Fire Warriors manipulations and assaults other than give a flowery, but ultimately meaningless, apology speech at the end of Smoke and Shadow.

For he doesn’t order a sweep of his government to make sure that there aren’t any more mavericks like Constable Sung in his ranks. 

He doesn’t try to craft policies to ensure the various Ozai loyalists groups can’t take advantage of alienated people like Kei Lo to fill their ranks with people willing to die since they have nothing in life. 

He doesn’t institute any safeguards or protocols to make sure that if he has to ever institute authoritarian measures ever again, he does so because it was the best and logical decision possible, and not out of fear. 

He hasn’t undergone training (ex. combine his firebending with his sword skills as is implied in the “Old Friends” artwork) to close the gap that has once again opened between him and Azula so that if he ever encounters her again, his life won’t be in her hands once again.

Hell! People like Iroh, Noren and Ursa have a lot to fear considering that Azula easily breached the palace, one of the most secure places in the world, and probably has other means of getting in undetected, even if the tunnels are now known, since she was responsible for evacuating Caldera City during the The Day of Black Sun, and has demonstrated continued willingness to not only hurt Zuko, but also Kiyi as well.

Moreover, assuming they ever find out where the other Fire Warriors came from, they will, and should considering their eras’ lack of knowledge on mental health, fear the inmates in the asylum system. 

For if six of them were willing to join Azula and were really strong benders who could even knock out a fully realized Aang, what will happen, hypothetically, when Azula builds herself an army out of the asylum inmates she and her warriors break out of the various asylums in the country?

So I guess what I am trying to say is that, by keeping Azula a villain, Smoke and Shadow undermined its own theme of “we have to learn to live with fear and never let it rule us”.

For only fools would not live in fear of Azula and the Fire Warriors until they are apprehended, and I don’t think any of the characters mentioned in this section are big enough fools to underestimate what Azula and the Fire Warriors can do and what they are willing to do to achieve their goals.

Conclusion

Azula was one of the best villains in Western Animation, and part of that is because the characters and the narrative treated her like the threat she was, and that, even if her schemes did need some good fortune (ex. Sokka vouching for the Kyoshi Warriors before leaving with Aang to go his father), they still relied on various characters acting like they did normally, and not in OOC fashion (ex. Kuei is an airheaded fool, and so it is not out of character for Kuei to forget that he told Azula about the DoBS invasion plan and/or tell anyone associated with the plan that he spilled the beans before going on exile) just so she could win. 

Moreover, Azula doesn’t display new abilities when the plot demands it just to remain a threat; all she does is exploit her previously established abilities and intelligence/cunning.

For example, the Avatar is slowly floating up in the air in his Avatar State that is previously established to turn him into a berserking force of nature. Ok. I’ll just take advantage of the fact that he is exposed to shoot him dead with lightning before he can harm my allies, my friends, my brother, and/or me.

However, in the comics, Azula, despite remaining just as big as a threat, if not bigger, is not treated as such by either the narrative or the characters she interacts with. Moreover, Azula and her henchwomen frequently come up with new powers just so they remain a credible threat. And it not only ruins Azula as a villain, but also the characters that she has the misfortune of interacting with directly or indirectly.

For it really hurt to see a fully realized Aang essentially get knocked out by some faceless goons.

It really hurt to see Mai break up with Zuko because he visited Ozai without telling her, and then hide from him the existence of the New Ozai Society and the fact that her father was leading it. Not to mention, when confronted for her treason, seeing her avoid owning her mistake before everyone unceremoniously dropped the subject.

It really hurt to see post-war Suki and Ty Lee, two of the best H2H fighters who have learned each other's techniques, essentially get fodderized by a half-blind Azula. Or to see Azula learn lightning redirection with no indication of how she managed to learn the technique. Or to see her invent concussive lightning because the comics want her to spam her iconic lightning at everyone like the villain she is, but don’t want to deal with the consequences previously established in the TV show or in LoK.

It made me angry to see Zuko keep giving Azula second chance after second chance when Azula deserves no chances as long as she is on her current path. Especially when she keeps on hurting the people Zuko supposedly loves, and the subjects he supposedly cares about.

Anyway, before my rant gets too long, the point is that not that Azula can’t remain a good villain. For even I, as someone who believes an Azula redemption would be compelling, believe there are ways to keep Azula a credible antagonist in line with what was shown in the TV show.

But if this is the way Azula is going to be continued to be written as a villain, as a living plot device, I don’t want her to remain a villain. 

Especially when the bad writing surrounding villain!Azula starts to ruin other characters' previously established characterization, as well as previously established world building and lore.

[zuko-always-lies]

Why Azula Staying a Villain Will Only Lead To Bad Stories Part 2: Negative Effects on Other Characters, World Building, Lore, and Thematic Expression[Submitted by justanotherthrowaway1950]

Part 1 Link: https://zuko-always-lies.tumblr.com/post/662081384160067584/why-azula-staying-a-villain-will-only-lead-to-bad#notes

I know already in part 1 how I briefly mentioned how keeping Azula a villain causes everyone to start acting stupid and incompetent (and thus denigrating them and their arcs/character growth) whenever Azula is involved so Azula can remain a credible threat despite The Gaang all being masters in their respective fields and having the resources of several nation-states at their beck and call plus a PMC (The White Lotus).

But I understand that I didn’t go into details and so my analysis was lackluster at best and very controversial at worse. So I am going to go into detail based on importance and with that said here I go.

Zuko (The Search)

Realistically, other than some minor complaints most people agree that TV!Zuko’s arc is one of the greatest in Western Animation. For the tale of someone who had at times almost given into his abuse and conditioning but, with the help of loving Uncle, his travels, and mercy/compassion showed to him by his enemies/future friends, he had managed to overcome it and start the journey of not only becoming a better person, but also help his country heal after several decades of propaganda and brainwashing.

And part of said arc is what he comes to realize about Azula: that she is not worth emulating; that she is abusive to him and the people he cares about like Mai and Ty Lee; and that she (a genocidal authoritarian colonizer) needs to be stopped and locked up by any means, even if it hurts him. For it is the only way that the world and his country can achieve peace and balance once again…that is until Azula starts showing signs that either she has realized the error of her ways or that she wants to take a new path, but needs help finding it.

But, in an effort to allow Azula to become a villain again, Bryke has Zuko engage in several actions that not only betray his character growth, but worse, aren’t really explained and negatively reflect on him.

Like, during that conference concerning Yu Dao where Zuko “realizes” that the sorry state of his nuclear family negatively reflects on him, why would Zuko care suddenly about what his subjects think of him? 

Did Zuko forget that basically he not only betrayed his nation and caused them to lose a war they had already won, but is also forcing them to pay reparations (as is said in North & South)? 

And that he is going to remain a pariah in his subject’s eyes until he manages to undo the decades of brainwashing considering his only real allies are foreigners, Iroh (who is just as much of a traitor in the FN’s eyes as Zuko), and Mai (who committed treason that led to the FN’s lost) & Ty Lee (who did commit a less extreme version of treason but immediately post-war left to join a foregin military/PMC, which would look suspect in the populance’s eyes)?

But things really start to go sideways when he goes to Azula’s asylum to get Azula to extract intel from Ozai about Ursa, allows the two to talk alone, and foolishly wheels Azula alone while promising to move her back into the palace.

Like when he went to the asylum, how come he didn’t ask them about Azula’s treatment and whether it was safe to take her out to see Ozai (her abuser and co-conspirator), let alone take her back to the palace? Maybe he would have found out she was being abused in the asylum and he could have done something about it so Azula and her fellow inmates could be treated better.

But maybe not considering it is Azula and she deserves to be abused for making Zuko’s life hard from the moment she was born.

Like why would he allow Azula and Ozai to talk alone considering their conniving natures and the fact that they are the two biggest threats to his regime (at least politically)?

Why would he wheel Azula alone, especially after Ty Lee told him that the chi-blocking is wearing off? For I know this depends on how much Ty Lee knows about chi-blocking and its effects (I’ll talk about this more in Ty Lee’s section), but Azula has already shown that she is still hostile/violent towards Zuko. That in combination with her previous showings of being able to escape nearly any situation she finds herself in should have made Zuko wary of being alone with Azula when the chi-blocking wears off instead of trying to have a soft brother-sister moment.

And then that whole sequence where Azula breaks free, and manages to burn every single letter in Ozai’s chest, save for the “Zuko is Ikem’s bastard” letter before blackmailing him into going on the search free, unbound, and with dignity. *Sigh*

Like why would Zuko shoot a fireball of the perfect size and speed that would allow Azula to break free of the chains on her legs instead of, I don’t know, calling the rest of his elite guard to subdue Azula? Especially after she has managed to bullshit instant lighting out of nowhere and thus has tricks that Zuko does not know about?

After Zuko had caught up to her and found out that she had supposedly burned every single letter and tried blackmailing him into going on the search for Ursa free and unbound, how come Zuko didn’t pat her down? For even if he had no way of knowing that she had that “bastard” letter, wouldn’t it be wise to check if she hid any letter on her body? 

I mean this is one of the most trickiest characters in the franchise so why not be extra cautious?

And the whole blackmail situation? Look I understand why Zuko agreed to Azula’s terms for who doesn’t want to find out what happened to their beloved mother? But doesn’t Zuko have a responsibility and duty to the world and his subjects to make sure that Azula remains in jail until she at least tries to reform herself? 

I know this sounds callous, but the moment Azula tried blackmailing him, he should have told her that finding Ursa was not worth letting Azula free and should have jailed her again. For why run the risk that Azula could do something horrible or escape? I mean what could go wrong if she escaped…?

Also, even if she had to be free, unbound, and travel with dignity, why didn’t Zuko have a small platoon with him? For even if he did have The Avatar and the world’s greatest waterbender by his side, shouldn’t Zuko have taken precautions in the event that Aang and Katara got separated from them, leaving just him (I know Zuko is stronger than Crazy!Azula but not to the point that she couldn’t cheapshot him) and Sokka (I know he is a badass, but as of current canon he is still weaker than Crazy!Azula) with her?

But most galling is the fact that he made this decision unilaterally without asking Mai and Ty Lee for their opinion, or, if he was adamant about agreeing to Azula’s terms, not providing them with 24/7 security until Azula was safely back in the asylum and/or prison.

For Azula was not just Zuko’s abuser, she was Mai and Ty Lee’s abusive friend and commander before almost killing Mai (The Boiling Rock Part 2 script said Azula was going to generate lightning) and then throwing the two into jail for life.

Considering that Mai saved Zuko’s life, that Ty Lee saved Mai (who is the love of Zuko’s life) and is part of Zuko’s current protection team, and that the both of them are closest thing to childhood friends that Zuko has, why didn’t Zuko treat them with the respect they deserved? Especially since post-redemption Zuko is someone who is supposed to be empathetic and caring?

But moving on to the rest of The Search, how come after Zuko found out about the “bastard” letter, how come he didn’t burn it? For even if he did want to find out the truth, isn’t it more important that he prevents a civil war by not allowing his “illegitimacy” to become public knowledge. At least until he can give power to Iroh in the case that he was truly a bastard?

Or, even if he didn’t want to burn the letter until Ursa confirmed the accuracy of it, why would he allow Azula to keep it on her person? I mean, what would have happened if she had managed to escape with it on her person? 

Sunshine and roses or a bloody civil war that threatens to undo everything Zuko and his friends fought for in the war?

Which ties into my last point about Zuko’s behavior in The Search (and to segue way into Smoke and Shadow) why the hell did Zuko not chase after Azula?!

For even if he would be risking his life and potentially Noriko’s, couldn’t Zuko have seen the danger in letting Azula free? Especially considering as far as he knew she still had the letter on her person?

Or, once Ursa had her face and memories restored, how come he didn’t leave Katara with Ursa and her family, and search for Azula with Aang and Sokka?

Did Zuko forget that it was all his fault in the first place that his life, as well as Noriko’s, was in danger and that he had a responsibility to the world, his country, and his friends to make sure Azula got back into his custody?

But anyway, even if Azula was still free, at least Azula is no longer a threat to Zuko, his regime, and/or anyone he cares about? 

Right?

Zuko (Smoke & Shadow)

After searching for Azula for a couple of weeks, he goes home and tells Ursa that he “tried.”

But did he really? Cause if we take his word at face value do you know what that means?

(Note: I think his statement could be interpreted to mean that Aang, Katara, Sokka, and him spent weeks searching the old fashioned way. But if that was the case he really didn’t try considering all the options he had. So I am taking Zuko’s statement at face value.)

That means a mentally broken Azula with no allies or no resources, managed to avoid an Avatar State powered seismic sense, June’s shirshu, Toph’s seismic sense, as well as anyone Iroh and/or the White Lotus sent over to help Zuko find his sister.

Do you know what that implies about the competency of everyone involved? How bad that makes them all look?

Anyway moving on, it appears that not only did Zuko fail to issue a public proclamation that Azula had escaped but also failed to give Ty Lee and Mai (and their families) protection. 

For if he had issued a proclamation maybe Azula would have been found earlier instead of being able to break six girls out of her asylum or manipulate the New Ozai Society (NOS)/Safe Nation Society. And in regards to Ty Lee and Mai, even if he felt they didn’t need protection while Azula was free but by his side, the moment she managed to escape him, he should have given them and their families protection.

For Zuko didn’t know that Azula wasn’t seeking revenge; as far as he knew she probably was going to kill everyone between her and the throne, including everyone who betrayed her. And even if Zuko hadn’t seen Mai since their break up, Ty Lee is part of his detail and thus Zuko should have realized how paranoid and scared she was and asked her what he could have done to alleviate her fears as well as her best friend Mai’s as well.

And Zuko still makes similar grave errors even after he finds out that Azula is behind the kidnappings and after he had found out that she had been manipulating the NOS/Safe Nation Society as part of a long-term plan to turn Zuko into a tyrant.

For after Kiyi’s kidnapping, instead of issuing curfews, searching Caldera City citizen’s homes without cause, and engaging in mass jailing of anyone who was on the streets when the Safe Nation Society was rioting he should have called all of the Gaang and had Iroh call the White Lotus before starting an all out manhunt for Azula and her followers.

And he especially should have done this after she told him his plan and he found that Aang had gotten knocked out by Azula’s henchwomen.

For not only has Azula basically gotten rid of his trump card over her (lighting redirection), she has become the GOAT lighting manipulator and H2H fighter in ATLA. That, combined with her and her Fire Warrior’s smoke bending abilities, makes them the biggest threat to Zuko’s throne and world peace. 

Thus, Zuko should have spent every waking moment hunting down Azula instead of doing stupid shit like going on a diplomatic trip to the South Pole. 

For I admit the image of the leaders and the most important people in the four nations eating with each other is a powerful one, but it is still hollow as long as the biggest threat to the post-world order is still roaming free and plotting to bring it to an end.

Aang (The Search)

Right off the bat when Zuko told him about the whole blackmail situation he should have either said ok but call in Toph as well as anyone else who he thought was needed or told Zuko that finding his mother was not worth it since the was a chance, no matter how small, that Azula could escape and put Azula back in the asylum himself.

For yeah, I know the first point sounds OOC but Aang out of all people should know how dangerous Azula is (the lighting wounds on his left foot and back say hi) and thus take the proper precautions. 

And yes, I know the second point sounds really OOC but doesn’t Aang know that his duty isn’t to his friends but to the world? And thus even if it hurts, he has to prioritize the world’s safety over his friend’s well-being and thus not allow arguably the most dangerous (both politically and bending wise) non-Avatar person in the world any chance of escaping?

Especially when it appears the only thing Azula regrets is losing and not any of the actions she took during the war?

But alas, this blatant disregard towards his duty as an Avatar continues not only when he finds that “bastard” letter with Zuko, but also when he fails to give chase to Azula after helping Ursa restore her face and memories.

For even after Zuko refused to burn the letter because he wanted to find out the truth, Aang should have taken the letter and burned it, or at least not let the letter get back into Azula’s hands.

For if that letter ever became public, it would ruin everything that Aang fought for in the war, for either Iroh (an old man who has no inclination to produce heirs as far as canon is concerned) would have to take the throne to prevent Ozai and/or Azula for taking it or it would cause a massive civil war considering Zuko is already on thin ice with his subjects.

And once he had helped Ursa restore her face, he should have entered the Avatar State and used his seismic sense before entering his elemental shield to look for Azula. 

For even if Azula is mentally broken at that point, she is still a Top 4 fire-bender, at worst, in the world with a strong claim to the throne and thus should be his highest priority. Not staying by Zuko’s side, especially now that he has been reunited with his mother and can adequately protect Ursa and her family now.

Aang (Smoke and Shadow)

Assuming that we take Zuko’s comments at face value about how he tried, what does that say about Aang that Azula not only managed to escape his Avatar powered seismic sense, but also that even with his elemental shield providing unmatched mobility, he still couldn’t find Azula?

But moving onto something that requires no assumptions: what he did, or didn’t, do after finding out that Azula was behind the Kemurikage kidnappings due to working with the New Ozai Society.

Why didn’t Aang call in the rest of The Gaang and/or White Lotus to help apprehend Azula? For the worst case scenario has happened and Azula is actively working to restore the old regime (as far as Aang knows at this point), has become the strongest firebender and H2H fighter in the world, and has regained her sanity (as far as he knows).

Considering all the harm Azula has caused, and is currently causing, how come Aang didn’t take every measure to make sure that Azula would get back into their custody as well as make sure the kidnapped kids were in no danger whatsoever?

How come when he went into that room to help rescue the kids, how come he didn’t have his guard up or enter the room with his elemental shield up?

For Aang knows that The Fire Warriors have smoke-bending abilities, it was smoke (combined with volcanic gases) that had killed his predecessor, and that the Fire Warriors are seditious, mass child kidnappers in league with Azula. 

So why didn’t Aang take them seriously?

For if Aang wasn’t protected by the fact that he has to die as a 66 year old man (LoK), after the Fire Warriors had knocked him out, they would have killed him instead of monologuing just long enough for Mai and Kei Lo to save him by knocking out the Warriors.

And then what? A world without a fully realized Avatar that is liable to fall back into war long before his successor could be identified and become a fully realized Avatar. Especially if Azula had killed Zuko in after their tomb shuffle, leaving no one really able to fight back against The Fire Warriors as they consolidate power and restart the 100 year war as far as Aang knows.

But most galling in my opinion is how Aang doesn’t drop everything and lead an all out manhunt for Azula and The Fire Warriors, especially once he found out that their true goal is to break Zuko and make him into a tyrant. For Aang out of all people should know what Azula is capable of when she is “sane.”

So why does he fuck off?! 

What is he going to say when The Fire Warriors do something irredeemable and/or unfixable and so Zuko and him and have to explain to the world community why Azula got free in the first place, why they lied about her involvement with The Kemurikage kidnappings, and why she has managed to avoid capture despite no longer having a nation-state backing her (and her lack of resources in general considering she is a homeless, penniless fugitive), and the fact that she is no match for the Avatar State (or even a bloodlusted 4 element Aang)?

Mai

A lot of people hate on Mai, calling her a bad, high-maintenance girlfriend who doesn’t understand Zuko and an undeveloped character among other things.

But I think TV!show Mai was a loving girlfriend who was trying her best with a boyfriend dealing with trauma on top of his precarious position in court before ultimately betraying her and her country without any warning from her POV.

Moreover, for a tertiary character, I think her arc is short, sweet, and powerful: she was a girl who was heavily implied to be forced into an abusive friendship for the sake of her father’s political career in addition to having to suppress her true emotions.

But, thanks to her boyfriend having the courage to stand up against their abusers, she learns to stand up against her abuser, while also helping her real best friend find the courage to also stand up against their mutual abuser, and is on the path to healing and learning how to establish healthy relationships.

In other words, Mai learns that she doesn’t have to put her head down and ignore her emotions/capacity for love. And it is this realization that allows her to help create the promise for a better day for herself, her boyfriend, her best friend, and the rest of the world, including her own nation once they come to the same realizations as she has.

But instead of continuing on that path, the comics have her completely forget the realization she had and have her behave OOC, in my opinion, in several contexts.

For even if she, like Ty Lee, where completely done dirty by Zuko in that he let Azula free without asking them how they felt about it before losing her and having the gall to not assign protection to them and their families until he recovers Azula, it doesn’t excuse the fact she hid from Zuko/the proper authorities the existence of the New Ozai Society and that her father and “boyfriend” where members of it, with her father leading and funding it as well.

For it is quite obvious what are the out-of-universe explanations for why Mai didn’t go straight to the palace after The Rebound (so Azula, who no longer has a nation-state backing her, would have the means and funds to manipulate terrorist groups as well as house her kidnapped kids as part of a longer plot to make Zuko snap) and tell Zuko but there is no good-in universe answer that is inline with her previously established character.

For when did Mai suddenly care about her father to the point that she was willing to commit treason by supporting, or at least covering up, his seditious plot? 

For didn’t Mai, as part of betrayal at the Boiling Rock, essentially betray her father and the rest of her family in favor of Zuko?

Moreover, why would she prioritize her father and his potential political power considering what would happen if Ozai ever got back into power? For I know Avatar is a children’s franchise but I am pretty sure one of Ozai’s first acts once he got back on the throne after he had Zuko, Ursa, Iroh, Noren, and Kiyi killed, would be killing her and Ty Lee for their treason. 

Especially considering that if hadn’t turned when she did, half the Gaang would have died and Ozai would have very likely won the war. For without Aang learning lighting redirection, unless rock-kun (rock-kun is the younger cousin of Naruto’s swing-kun) intervenes much earlier, Aang dies to Ozai’s lighting spam and no one else on the remaining Team Avatar is a match for Comet!Ozai except in the very unlikely chance Katara manages to develop 24/7 blood-bending in the aftermath of her brother’s death.

But alas, Mai decides to act in an OOC manner and hides from Zuko the existence of The New Ozai Society/Safe Nation Society until her Zuko’s half-sister, along with her brother, have been kidnapped by The Fire Warriors after Zuko, Ursa, Noren, and Kiyi barely survived a New Ozai Society ambush.

And by barely, I mean if it wasn’t for the combination of Ukano’s monologue, Kei Lo’s last minute heel-face turn, and Zuko managing to bullshit the greatest non-Avatar fire redirection feat in the franchise, Zuko and his family would have been burned to death and/or brutally stabbed to death.

But even more galling, when confronted with her treason, Mai claims that Zuko out of all people should know how hard it is to betray your father as if there wasn’t a difference between betraying the all powerful ruler of your country who has a cult of personality, has burned you before, can quickly fire off lethal amounts of lighting on command, and has said before he wanted to kill you versus betraying your mentally and physically weak father who rejected being integrated into the new government and seeks to put someone back in power who would likely kill you for committing treason against him.

Especially that Zuko accepts her explanation and no one in-universe or the narrative never challenges Mai on why she committed treason again.

For I understand that Mai is a tertiary character, and thus can’t have the same narrative focus in regards to her redemption arc like Zuko. But if the narrative is going to treat Mai as a hundred percent redeemed good guy, she should be held to the same standards and be criticized when she acts in a villainous manner.

But yet again, the comics fail to challenge Zuko for almost restarting the Hundred Year War instead of calmly showing Aang and Kuei why he revoked his unconditional support for the Harmony Restoration Movement so why should we expect any “hero” to face any criticism?

Ukano

How come Ukano was willing to work with Azula to restore Ozai for the sake of his nation and family when not only is Fire Lord Zuko indebted to him for life due to Mai saving him at The Boiling Rock (not to mention Zuko offering him a job when his governorship disappeared after Bumi retook Omashu), but also when one of the first things Ozai would do after taking back power is killing Mai for her treason (imo, it is clear that after Zuko’s defection, the only punishment for treason was death, with no chance for life in prison like Iroh had)?

What is Ukano’s plan for dealing with a fully realized Avatar considering that Ozai with Sozin’s Comet got utterly stomped by Aang? I don’t think it is wise, or in line with someone leading a vast seditious conspiracy, to rely on Azula getting another cheap shot on Aang or The Fire Warriors able to get one over Aang using their smoke-bending.

Also, as a matter of storytelling, why should I root for his heel-face turn and acceptance of his prison sentence when one of the last things he does before being sent to prison is subtly imply that he was manipulated/coerced by Azula.

For in-universe, didn’t Ukano have several opportunities to tell Aang and Zuko about the kidnapped kids? And out of universe, even if Azula is extremely dangerous, it is kind of pathetic to hear a grown-ass man essentially be bullied by a bunch of mentally ill teenagers.

I mean how would you react if someone in a similar situation tried pulling Ukano’s excuse? 

Sympathy or mockery?

But in any case, how am I supposed to feel that even if Ukano has to go to jail, he at least did good by standing up to Azula and her followers if Ukano tries to deflect blame by blaming Azula?

I mean, would Zuko’s apology to The Gaang during The Western Air Temple felt as sincere if he blamed Azula’s manipulations and the promise of his father’s love for why he acted the way he did during The Crossroads of Destiny even if it were valid explanations for his behavior? 

Would the audience have so readily accepted Zuko into The Gaang if Zuko didn’t take sole responsibility for his actions?

Ozai & Ursa (The Letter)

Note: Ursa is a kidnapping victim who is highly implied to never had consensual sex with Ozai and thus her kids were highly likely to be conceived without her consent. The combined trauma combined with the fact that Ozai had all the power in the household in addition to his emotional and (heavily implied by artwork) physical abuse explains almost all of her bad parenting decisions and behavior towards Azula and Zuko…except for what I am going to describe below imo. So the point of this is just to make it clear that I don’t blame Ursa for what went wrong in Zuko’s or Azula’s life, for the responsibility solely lies on Azulon and Ozai’s shoulders, I am just criticizing one particular choice she made in-universe and the creators’ out of universe decision to make her act in that fashion.

Most people talk about the letter in relation to Zuko and how it affects him but I have a very hot take: the letter only really exists to allow Azula to be a credible antagonist during The Search considering her still mentally broken state and the fact that Zuko, Katara, and/or Aang where keeping eyes on her at all times. 

That and to also facilitate a means for Azula to get free of her restraints and eventually escape Zuko’s custody because without blackmailing Zuko, Azula would have never been free, unbound, and treated with dignity.

Also, the letter serves to unnecessarily woobify Zuko but that is not the focus of this post.

So with that in mind, let’s delve into what that letter implies Ursa’s and Ozai’s characters.

In regards to Ursa, I find it hard to believe that someone who basically begged for her son’s life and constantly shielded him to the best of her abilities would reckless endanger Zuko’s life by writing a letter that claimed Ikem, not Ozai, was Zuko’s father.

For Ursa, out of all people, should know that she, along with Zuko, only have value to the Royal Family if Zuko is Ozai’s kid. And that if Ozai was so inclined, he could have used the letter to kil Zuko and/or herself.

And even if it is a hundred percent Ozai’s fault that he used the letter as an excuse to essentially treat Zuko as a bastard (though personally I think Ozai just continued treated Zuko the way he previously did and just said that to further emotionally abuse Ursa), why would Ursa ever give Ozai the means to (further) torment her beloved son? Especially when she knows Ozai, and most likely Azulon considering how quick he was to order Zuko’s death to punish Ozai, has it out for Zuko?

In regards to Ozai, the letter, and what he did and didn’t do with it, makes him even more incomptenent than what previous canon suggested.

For even if he couldn’t have used the letter during Azulon’s reign to get rid of Zuko and/or Ursa (ex. Due to fear of retaliation from Azulon due to being a “cuck”), how come he didn’t use the letter to disinherit Zuko, instead of burning Zuko and having to cover it up?

Or, after Zuko went full traitor, how come Ozai didn’t use the letter to ensure that Zuko could never inherit the throne…at least through his claim as Ozai’s son (Iroh could have adopted Zuko and then abdicated in favor of Zuko)?

Iroh

I understand that Iroh is technically retired and doesn’t have to do anything. Moreover, I understand that the adults in child/teenage led action-adventure series can’t really be as proactive and/or responsible as IRL adults due to the constraints of the genre.

But Iroh is still involved in politics as seen by his willingness to serve as Zuko’s temporary Fire Lord when Zuko is gone. Moreover, Legacy of The Fire Nation does say that Iroh is still a White Lotus Grandmaster during the period the White Lotus becomes the Avatar world’s version of the UN Peacekeepers.

So with that in mind, we can criticize his lack of proactiveness in regards to Azula. For even taking away the assumption that Iroh offered the White Lotus’ help to find Azula after she ran into The Forgetful Forest, how come after Azula has been found to be masterminding the Kemurikage kidnappings, or after Azula revealed her plan to turn Zuko into a dictator, Iroh didn’t drop everything, call up the White Lotus, and lead a manhunt for The Fire Warriors?

For not only is Azula the biggest threat to world peace and balance in their world, she is the biggest threat to Zuko throne and safety. Especially after she has removed Iroh and Zuko’s one trump card over her (lighting redirection) and is arguably way stronger (at least as a combatant) than Ozai ever was.

For someone who lost his son and watched his beloved nephew be abused due to the effects of the Fire Nation’s imperialism and authoritarianism, why doesn’t Iroh make sure that the horrors of the past just stay in the past? Especially when he has the power, means, and connections this time around to make sure no one ever gets hurt again, not now and not in the future?

Ty Lee

In regards to The Search, Ty Lee was mistreated by Zuko when he first took Azula out without asking Mai or her about their feelings and then when he had the gall to lose her without granting her and Mai (and their families) 24/7 protection.

Though if Ty Lee is as much of a chi-blocking master as the narrative implies, when she warned Zuko that Azula’s chi-blocking was wearing off, she should have also warned him that there would be a period of time that Azula would be super flexible and have full control of her muscles and chi.

For even if Ty Lee had no idea that Azula had apparently learned instant lighting in the two years she had spent in the asylum, Azula is still capable of short bursts of fire that could have disoriented Zuko, leading to a similar outcome as to what actually happened in canon once Azula had the above period of time.

But moving on to something much more concrete, Ty Lee remembering the Fire Nation Palace’s secret tunnels and being able to pinpoint locate the one leading to Azula’s secret lair has some very negative implications about Ty Lee.

For even if she says it in a really roundabout way, The Sisters comics has Ty Lee say that she joined The Kyoshi Warriors at least in part to make up for the imperialism she helped perpetuate under Azula’s command.

Moreover, The Kyoshi Warriors agreed to be Zuko’s bodyguards in order to help protect the fragile peace that The Gaang helped establish at the end of the war. And in order to do so that means they have to be able to secure the Fire Nation Palace to the best of their abilities.

However, despite knowing about these secret tunnels, Ty Lee apparently never mentioned them in the year that the Kyoshi Warriors had been in The Fire Nation (The Promise takes place one year after Sozin’s Comet Part 4; The Kyoshi Warriors become Zuko’s bodyguards during The Promise; The Search takes place one year after The Search with the main plot of Smoke and Shadow taking place a couple of months after the climax of The Search).

And this lead to not only The Fire Warriors being able to walk into the palace and almost kidnap Kiyi unmolested (in fact, if it wasn’t for their smoke, The Fire Warriors would have kidnapped Kiyi without anyone being wiser), but for an entire conspiracy to operate right under their noses.

Not to mention what could have happened if The Fire Warriors where a little bit less mentally ill and used the fact that they had access to secret tunnels that no one knew about to do the obvious: carry out covert assassinations of all their enemies, which, depending on the time, could include important foreign figures like Aang, Katara, and Sokka.

Making things worse is that just like Mai really wasn’t challenged narratively or by anyone in-universe for her treason, Ty Lee is never challenged by the narrative or by her fellow warriors, Zuko, and/or Aang for knowing such a gaping security hole and not telling anyone earlier.

I mean the lack of knowledge of the secret tunnels could help, partially at least, explain why Zuko faced so many assination attempts, like Kori’s, that got frighteningly close to killing him. 

For instead of his original guard being disloyal and/or incomptenent, they could have had a lack of knowledge about the tunnels and thus didn’t know how to protectly seal them off and/or monitor them for threats.

Like I understand Azula being freed probably impacted her ability to think rationally (Ty Lee all but says she hasn’t had a peaceful night of sleep ever since Azula got out) but it doesn’t excuse the fact that she forgot to tell anyone about this security gap beforehand.

For doesn’t Ty Lee have a professional and moral duty to protect the Fire Nation palace and The Royal Family to the best of her abilities?

Kei Lo

I don’t hold him to the same standards as the heroes and outright adults in this analysis since  most of Rebound and Smoke and Shadow was about his heel-face turn and redemption arc.

But there is one thing that does bother me about post-redemption Kei Lo’s actions and this is when he attacked Azula in The Garden of Tranquil Souls without any apparent plan and got himself turned into a (brief) hostage.

For I understand that it was a moment to not only show how far Kei Lo had, but also to show Azula evilness by mocking Mai’s taste in men and implicitly threatening his life for daring to touch her/interrupt her “dialogue” bullying, assault, and psychological torture of with Mai.

But looking at Kei Lo’s actions from the bigger picture, they don’t really make sense and don’t paint a good picture of Kei Lo at all.

For Kei Lo had not only seen Mai defeat an entire NOS hideout with a toddler strapped to her back, Kei Lo was in fact the last person she fought before she left (spoiler alert: it was a total curb stomp battle).

Moreover, during the time that he had spent dating Mai and spent with Zuko and Aang, it is highly unlikely that the topic of Azula didn’t come up even if there was no comic panels showing us this (when you have limited space, you can’t waste panels on “superfluous” dialogue) and should have known that just like Mai was way out of league in terms of combat prowess, Azula is similarly beyond his abilities.

In addition, even if he didn’t believe what people mostly likely told him about Azula, he should have believed his own eyes as he wanted Azula basically toy with Mai despite Mai actually fighting with true lethal intent (I know some people might disagree with me but the art makes it clear that Mai was trying to kill Azula and not just pin her).

And finally, instead of rationally thinking and trying to get Zuko and/or Aang’s attention so someone way more equipped could help rescue Mai, he charges at Azula. But instead of using his knife or trying to get Azula into a chokehold, he just shoves her. 

Allowing Azula to not only shoot him with concussive lighting but then hold him at firepoint, forcing Mai, who had been able to stand up to Azula, albeit terribly I admit, to basically beg for Kei Lo’s life and leave herself vulnerable to Azula’s attacks as well.

For I know they are not analogous situations, but what Kei Lo did reminds me of dumbasses who try to intervene in active shooting situations, thinking they can be the hero, but end up making things worse due to being taken hostage, if they aren’t outright killed, making a peacefully resolution that much harder for the relevant authorities.

Likewise, Kei Lo, by getting himself taken hostage, could have, and should have as far as he knew, led to a nasty outcome. 

For as far as he knows, Azula is a sadistic, seditious, child-killing, child kidnapping, genocidal domestic terrorist who has no qualms about killing or cruelly treating “friends” or family. And so what is not to say that Azula wouldn’t have tortured him to get back at Mai and/or tortured Mai in front of him, forcing Mai to take her cruel punishment in order to prevent Azula from killing her boyfriend?

Kei Lo is very lucky that Zuko intervened when he did and is even more lucky that Azula was more interested in making her brother “strong” than really hurting anyone.

But instead of showing everyone berating him after the kids had been rescued, there was no narrative time spent at all. 

Which leads me to believe that that particular moment just happened, in part, just to showcase how vile Azula is despite in not being in line, imo, with the conscientious and aware person Kei Lo seemed to be growing into (as seen when he broke up with Mai since he realized despite being aloof for Smoke and Shadow that Mai could never get over Zuko).

Sokka & Katara

There isn’t much to say other than they were the only ones who interacted with post-canon Azula who treated her like the threat she.

That and it was obvious they were written out of Smoke and Shadow before Azula’s involvement with the kidnappings was revealed because if they were still in the Fire Nation when it happened, Azula and her girl gang would be back in jail instead of remaining menaces to society. 

Or at least at bare minimum they would have had to work much harder during the climax (ex. The Fire Warriors, including Azula, would have had to fight with lethal intent).

Toph

Other than the assumption that Toph helped Zuko search for Azula after the climax of The Search, all I have to say is that there is a good reason why Toph has not really shown up in any of the comics Azula has been. 

And that is because Toph would have never tolerated any of Azula’s bullshit or treated her with kid gloves instead of the genocidal war criminal who is still trying to negatively influence Fire Nation politics that she is as of current canon.

Other World Leaders

Note: Yes, there is no evidence that Azula was part of the war council meeting that ordered the attack on the Northern Water Tribe. But considering how comfortable Azula was in the “let’s burn down The Earth Kingdom” war council meeting plus the fact that Iroh thought it was appropriate for a 13 year old Zuko to partake in a war council meeting, I don’t think it is that much of a leap to assume that Azula was part of the war council meeting that ordered the Northern Water Tribe attack.

From Kuei’s perspective, Azula led a coup that ended with him in exile before suggesting and helping plan a genocide of his people. From Hakoda’s perspective, Azula almost killed both of his children several times. From Chief Arnook’s perspective, Azula was part of the war council that decided to not only invade his country, but to also kill the Moon Spirit and indirectly force his beloved daughter to sacrifice her life to restore said spirit.

So once Azula gets into Zuko’s custody, shouldn’t they have had established monitoring protocols to make sure that Zuko, who had less than six months ago willingly worked with her to conqueror Ba Sing Se and help Azula kill Aang, keeps one of the most dangerous war criminals in their world locked up while also establishing contingency plans to deal with scenarios in which Azula escapes?

Especially since Aang took mercy on her and didn’t remove her bending, meaning that Azula could grow stronger if she ever escapes (though I guess being in an asylum does allow for exponential growth anyway…) and eventually be able to get a cheap shot on Aang again before violently retaking the throne and restarting the 100 year war?

But instead of doing that, they naively trust that Zuko will keep Azula locked up without any check-ups (none of Zuko’s interactions with Kuei or Hadoka ever imply the topic of Azula’s status ever comes up). And while I understand the meta-reason for this (so it is more believable that Azula could remain an undetectable fugitive), it still has the potential to make them all look really, really bad.

For what happens, for example, The Fire Warriors create an international false flag terrorist attack that gets people from the other nations killed, in addition to Fire Nationals, that leads to a short skirmish that gets even more people killed before The Fire Warriors are found to be the true culprits and dealt with.

For even if they manage to capture The Fire Warriors, how are the world leaders going to explain to their subjects/citizens the lack of security measures they took in ensuring that Azula stayed in jailed or, if she ever escaped, the lack of plans to make sure she was apprehended as swiftly as possible?

Moreover, how are they going to explain the fact that they naively wholeheartedly trusted Zuko to make sure that Azula remained in prison or, if she escaped, that he would tell them and ask for their help if needed in apprehending her instead of trying to cover up the fact that it was his selfish desire to find mommy that gave the most dangerous person on the planet the means to escape? 

Especially after the Yu Dao fiasco showed that Zuko might not be the most trustworthy or reliable partner?

Do any of them take their responsibilities seriously!? No and that is why the Red Lotus had a point for why should a bunch of clowns be in charge of nation-states if they can’t even use state power to properly protect people.

Bending & Combat

One of the more endearing things about Avatar is the fact that its combat & magic system is based on IRL martial arts. And this is reflected in the fact that all of the named prodigies except for Katara & Sokka (who likely the greatest prodigies in the franchise in terms of speed of skill acquisition and mastery) have undergone years of rigorous training to be the master benders and fighters that they are shown to be in the show.

Moreover, the show explains that bending & fighting are not just martial arts, but are also a spiritual practice as well and that the more spiritually in tune you are the stronger your combat prowess will be. And that the less spiritual and/or the more out of balance you are, the weaker your combat prowess will be. 

For not only does your mental state affect things like your breathing or tactics, but also your willingness to incorporate other styles of bending/fighting into yours as well.

And the show makes it very clear that the strongest and best benders/fighters incorporate all the other styles of bending.

Finally, the show, whenever it introduced new bending/fighting techniques and/or power ups, made sure they didn’t contradict what was previously established (ex. Metal bending is possible only because most metal still has pieces of unrefined earth in them; chi-blocking is possible because everything has chi in it) or gave them logical weaknesses to make sure they weren’t completely game breaking (ex. Lighting redirection does negate lighting bending, but you need to be in the proper stance and make sure the lighting never touches your heart or else you will still die; chi-blocking only works if you can touch someone).

But the comics, in an effort to keep Azula a credible threat, seem to disregard all of the previously established rules and themes about bending and in doing so leaves the Avatar franchise in a worse off state.

For why was Azula, after two years in an asylum where it can be presumed she wasn’t able to train like she used to, didn’t have anywhere near the same resources, and went further into psychosis was able to retain her physicality and remain the hype-athletic fighter she was during the war?

Moreover, how did Azula get so strong and fast during her time in the asylum (and later in the wilderness and as a fugitive) to the point that she is arguably the best H2H fighter in Avatar?

For not only did Azula manage to hold off a serious and in armor post-canon Suki and Ty Lee despite wearing a billowing cape and a mask that blocked vision in her left eye, she also managed to consistently and causally dodge Mai’s knives despite the latter actually trying to kill her.

Not to mention how she managed to over-power Zuko, who was arguably the second best swords fighter in the franchise before having two years to add to his sword fighting prowess, in their short fire-sword fight in the tomb to the point that Zuko thought he could only prevent his death by convincing Azula that no one would ever accept her on the throne.

Zuko! You know the person who literally has to be knocked out and/or dying before giving up in a fight did not believe he could get out of Azula’s hold before she presumably stabbed him to death.

How come Azula’s fire managed to not only get stronger (ex. During the war, if she released her fire from her control it became orange, but after the asylum, it stays blue) but also why was Azula able to develop several new lighting techniques, several of which where completely unseen in the franchise, or hadn’t been seen for centuries as far as the reader was concerned (ex. Concussive lighting; instant lighting; quick charge lighting; lighting sphere; a bootleg chidori; instant area of effect lighting; lighting zaps; the ability to split and control her stream of lighting after she has fired it; lighting redirection).

And speaking of new lighting techniques, how did Azula manage to learn the lighting redirection technique on her own? For none of Iroh, Zuko, and Aang ever showed her the technique and Azula only saw the technique like four times (Iroh on the ship during The Avatar State; Zuko during Sozin’s Comet; Zuko twice during The Search). 

And as far as I remember, the TV show never implied or showed that Azula was a Goku-level prodigy in that she only had to look at technique only a handful of times to completely master it and/or develop a counter to it.

Not to mention the fact that Azula is still a hyper-nationalist who still has no respect for the other nations, let alone their bending arts.

Like have you seen all the times she calls Sokka and Katara snow peasants despite the two of them technically being her equal politically, Katara defeating Azula during Sozin’s Comet and almost defeating her during The Crossroads of Destiny? Does comics!Azula seem like the person to willingly incorporate waterbending principles into her bending, which is necessary to redirect lighting?

Also, what the hell is smoke-bending?! For I know in the Kyoshi novels, Kyoshi bends smoke as part of her first attempt at firebending and that Aang generated smoke during The Firebending Master (so smoke-bending is a subset of firebending as the seeming precursor to firebending itself).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqLW99cn1A8

But how did The Fire Warriors manage to learn how to psychically generate and manipulate smoke?

Moreover, how did The Fire Warriors manage to learn how to use smoke-bending while using their firebending at the same time? 

For as far as I know, other than Azula in the Smoke and Shadow Omnibus Cover, there is no other instance as far as I know of a non-Avatar bending an element and a sub-element at the same time. So how were they able to do so?

And how come Aang and Zuko (two master firebenders, one of which is also a master airbender) were not able to do anything about The Fire Warrior’s smoke? 

For shouldn’t they have been able to use their bending to clear to smoke instead of either choking on it (Aang) or allowing Azula to escape despite being a tomb with only one exit (Zuko)?

But I think the most frustrating thing is how strong the Fire Warriors are. For yes, I understand that the Gaang aren’t the only prodiges in the world and that for a children’s action-adventure series, it is hard to write conflicts if heroes face no physical challenges whatsoever.

But there is no justification both in-universe or out of it for why the Fire Warriors are so strong both in terms of bending but also in terms of athleticism as well. Especially considering the fact they were heavily implied to have been kept in the same conditions that Azula was (and thus shouldn’t have been able to train to an elite master level) and the fact that they too were wearing long billowing capes with their left eyes blocked by their wood masks.

In fact, this ties into my next point…

Fire Warriors & The Asylum System

How was Azula able to break out six girls from her old asylum without Zuko finding out? For even assuming that Azula killed everyone there, eventually someone had to have come and found out that at least six girls where missing? Especially when, assuming Zuko really did try to find Azula, one of the things he would have done is put a guard there since it was likely that Azula would try to return there.

But instead of getting an answer on how Azula was able to break them out without anyone finding out (other than the meta-textual answer of Azula needed a new girl gang and the only people who she could have plausibly convinced considering her living conditions of the past 2 years were her fellow asylum inmates), all we are left with is speculation, some of which implies some very nasty things about Zuko’s reign and The Fire Nation. 

Like the idea that the asylum system remained in control of Ozai loyalists and are currently weaponizing the inmates to create a shadow army to overthrow Zuko using the group of people Zuko and his regime would be least likely to suspect.

And speaking of speculation, what are The Fire Warriors’ motivations and/or goals in regards to joining Azula’s ongoing seditious domestic terrorism plot? For I understand that Azula needs new hench-women in order to carry out her plots since it would break the suspension of disbelief to have Azula carry them out by herself, but neither non-ableist explanation I could think of makes any sense.  

For either they are scared of her and/or being manipulated, but that doesn’t make sense since Azula no longer has any political power and thus they can ignore her once she breaks them out. Not to mention Azula doesn’t seem to have regained all of her mental faculties (ex. her Mochi rant during Smoke and Shadow and how her eyes bulge out like crazy!Azula in The Search at the end of the rant). 

Or because she became non-ironic friends with them, which doesn’t make sense since Azula during her time in the asylum was clearly not in the mental state to take care of herself, let alone make friends not relying on her status or fear-mongering. Especially when The Search has Azula blame “Ursa” for making Zuko, Mai, and Ty Lee stop fearing her, heavily implying Azula still thinks fear is a good way to maintain relationships.

Which leaves us with the ableist answer (sorry for the language, it is to get my point across): they are crazy bitches and crazy bitches don’t need any reason to do harm!

And do you know how harmful that is to IRL mentally ill people? For mentally ill people have had to fight really, really hard to fight the association that being mentally ill makes you evil or prone to evil. And it is only recently they have been able to fight back against such associations thanks in part due to positive representations in various artistic works.

So it makes me really disappointed that Avatar, a franchise that handles several difficult topics (ex. Child abuse, rescue parents, imperialism/colonialism, child soldiers, physical disabilities, war orphans, sexism/misogyny, hyper-nationalism, genocide, abusive sibling relationships, abusive friendships, etc.) with such grace that even children can clearly understand and learn from them, engaged in such harmful stereotyping. Especially when one of the most highly regarded arcs in LoK is Korra overcoming her PTSD from being poisoned with mercury over the course of several years and with the help of several people.

For at least Azula, with all the cries of ableism about her treatment in the comics and other post-canon works like Legacy of The Fire Nation, has reasons for being evil other than her mental illness. 

Like the fact that she was indoctrinated and groomed from birth to be an active member of the ruling family of an authoritarian, genocidal, imperialism empire.

But what are the Fire Warrior’s reasons for helping Azula outside of being mentally ill?

Themes (The Search)

To be quite honest, I really don’t think The Search has a theme since it mostly exists to answer the question of what happened to Ursa. So I don’t think there is much to analyze or criticize in terms of themes.

Themes (Smoke and Shadow)

However, Smoke and Shadow does have a central theme: fear, or more importantly, getting over the fear of: Ozai (for Ursa), Azula, and/or being a tyrant (in Zuko’s case).

And in regards to Ozai, I think Smoke and Shadow actually did a good job of showing Ursa getting over her fear of Ozai. In fact, I think their confrontation in Ozai’s jail cell, with Ozai being reduced to a mad dog after seeing he has no hold on Ursa anymore is one of the few good things that come out of the comics.

But in regards to the other two themes, which are heavily tied to each in my opinion, are butchered by the need to keep Azula a credible villain.

For I think fear does serve a valid purpose: to make sure we avoid situations and/or people that are likely to put ourselves or the people we love in danger. 

And boy do a lot of people have a lot to fear about post-Smoke and Shadow.

Mai and Ty Lee have every reason to continue to fear Azula after Azula basically humiliated them in combat and made it very clear that they are only still alive because Azula wants them to be. Not to mention in Mai’s case, Azula basically bullied Ukano into action, causing her father to eventually have to go to jail for a long time, and kidnapped her brother before put him in a holding cell for a good period of time.

Aang has ever reason to continue to fear Azula considering she has several lighting attacks that can bypass lighting redirection, the fact that Azula herself knows lighting redirection, the fact that Azula has smoke bending powers similar to The Fire Warriors that caused him to be knocked out cold, and that Azula has successful shown that she can cause Zuko to fall down the path of his ancestors, meaning that Azula could eventually succeed and indirectly wipe out everything Aang and his friends fought for during the war.

Zuko has ever reason to fear Azula considering: she basically broke into the palace and operated a conspiracy from right under his nose; she kidnapped a bunch of kids, including their half-sister, and he could do nothing until Ty Lee remembered the secret passageway; that she has taken away his trump card over her and has essentially become the strongest firebender in history; that he is only alive because Azula has plans for him; and that she is still loose and plotting the next step in her dastardly plot to remake Zuko in her image.

Moreover, Zuko has every reason to fear turning into a tyrant since he not only has failed to capture The Fire Warriors post-Smoke and Shadow, all that he has done to show that he won’t fall prey to the Fire Warriors manipulations and assaults once.

He doesn’t order a sweep of his government to make sure that there aren’t any more mavericks like Constable Sung in his ranks. 

He doesn’t try to craft policies to ensure the various Ozai loyalists groups can’t take advantage of alienated people like Kei Lo to fill their ranks with people willing to die since they have nothing in life. 

He doesn’t institute any safeguards or protocols to make sure that if he has to ever institute authoritarian measures ever again, he does so because it was the best and logical decision possible and not out of fear. 

He hasn’t undergone training (ex. Combine his firebending with his sword skills as is implied in the “Old Friends” artwork) to close the gap that has once again opened between him and Azula so that if he ever encounters Azula again, his life won’t be in her hands once more.

Hell! People like Iroh, Noren and Ursa have a lot to fear considering that Azula has easily breached the palace (and probably has other means of getting in undetected even if the tunnels are now known since she was responsible for evacuating Caldera City during the DoBS), one of the secure places in the world, and has demonstrated continued willingness to not only hurt Zuko but also now hurt Kiyi.

Moreover, assuming they ever find out where the other Fire Warriors came from, they will (and should considering their eras’ lack of knowledge on mental health) fear the inmates in the asylum system. 

For if six of them were willing to join Azula and were really strong benders who could even knock out a fully realized Aang, what will happen, hypothetically, when Azula builds herself an army out of the asylum inmates she and her warriors break out of the various asylums in the country?

So I guess what I am trying to say is that, by keeping Azula a villain, Smoke and Shadow undermined its own theme of “we have to learn to live with fear and never let it rule us.”

For only fools would not live in fear of Azula and The Fire Warriors until they are apprehended and I don’t think any of the characters mentioned in this section are big enough fools to underestimate what Azula and The Fire Warriors can do and what they are willing to do to achieve their goals.

Conclusion

Azula was one of the best villains in Western Animation and part of that is because the characters and the narrative treated her like the threat she was and that, even if her schemes did rely on good fortunes (ex. Sokka vouching for The Kyoshi Warriors before leaving with Aang to his father) they were created by various characters acting like they did normally and not in OOC fashion (ex. Kuei is an airheaded fool and so it is not out of character for Kuei to forget that he told Azula about the DoBS invasion plan and/or tell anyone associated with the plan that he spilled the beans before going on exile) just so Azula could win. 

Moreover, Azula doesn’t display new powers/abilities when the plot demands it just to remain a threat; all she does is exploit her previously established abilities and intelligence/cunning (ex. The Avatar is slowly floating up in the air in his Avatar State that is previously established to turn him into a berserking force of nature. Ok. I’ll just take advantage of the fact that he is exposed to shoot him dead with lighting before he can harm my allies, my friends, my brother, and/or I).

However, in the comics, Azula, despite remaining just as big as a threat, if not bigger, is not treated as such by either the narrative or the characters she interacts with. Moreover, Azula and her henchwomen frequently come up with new powers just so they remain a credible threat. And it not only ruins Azula as a villain, but also the characters that she has the misfortune of interacting with directly or indirectly.

For it really hurt to see a fully realized Aang essentially get knocked out by some faceless goons.

It really hurt to see Mai break up with Zuko because he visited Ozai without telling her and then hide from Zuko the existence of the New Ozai Society and the fact that her father was leading it. Not to mention, when confronted for treason, seeing her avoid owning her mistake before everyone unceremoniously dropped the subject.

It really hurt to see post-canon Suki and Ty Lee, two of the best H2H fighters who have learned each other’s techniques, essentially get fodderized by a half-blind Azula. Or to see Azula learn lighting redirection with no prior indication of how she managed to learn the technique. Or to see her invent concussive lighting because the comics want her to spam her iconic lighting at everyone like the villain she is but don’t want to deal with the consequences previously established in the TV show or in LoK.

It made me angry to see Zuko keep giving Azula second chance after second chance when Azula deserves no chances as long as she is on her current path. Especially when she keeps on hurting the people Zuko supposedly loves and the subjects he supposedly cares about.

Anyway, before my rant gets too long, the point is that not that Azula can’t remain a good villain. For even I, as someone who believes an Azula redemption would be compelling, believe there are ways to keep Azula a credible antagonist in line with what was shown in the TV show.

But if this is the way Azula is going to be continued to be written as a villain, as a living plot device, I don’t want her to remain a villain. 

Especially when the bad writing surrounding villain!Azula starts to ruin other character’s previously established characterization as well as previously established world building and lore.

–Submitted by justanotherthrowaway1950

[humanemotionssuck]

Hello 2021

January 2, 2021

I should’ve put these thoughts into words on the first day of the year but then again, I felt so lazy given this bed weather we are currently having. By far, I think I experienced the coldest temperature here in my hometown (21 degrees baby) and I’m sure not liking it as I prefer warm days.

I actually do not know how to start. I feel it’s necessary to check on how I am doing lately. Write the things I experienced last year and reflect on the lessons it taught me.

I could probably kick things off by remembering how 2020 started for me. I have a bad memory but I’ll try my best to recall them.

January

Broke up with J (yes this is probably one of the major and heartbreaking events happened to me). To sum it up, I realized that the relationship does not have growth anymore, and I am slowly drifting to follow my own path, which is to focus on the plans I want. I haven’t thought deeply the lessons I learned in my past relationship yet but one thing is for sure, I changed and I want to explore more of what I can do or what I’m missing out in life. Which brings me to attend seminars on how to work/study abroad. I attended a couple (e.g Fortrust Makati) and I also realized how costly it will be and I’m probably not yet ready esp. on the financial aspect.

February – March

Highlight on these months was I got back to dating apps again. I know it was a complete dick move. I haven’t moved on yet and here I am in the pool again. I met 2 guys from this app, Coffee Meets Bagel (which btw I uninstalled few months after). The first guy was the introvert but funny type and also VERY sexual. I got along with it, tried to do the deed but failed cause the guy hasn’t moved on from the ex yet. (Sucks right). And so I met this second guy and he is decent but we really had completely different personality. I believe this guy is also rich (he came from a Chinese family and I went to his house and saw the maid and his stuff). Can you also believe he already introduced me to his mom (no dad cause broken family), uncle and grandma. Pressured si ate gurl syempre cause it was really too early to do that step since we’re just dating but March was the most difficult month because…

START OF LOCKDOWN. PH was in state of panic after the government announced a nationwide lockdown due to increased COVID-19 transmission. I immediately went on a bus to the province fearing to get stuck in Manila.

April

Nah this was just a typical month. Summer vibes all over but since we cannot go to the beach we just setup an inflatable pool in the house to get soaked. I finally posted a pic wearing a swimsuit again. My stagnant IG feed came to life lmao

May

Oh boy. This month sucks so much. I got typhoid fever. Which I thought was COVID already cause my fever just won’t stop. My mom didn’t want me to get admitted in the hospital in the fear of being infected so I was hooked in the IV here in the house. I felt I was dying. I was in huge pain both physically and mentally. Which forced me to end any communication means with the second guy. He was not there when I was sick. I didn’t feel his concern even if we’re miles apart and I felt I was begging for his attention. It just won’t work. He blocked me in his socials (which is a first for me, usually I am the one who blocks lol) but given the current state I have now, I learned to accept it and chose to move forward.

June

Explored options on work/study program abroad. We got a new car (Xpander) which my father was able to purchase after borrowing money from us. That money could’ve been used for my Japan trip on December (plot twist it was cancelled due to fucking corona) but it’s okay I guess I’ll save another again.

I also got my student permit (yes I learned how to drive months after hehe)

July

THIS WAS MY BIGGEST DOWNFALL FOR THIS YEAR. There were some modifications in the quarantine and so my employer required and FORCED us to report on site in Makati despite of high number of positive cases. All I can say is SCREW THEM and I hope karma will do its thing on their business. The management.. the bosses.. they are all inconsiderate fucks for not allowing me to work at home instead. The situation forced me to resign but they chose to terminate me instead. The unemployment took its toll on my mental health, it caused me great depression and anxiety which forced me to look for distractions.. anything that will ease my mind.

Oh and btw, I bought my first laptop from hard earned money. Oh boy, it was satisfying to give myself the things my parents couldn’t afford that time I was still in school. It’s a gaming laptop and the one I’m using to type now. I absolutely love it and I used it to find online jobs later on..

I read Looking for Alaska by John Green again after watching the TV series on Hulu. Geez, this has to be my favorite book so far. The seeking of great perhaps.. which was very timely on my mood while having nothing else to do.

Lastly, TAYLOR SWIFT RELEASED A NEW ALBUM CALLED FOLKLORE. In the middle pandemic? Awesome right and this album kept me sane during this crazy and miserable month. Oh and on December, she released folklore’s sister album.. Evermore. Miss Swift saved me again with her music. This will definitely be one of the albums I will play when I’m old and gray knitting sweaters and wearing cardigan.

August

I started and finished my driving lesson in manual. JFC, I realized driving gives me a huge anxiety. One thing is for sure, I will prefer to drive automatic. Not driving that shit again.

I was still hooked with Looking for Alaska. Also purchased Subtle Art of not Giving a F*ck on the time I bought LFA.

On the other hand, I was also actively looking for new jobs this time.

September

ON SEPT. 30 I GOT HIRED! I was super happy to start on a new job. It gave me hope once again to continue on this journey called life. After almost 3 months, we are def back to business!

I also got the chance to get this Thyroid issue checked. Unfortunately, there was no major stuff going on with my thyroid. Basically, I’m perfectly healthy. What sucks is that the doctor invalidated my previous condition and said I only have ~anxiety which is the cause of my symptoms (excessive sweating and palpitations). I will seek professional help on this anxiety stuff anytime in the future.

Lastly, I played Grand Chase again and met someone in the game. Well technically we haven’t met yet but since then, I got used to talking with this guy and he is part of my daily routine now. I won’t spoil much details but as soon as this is all over, I can’t wait to meet this person :)

*cue Grand Chase soundtrack*

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoK0bAjsHoo

October

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MEEE! It was a typical birthday. I don’t have much realizations. If I had one, I need to think thoroughly again lol.

Busy with training on the new job and this has been the most challenging training I ever had since I started working.

NOVEMBER

WORK WORK WORK. Super stressed and my anxiety was on the roof. I thought of giving up already but then again it was too early to quit. I haven’t seen my full potential on this job yet and so I chose to keep on fighting.

I also finally got braces. Let’s get these smiles fixed.

December

WORK WORK WORK AGAIN. My work caused me a huge anxiety cause I was given high priority cases -.-But overall, I can say the holidays went great. I finally got to spend time with the family outside. Don’t worry cause we still practiced precautions and I guess it wouldn’t hurt to go out once in a while to have some fresh air. We went to the beach and pretty much that’s the highlight of this month.

Things are getting serious with this guy I’m talking about.. Seriously, he makes me happy every single day.

I also won in Christmas raffle. Oppo phone. (I have the odds in my favor when it comes to raffles lol)

Feels weird to celebrate this holiday too thinking a lot of hardships were experienced in the last few months of quarantine. I was thinking about all the lives lost by covid and hoping they are in the peaceful place now..

JANUARY (NOW)

After everything that happened, oddly the start of the year gives me a sense of hope. Sure I am still carrying the trauma 2020 gave me but I am slowly leaving all of them behind. I want a fresh start and I want to let go of the things that gave me pain. I don’t have solid resolutions just like in my teenage years. Guess I’m too old for that. Not saying it’s okay to not have plans for the future and just go with the flow but I promise to not be too hard on myself and to not pressure myself on the goals I haven’t achieved yet. It’s really a struggle to plan things ahead given the situation but as always, I will do my best. I will stop comparing my progress to somebody else’s cause everyone has their own timeline.

I will listen to my heart and my mind to determine the things I really want. I promise to reevaluate the decisions I am making each day. I will not be afraid of making mistakes because that’s how I learn.

I am embracing my anxiety of uncertainty. It’s okay to feel afraid because I am always trying on how to overcome my fear. I strive each day because I am more than just a ball of anxiety. The palpitations.. the sweating.. they don’t define me. I have the power to control them and they won’t stop me from being the better version of myself.

[wikipediaredoengl199fa20]

Kyleigh Burns

Prof. Audrey Golden

ENGL 199

8 December 2020

Wikipedia REDO! Diana, Princess of Wales

Their engagement became official on 24 February 1981.[19] Diana was able to select her own engagement ring.[19] Following the engagement, Diana left her occupation as a nursery teacher's assistant and lived for a short period at Clarence House, which was the home of the Queen Mother.[37] She then lived at Buckingham Palace until the wedding.[37] Ingrid Seward, who wrote a biography on Diana, described the time before the wedding as “lonely” for the princess.[38] Diana was the first Englishwoman to marry the first in line to the throne since Anne Hyde married the future James II over 300 years earlier, and she was also the first royal bride to have a paying job before her engagement.[22][19] She made her first public appearance with Prince Charles in a charity ball in March 1981 at Goldsmiths' Hall, where she met Grace, Princess of Monaco.[37]

Twenty-year-old Diana became Princess of Wales when she married Charles on 29 July 1981. The wedding was held at St Paul's Cathedral, which offered more seating than Westminster Abbey, a church that was generally used for royal nuptials.[22][19] The service was widely described as a "fairytale wedding" and was watched by a global television audience of 750 million people while 600,000 spectators lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the couple en route to the ceremony.[19][39] They had notable vows, as Diana swapped Charles’ middle names and they has requested that they would not say they would obey each other.[39] .[40] Diana wore a dress valued at £9,000 (equivalent to £34,750 in 2019) with a 25-foot (7.62-metre) train.[41]

The couple had residences at Kensington Palace and Highgrove House, near Tetbury. On 5 November 1981, Diana's pregnancy was announced.[45] In January 1982 — 12 weeks into the pregnancy — Diana fell down a staircase at Sandringham, and the royal gynaecologistSir George Pinker was summoned from London. He found that although she had suffered severe bruising, the foetus was uninjured.[46]Diana later confessed that she had intentionally thrown herself down the stairs because she was feeling "so inadequate".[47] In February 1982, pictures of a pregnant Diana in bikini while holidaying was published in the media. The Queen subsequently released a statement and called it "the blackest day in the history of British journalism."[48] On 21 June 1982, Diana gave birth to the couple's first son, Prince William.[49] She subsequently suffered from postpartum depression after her first pregnancy and[50]  decided to take William on her first major tours of Australia and New Zealand. By her own admission, Diana had not initially intended to take William until Malcolm Fraser, the Australian prime minister, made the suggestion.[51]

A second son, Prince Harry, was born on 15 September 1984.[52] The Princess said she and Charles were closest during her pregnancy with Harry. She was aware their second child was a boy, but did not share the knowledge with anyone else, including Charles.[53]

Diana was an involved mother and gave her children a variety of different experiences while they were growing up. She was firm in her beliefs around parenting and was strong in her role as a mother to William and Harry. Her and Charles worked together to raise them, along with nannies their family hired. Like most parents, she was very interested in their schooling and social lives. She would dress and drive them to school and often scheduled her work in order to spend the most time with them. 

//

Public Image

Diana remains one of the most popular members of the royal family throughout history, and she continues to influence the principles of the royal family and its younger generations.[301][302] She was a major presence on the world stage from her engagement to Prince Charles in 1981 until her death in 1997, and was often described as the "world's most photographed woman".[19][303] She was noted for her compassion,[304] style, charisma, and high-profile charity work, as well as her ill-fated marriage.[157][305] Diana's former private secretary, Patrick Jephson described her as an organised and hardworking person, and pointed out Charles was not able to "reconcile with his wife's extraordinary popularity",[306] a viewpoint supported by biographer Tina Brown.[307] He also said she was a tough boss who was "equally quick to appreciate hard work", but could also be defiant "if she felt she had been the victim of injustice".[306] Diana's mother also defined her as a "loving" figure who could occasionally be "tempestuous".[240] Paul Burrell, who worked as a butler for Diana, remembered her as a "deep thinker" capable of "introspective analysis".[308] She was often described as a devoted mother to her children,[19][309] who are believed to be influenced by her personality and way of life.[310] In the early years, Diana was often noted for her shy nature.[301][311] Journalist Michael Whiteperceived her as being "smart", "shrewd and funny".[302] Those who communicated with her closely describe her as a person who was led by "her heart".[19] In an article for The Guardian, Monica Ali described Diana as a woman with a strong character, who entered the royal family as an inexperienced girl with little education, but could handle their expectations, and overcome the difficulties and sufferings of her marital life. Ali also believed that she "had a lasting influence on the public discourse, particularly in matters of mental health" by discussing her eating disorder publicly.[157] According to Tina Brown, in her early years Diana possessed a "passive power", a quality that in her opinion she shared with the Queen Mother and a trait that would enable her to instinctively use her appeal to achieve her goals.[312] Brown also believed that Diana was capable of charming people with a single glance.[307]

Diana was known for visiting sick and dying patients, and people poor and unwanted who were often seen as outcasts of society. The attention she gave these people increased her popularity with the people, as she was see as being kind and empathetic. [313] She was often thought of as mindful of other people's thoughts and feelings, and later revealed her wish to become a beloved figure among the people, saying in her 1995 interview, that "[She would] like to be a queen of people's hearts, in people's hearts."[311] Known for her easygoing attitude, she reportedly hated formality in her inner circle, asking "people not to jump up every time she enters the room".[314] Diana is often credited with widening the range of charity works carried out by the royal family in a more modern style.[157]Eugene Robinson of The Washington Post wrote in an article that "Diana imbued her role as royal princess with vitality, activism and, above all, glamour."[19] Alicia Carroll of The New York Times described Diana as "a breath of fresh air" who was the main reason the royal family was known in the United States.[315] Anthony Holden, a journalist and fan of  Diana, wrote about the ways he thought the period after her divorce was one of  relief and growth in a new, more independent life .[147] Despite all the marital issues and scandals, Diana continued to enjoy a high level of popularity in the polls while her husband was suffering from low levels of public approval.[19] Her peak popularity rate in the United Kingdom between 1981 and 2012 was 47%.[316] In Theodore Dalrymple's opinion, her popularity stemmed from "both her extreme difference from common people and her similarity to them". He believed that by going public about her marital issues and bulimia she won the admiration of "of all those who have been unhappy in their marriages" as well as people who suffered from psychological problems.[317]

Diana had become what Prime Minister Tony Blair called the "People's Princess", an iconic national figure. He had reportedly said that she had shown the nation "a new way to be British".[308] Her sudden death brought an unprecedented spasm of grief and mourning,[318] and subsequently a crisis arose in the Royal Household.[319][320][321] Andrew Marr said that by her death she "revived the culture of public sentiment",[157] while The Guardian's Matthew d'Ancona dubbed Diana "the queen of the realm of feeling" and said that "the impassioned aftermath of her death was a bold punctuation mark in a new national narrative that favoured disinhibition, empathy and personal candour."[322] Her brother, the Earl Spencer, captured her role:

Diana was the very essence of compassion, of duty, of style, of beauty. All over the world she was a symbol of selfless humanity. All over the world, a standard bearer for the rights of the truly downtrodden, a very British girl who transcended nationality. Someone with a natural nobility who was classless and who proved in the last year that she needed no royal title to continue to generate her particular brand of magic.[323]

In 1997, Diana was one of the runners-up for Time magazine's person of the Year.[324] In 1999, Time magazine named Diana one of the 100 Most Important People of the 20th Century.[325] In 2002, Diana ranked third on the BBC's poll of the 100 Greatest Britons, above the Queen and other British monarchs.[326] In 2003, VH1 ranked her at number nine on its 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons list, which recognises "the folks that have significantly inspired and impacted American society".[327] In 2006, the Japanese public ranked Diana twelfth in The Top 100 Historical Persons in Japan.[328] In 2018, Diana ranked fifteenth on the BBC History's poll of 100 Women Who Changed the World.[329][330]In 2020, Time magazine included Diana's name on its list of 100 Women of the Year. She was chosen as the Woman of the Year 1987 for her efforts in de-stigmatising the conditions surrounding HIV/AIDS patients.[331]

Despite being regarded as an iconic figure and a popular member of the royal family, Diana was subject to criticism during her life. Patrick Jephson, her private secretary of eight years, wrote in an article in The Daily Telegraph that "[Diana] had an extra quality that frustrated her critics during her lifetime and has done little to soften their disdain since her death".[301] Diana was criticised by philosophy professor Anthony O'Hear who in his notes argued that she was unable to fulfill her duties, her reckless behaviour was damaging the monarchy, and she was "self-indulgent" in her philanthropic efforts.[224] Due to these remarks, the charity organisations that Diana had worked with countered O’Hear’s narrative about her charity work. [224] Further criticism surfaced as she was accused of using her public profile to benefit herself,[107] which in return "demeaned her royal office".[301] Diana's unique type of charity work, which sometimes included physical contact with people affected by serious diseases occasionally had a negative reaction in the media.[301]

Diana's relationship with the press and the paparazzi has been described as "ambivalent". On different occasions she would complain about the way she was being treated by the media, mentioning that their connstant presence in her proximity had made life impossible for her, whereas at other times she would seek their attention and hand information to reporters herself.[332][333] Writing for The Guardian, Journalists like Peter Conrad and Christopher Hitchens analyzed the situation and surmised that Diana was cognizant of the influence the press had on her public standing. She therefore involved herself in public activities, perhaps to her own detriment, and often used them to show her philanthropic work.  

//

Essay

The culture and lore around Princess Diana has been ever evolving despite her death over twenty years ago. Although she remains a steadfast, beloved figure in Western celebrity culture, the narratives and bias surrounding her have shifted her memory farther and farther away from the woman herself. This is understandable and in some ways how the human brain responds to loss - by filling in memories or ideas of who the person might be instead of who they were. Lauded as the “queen of people’s hearts”, she became idolized to the extreme in death by the press, who were once her biggest critics. Thought of as endlessly kind, beautiful, and just an ordinary girl who fell victim to the malicious royal family, much of the dialogue around Diana reflects her idolization and serves to inform it even further. This  rhetoric can become harmful because it conflates the idea of a person with who they actually are, which creates false images and unattainable standards.

Throughout her wikipedia entry, the author(s) bias towards Diana as a selfless saint is seen in both explicit and implicit ways. Selective wording and the inclusion of quotes by many different supporters which describe Diana in loving ways, the author paints the same portrait of Diana painted by pop culture. An example of this would be in the section on Diana’s Public Image, when the Wikipedia article quotes Peter Conrad, who wrote an article on Diana for the Guardian, as saying that she “overburdened herself” with the press. The connotations of “overburdened” imply that she didn’t realize what she was doing, and once she did she was unable to escape. The inclusion of this quote paints Diana as unwitting and innocent to the power of the press, even when she was an accomplished public figure who understood how to manipulate the press.

In order to try and reconcile with the bias shown in Princess Diana’s wikipedia article, I rewrote portions of the text to include less biased language and present a clearer image of the person, not the persona. I used more neutral language which carried less implication and connotation in order to paint a more balanced picture of who Diana really was. Through careful diction and paraphrasing instead of direct quotes, I was able to include the same information but presented in a way which allows the reader to draw their own conclusions about the subject. For example, in the passages discussing the way she chose to parent William and Harry, I tried to make the language less aggressive. To think of and speak about Diana in a way that only describes her as a victim or as someone who could do no wrong is not only inaccurate but implies that who she actually was was not enough. The bias’ weaved in throughout the wikipedia article reflects the cultural thought surrounding female celebrities and specifically Diana - although the author(s) are providing an accurate portrayal of her life, they’re approaching the article with pre-formed conclusions in their mind. These conclusions present in the form of bias and influence the reader to think about the subject in a certain tone or light. By approaching this piece with the knowledge that it contained bias language, I was able to identify and correct it in the selected passages.

Bibliography

The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica. “Diana, Princess of Wales.” Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 August 2020, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Diana-princess-of-Wales. Accessed 8 December 2020.

Harris, Daniel. “The Kitschification of Princess Diana.” Salmagundi, no. 118/119, 1998, pp.

279–291. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/40549319. Accessed 9 Dec. 2020.

Hobbes, Micheal and Marshall, Sarah. “Princess Diana Part 2: The Wedding”, You’re Wrong About, 5 October 2020, https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Ty4blFiX86hMybf1QSkd9?si=vPAtvf1VSAqizSeVh0frLQ.

Mantel, Hilary. “The Princess Myth: Hilary Mantel on Diana.” The Guardian, 26 August 2017,

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2017/aug/26/the-princess-myth-hilary-mantel-on-diana

. Accessed 8 December 2020.

Saukko, Paula. “Rereading Media and Eating Disorders: Karen Carpenter, Princess Diana, and the Healthy Female Self.” Critical Studies in Media Communication, vol. 23, no. 2, 2006, pp. 152-169. Simmons Library, https://eds-b-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.simmons.edu/eds/detail/detail?vid=0&sid=dde5e9f9-537c-4c92-b738-fa172ed177d8%40pdc-v-sessmgr04&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWRzLWxpdmUmc2NvcGU9c2l0ZQ%3d%3d#db=ufh&AN=21783111&anchor=AN0021783111-8.

[natsubeatsrock]

Should our heroes win?

For many of you, that's probably the wrong way to put it. We like to think that our heroes are who they are because they're able to swoop in and save the day. The idea that they couldn't come to the rescue of people means that, at best, they weren't fit for the situation or, at worst, they're a terrible hero. This should be asking if our heroes should lose, right? 

While I believe there's a place for that to be asked, this is an important question to ask if winning is as important to what makes a hero as we think it to be. Winning is great and important, but it's not always all it's cracked up to be.

After all, I am a Fairy Tail fan. I find a lot of the wins that are won to feel a bit forced. I don't know that Natsu beating Zancrow, for example, was a good win to have. When it comes to Natsu dealing with other magic, I'm not as accepting in dealing with it. I'm personally thinking through how to deal with that in the rewrite. But, I don't know if Natsu winning the way he does is as good as it seems.

Speaking of which, Gildarts gave Natsu advice that helps with this discussion. Recognizing weakness is a step to becoming a better person. The funny thing about this is that, despite my misgivings of the way the Grand Magic Games arc was handled, this was one of the better things about how the events on Tenrou Island and the fallout behind it. Everyone in the guild has a place they can grow right before the arc starts. (Note: there was an arc before it in the anime.) The arc even starts with the main team looking for quick ways to get stronger after Natsu almost loses a fight to Max.

One of my favorite rap lines goes "tell me how you plan on gettin' swole if you don't ever get sore". The idea is that, if you want to get good, you're not going to do it by steamrolling all of your opponents. Most people getting into something are likely to be terrible at it to start and only get better gradually.

This is why we get our training arcs. Our heroes learn to hone their skills to become the best possible versions of themselves and achieve their goals and help their friends. It's not a coincidence that a lot of training arcs happen either before big battles or after serious losses. That's when characters have to grow into a better version of themselves if they want to be able to accomplish their goals.

How long training should last is an interesting point of contention and there's no uniform way to deal with it. A show like Dragon Ball or My Hero Academia will spend episodes showing the main character working out a new technique. Sports shows will usually spend a bit longer on training. 

Some shows skip the training altogether. The characters will start their training and the story skips to them being stronger. The most famous case of this is Naruto. The main character goes away for two and a half years to train. The next part of the series begins when he comes back. If you're an anime fan, you recognize the split as Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden. (I read Naruto to completion.)

Though, the award for the most inventive circumvention for training goes to Hiro Mashima in Rave Master. The story revolves around the main character's search for the five Rave stones. While he starts the series with the first one, the first stone he searches for grants him all the knowledge he needs for his quest intuitively. It also improves his combat knowledge and skills, especially when combined with the next stone he finds. (This isn't as bad as I'm describing it.)

There is an alternative to losing. You can have a character win, but at a cost. Either they have to sacrifice something or someone to win, or they win but can't live the same way they used to. However it happens, the win only sort of feels like a win.

My Hero Academia is one of the better examples of this. While Midoriya winds most of his fights, many of the early fights come with physical harm to his body. It's one thing if you fight someone and get a cool scar out of it. It's different when the results of your fights lead to a necessary shift in your methods you want to continue working with two arms. Not only do you get the aspects of a win and loss, but you can also have either a constant reminder of what happened or a marker for their growth.

At the same time, there's nothing wrong with the idea of a hero winning. It's not wrong that a hero as seen as someone who can beat the villains. We need some real heroes in fiction and real life. We need more people who can fight villains and win.

What I'd say is that some people should look past that facade. Of course, I say facade because a hero isn't only an unstoppable force. All heroes have to work hard to get to a point of near invincibility, even as some work harder than others. We should recognize the hard work that comes into a win, both before and during the win. A hero may be defined by their wins, but their wins ought to be defined by their work.

Though, every now and then, it's worth questioning if it really is worth it for a hero to win. What does a character gain from winning a specific fight? Does it make sense for our hero to accomplish his goal?

For better or worse, most of our media come from the perspective that to some degree good people achieving good things. They ultimately try to do something this good or can become good. You'll rarely get a series where we're supposed to root against the main character's expressed goal. Chances are they'd likely change before they actually get the chance to do what they want or realize what they're doing is wrong.

Of course, not every series is Death Note. Despite the arguments of the "Kira was right" side of the fandom (they exist and I've met one in real life), Light is not a hero or a good person. We're not supposed to look to him for good moral actions and the story makes that abundantly clear. Even as one can question if killing "only bad people" is really a bad thing, much of what Light does besides that makes him out to be borderline psychopathic. It shouldn't come as such a shock that the series doesn't allow him to ultimately succeed.

In my mind, what a win looks like depends on who the character is and what the story is about. Winning doesn't look the same for every character or for every series. In essence, even as heroes are defined by their wins, the win is also defined by the hero.

I've already talked about this, but Aang not killing Ozai is an interesting example. I remember watching Sozin's Comet as it originally aired (12 years from next week, yikes) yelling at the screen for Aang to get over himself and kill the Fire Lord. It seemed like the obvious play. The only way it made sense to defeat the Fire Lord was to kill him. However, the way he comes up with (as much of a narrative mess as it may be) allows him to continue to stay true to himself as the Last Airbender. It's one of many times that writers have proven to know their characters better than I do. (Go figure.)

To be continued...

[mrevaunit42]

My turn! Who's your favorite of the BNHA crew?

haha hi! sorry it took so long. It has been busy for me. Due to spoilers you can find my answer below! 

I absolutely love BNHA. It is so rare to have an action anime have so much thought and depth and story while being so well written yet simple. No convoluted plots! well yet

and 99 percent of the characters are so great and have such intense depth (except a certain grape but we don’t talk about him. I think they toned him down he would’ve been more bearable) 

Honestly it is pretty hard for me to pick a single character given how rounded the cast is. From Iida and his straight shooter rules follower who literally gets consumed by vengeance, the last thing you’d ever expect from his character archetype, to Uraraka who goes from a simple but rather noble goal (I mean who doesn’t want to take care of their parents when they get older? Like can you imagine how useful her power would be in construction?) to I want to be a hero. I want to be a real hero and I’ll hide my feelings for my best friend until w achieve our goal.

Even the most jerk butt character Bakugo has some interesting growth in subtle ways. Like before he gets to U.A he was basically the best in the class in terms of power and skill  and he was popular despite being than a less than good person to when he finally gets to hero school and not only finds peers that rival him nearly equally, that no one gives a crap about his quirk which in turn forces him to actually grow and actually stop being an asshat. Also like how they address his mental state and the lack of care that came from his rescue. It’s rare for mental problems to be addressed in this genre of anime and manga. 

But my favorite character is the symbol of peace Deku because he has such depth most people don’t realize and he is such a subversion of the cliche battle anime troupes and how he is the driving force of the entire series much like All Might. 

It’s amazing how engaged we are with Deku’s character and growth given we know how this story ends. I mean Deku himself tells us that one day he will become the greatest hero ever. It’s not even subtle. It is spoken in the first episode. 

One of the favorite aspects of I love of Deku is how he’s not a traditional protagonist. Like when you stop and think about it, he is no Naruto or Goku. He doesn’t have some insane power source due to his heritage or because he had an all powerful being sealed inside him. He’s just a regular teenage boy but not just that, he’s a freaking genius. It’s really easy to overlook this given the fantastical setting that my hero takes place in but Deku is brilliant in terms of observation. He routinely studies quirks and not only how they work but their usefulness and weaknesses. He meets stain and within maybe 30 seconds at most, deduces what his quirk does and starts going through the possibilities of how the quirk works. He offers Uraraka a plan to beat Bakugo which I totally believe would’ve won her the match (though her tactic was brilliant too and really showcased her own power and thought process.)  He was able to utilize everyone’s power to help Bakugo and ultimately help turn the tide for the All Might vs One for All battle. He figures out how to properly use one for all while training with Gran Torino and gets the hang of it well enough to help take down the Stain the hero killer who murders pro heroes. Boy’s smart and it’s only because quirks exist does he not get to show it off. 

The next thing I like about him is his personality and how varied it is yet still makes sense. He is a nice, kind, polite teen who is a total fanboy and makes no apologizes for it. I mean he’s been bullied his whole life but it doesn’t make him bitter, it makes him study quirks in hopes that he could learn from them. He still holds on to the dream of being a hero despite how crazy it sounds. He’s kinda clueless sometimes and you can tell he’s not used to being the center of attention, probably due to his years of being ignored. But in battle, there’s such a shift in character. He becomes vicious and brutal. Angry and furious. He’ll destroy you and everything you stand for and he doesn’t care if he’s destroying himself in the process. If he’s going down, he’s taking you with him. And he refuses to yield. He refuses to give up and let you win. And this is clearly stemming from him looking up to Bakugo. To him Bakugo has always won. He’s always been the better, stronger, unbeatable symbol of victory and Deku has unknowingly emulated him. It’s nice contrast and helps show how different situations bring different aspects of characters in story. A lot of people tend to forget that people have various ways to cope in different situations and sometimes you have a sweet nice boy who will brutally destroy you if you’re committing evil. 

The last thing that I’ll talk about because this is getting long and I didn’t mean to go into a whole analysis haha is how much Deku’s belief in being a hero drives everyone else. Like I love the Deku villain aus so much but the only thing most of those get wrong is that they have him team up with Shigaraki. People don’t seem to realize that Deku’s growth as a hero directly parallels Shigaraki’s growth as the villain. Deku’s path to being greatest hero is leading him to the final battle that Shigaraki’s goal to being the ultimate villain. If you watch the arcs carefully, as Deku cements himself more and more into being a hero, Shigaraki is forming into a villain. He used to use video game terms and took as a joke. His first attack is him using a bunch of low class thugs as a distraction but then he grows. He directly confronts Deku, he loses all for one whom he considered to be the only family in his life. The next arc deals with a serious threat in the form of Overdrive who is a villain of a caliber we’ve not seen yet but Shigaraki really grows from Overdrive’s actions and takes advantage of the situation. For the villain au, Deku really shouldn’t be teamed up with Shigaraki because taking Deku away and not replacing him with someone who can fill his shoes destroys everyone and I am not kidding. Deku’s real gift is to save people who in turn save other people. If Deku never had one for all, All Might might’ve died in Shigaraki’s initial attack because it was only because Deku distracted Shigaraki for a second did the heroes get the drop on everyone. And that’s a maybe situation but let’s take a not maybe situation. If Deku didn’t convince Todoroki to use his full power during the sports festival, he would never have gone to his father’s hero agency which means he wouldn’t have been in the city and he wouldn’t have helped save Iida and even if he had showed up, he probably would’ve died too because it took both powers to help fend off Stain with Deku. Iida would’ve died in the back of an alley with Native which in turn means Stain would’ve been still out there murdering heroes. True Spitter and Dabi wouldn’t have joined Shigaraki but one ripple effect at a time. So keeping the dominoes going, Muscular would’ve killed Kota and still been out there, Tokoyami would’ve been kidnapped along with Bakugo. The raid would’ve failed horribly because it took Todoroki, Iida, Momo, Kirashima and Deku to save Bakugo which allowed All Might actually fight full force against all for one and most likely All Might probably would’ve died because All Might wins using a trick he learned from Deku. Even All For One says outloud that someone’s been influencing him because All Might isn’t one to use tricks. Deku is the driving force of the next generation of heroes and that’s why in the future he is the symbol of peace. I love my hero academia because it feels like the aftermath of another anime kinda like Naruto and Boruto (And I would pay to see a prequel series. I still need to read illegals). 

Annnnd that’s it because I can talk forever and a half because there’s so much depth in this show.

haha long story short, favorite character is Deku. 

[ipurpleyou1993]

My thoughts on:

Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung

Starring: Cha Eun Woo/Shin Se Kyung/Lee Ji Hoon/ Park Ki Woong

- Stand up for what you believe in. I think this is very important. People usually take advantage of those who are weak. So make your stand - especially if your boundaries and rights are being poked.

- Sometimes, being different is okay. Averting the community's standards is okay too. Why be like everybody else when you can be yourself?

We do not have to compromise our identity to match other people's standards. ✅😊💯

- Let us be each other’s support system. Let us value encouragement over discouragement. If someone wants to sing/dance/act/write, let them. Let them find what they are passionate about and support them.

Encouragement and kindness are free.

- Equality has come a long way. 👍🏻

The series is set during the Joseon Era where the status of women depended on who they marry. They are practically born to serve men during this time. So, I’ve come to appreciate the liberties we have now more than ever.

- Do your part. Do not be afraid when you are just doing what you are supposed to do.

- Adapt to the changing times. Change is the only thing that is constant. Let's all move forward with lessons from the past. 💜

- Wouldn't it be nice... if the world was Cadbury? Char! Hahahaha! Wouldn't it be nice if someone makes the decision to let go of everything just to be with you? #SanaAll

It may sound cliché but it's really romantic - how two persons can come together to achieve everything together. Wouldn't this really be nice? 😊❤️🥰

- Safe to say, no matter what era we are currently in, women make the world a better place. HAHAHAHA!

The Gist:

The series depicts the story of two young individuals who, despite being in different social classes, fell in love against all odds.

Shin Se Kyung plays the role of Goo Hae Ryung. She is a quirky young lady from a noble family who enjoys reading a lot. In saying so, she works as a book-reader to noble ladies in her neighborhood to earn money. Although, due to her book preferences, she always ends up not getting paid.

During this time, women tend to enjoy books about cringy love stories - most of which are written by “Maehwa”. Hae Ryung, on the other hand, prefers western literature which usually end depressingly. Hence, the no-payment scenario.

Little did everyone know, Maehwa is the pen name of Prince Dowon Yi Rim (played by Cha Eun Woo). He is the King’s son who lives at Nokseodang - the most secluded area in the palace - where he stays with a eunuch named Sam Bo and 2 young court ladies.

Naturally, as a kid who never left the palace, he is very innocent, naive and gentle. He found writing as a means to pass time inside the palace. Thus, the inspiration for the novels he usually writes are the secret love affairs of eunuchs and court ladies.

Digging deeper into the conflicts inside the palace, the king and his right-hand man decided to request the hiring of female historians. They meant to spy on the queen dowager who seems to be plotting against them behind their backs by doing so.

This move took a turn when the crown prince - Yi Jun - approved the plea on the condition that the female historians should take the civil service examination for government employees and that their involvement should not be limited to the queen dowager but to ALL members of the royal family.

A lot of controversy rose as females were not allowed to hold any position in the government during this time.

Hae Ryung and Yi Rim's story start to blossom here - when Goo Hae Ryung decides to ditch her arranged wedding to take the civil service examination to work inside the palace as a female historian.

They are set to an adventure of finding out their real identities and the people behind their past experiences.

The rest is for you to find out. So, watch this. It will be worth your time. 👍🏻💕

What I liked about the series:

- I love how unconventional the theme of this series is. Well, it's a gender bender type of story. The aggressiveness of the female lead and the innocence and naivety of the male lead is fun and fresh. ❤️💕😍 It makes the story more interesting since it's different from the traditional sageuk we are previously acquainted to. 👍🏻😊❤️

- I was thrilled when I found out that Cha Eun Woo was casted here as the male lead. I grew fond of him when I watched My ID is Gangnam Beauty. He's such an eyecandy! 😍😍😍

Of course, in relation to his outstanding visuals, we get to see a glimpse of his beautiful physique *wink wink*

On a serious note, what I liked about him in this series is that he has a very demure personality. Rarely do we get to see men in sagueks who are effeminate - mainly because historical dramas are very patriarchal in nature (IMO, ✌🏻).

I also liked how his character really transformed from this very innocent prince to a very mature potential king. The character growth was well-displayed so it was very satisfying to watch. ❤️😊😍

His acting is one to praise as well. I could say that he has improved a lot in the duration of the series. You might find this hard to believe in the beginning. But wait til you see him in the last few episodes. You'll get to appreciate his improvement more. 😊👍🏻💯

Aaaaand, may I just say, the term "Face Genius" really works for the man. Well, who wouldn't love this BB's face? TELL MEEEEE! 💕😂😊

- I was impressed with the acting skills of Shin Se Kyung here as well. The role of Goo Hae Ryung suits her! Her portrayal of the character was so on point that it actually came out naturally. Good job! 👍🏻👌🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

I love how her character is so independent, responsible, intelligent, fun, aggressive (in a good way), lovable and just plain quirky with a sunshine-attitude. Like I said, I enjoyed seeing women do what is considered taboo in this particular era. It's something fun and interesting to watch. 💕😊👍🏻💯✅

In this day and age, I think we need more Goo Hae Ryung's in the world - someone who stands up for her rights; someone who is not afraid to do her part for the common good; someone who is not afraid of power; someone who does not bend over backwards for power; someone who is righteous and responsible.

Very few are blessed with this kind of courage. So, if you're one of these very few individuals, SALUTE!

Also, I love how she looks so elegant in a Hanbok. She's rocking the traditional outfit as if they were casual attires. No wonder she was part of the 2017 Hanbok PR Ambassadors. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

PO: I honestly think not all korean actresses look good in this traditional outfit. ✌🏻

- Their chemistry is 💯💕💕💕💕. They look good together. All their scenes made my heart flutter and skip a beat. 😍😍😍

- I like how the series tackled a bit about Christianity. There's this one scene that I really liked between Min U-won and another historian who was willing to let go of his position and to sacrifice his life for his religious belief.

I honestly appreciated my faith more because all this time (in my 26 years), I was and I am still reminded that all are equal - rich or poor - in the eyes of God. 💯😊✝️

- Friendship appreciation post: I loved how the friendship of the people in this series protected and cheered up each other.

It's always good to know that someone has your back - all the time. 😊✅💯

- Yo, I also loved the big reveal regarding the leads' identities. Goosebumps, everywhere! Especially...

SPOILER ALERT!

Especially when they confronted the king on the latter part of the series. Ooohweeee! Daebakkk!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

- Storywise, it's good. 💯

It talks about love, forgiveness, friendship, faith, loyalty, dignity and responsibility.

Kudos to the team for a job well done! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

Cons:

- Okay... I have to admit, I did find the acting skills of Cha Eun Woo a little mediocre at the beginning. It was as if he wasn't ready for the role...

Some of his facial reactions were either exaggerated or repetitive... ✌🏻

But, let me tell you this. Do not let this bother you. He's got something in store for you on the latter part of the series. Do watch. 👍🏻😊✅

- I was a bit sad too when I heard that Cha Eun Woo was paired with Shin Se Kyung. My first impression on Shin Se Kyung is not that good. I honestly thought that her acting skill is not that impressive (Personal opinion, friends ✌🏻)

I have watched her in The Bride of Habaek and I was quite disappointed. Same with The Girl Who Sees Scents. 😔

But then again, all more reason to watch this because she really showed off what she's capable of. I've come to love her here because her acting prowess was showcased beautifully! 💕👏🏻👍🏻

- Again with the villain predictability. One can say that this story has the usual sageuk villain. ✌🏻

Soundtrack:

Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung OST

My personal favorite is Fall in Luv by Henry. It's the first track in the link provided above. 👆🏻👆🏻

Highly recommended for those who want to stray from conventional dramas. This one's fun and really enjoyable! You won't regret it! 💯👍🏻😊

CTTO Photos/GIFs/Music

[drsamnewton]

Celebrate!!!                             Every achievement in your life

Every individual that is born on the surface of this earth is aspiring and working hard to succeed in life. Though the phenomenon is not limited to the humans alone, we talk only about humans in this article! We can invariably see every one trying to excel and succeed in whatever one is involved into! Every effort is aimed at doing so. And let me add here, that no effort put in, goes without giving a result, – though directly proportionate to the efforts and timing! What is missing is an eye, to see the results! All that due to lack of patience, that we the humans display from time to time.

No individual can grow without getting success at the smaller summits! In fact, it is the smaller achievements that actually are the cornerstones and the very building blocks of the monuments that we see in an individual’s life.

To understand the concept, let us take examples of the monuments, huge constructions that we see across the world, leaving a few isolated examples, all have been in fact created using the smaller bits and piece like stones, bricks, sand particles, granules of cement, pieces of wood, metal and so on and so forth. But as the human mind goes, it looks at the gigantic size and expanse of the construction and gets mesmerized, forgetting that at the core of the heart, a magnanimous structure is having a very humble piece, which we do not take into consideration and just think it is trivial. Even the reservoirs, which hold the mighty strength of the water, are simply made up of such multiple smaller granules. The weight of a moving train is absorbed by the individual pieces of gravel layered under the sleepers of the rail in unison with others. Similarly, we fail to see the smaller contributors in our life, the smaller steps, the insignificant achievements that have made us the person, that we are today, building us bit by bit, step by step, day by day, event by event into a giant of a personality that we are today! Just like in case of the monuments, we often fail to see the smaller particles that have held onto each other to make the grand structures they are today. Even when we notice the broken pieces inside the monument, we perceive them as an addition to the beauty of the monument. What makes us any different?

I don’t think, if one would not have cleared class tests, quarterly, six monthly and final exams of early schooling days, year after year, one would have been able to complete, one’s doctoral studies, post-graduation or even a graduation! The very base of the shining, gleaming career and the higher degrees that one is holding and is proud of, is the very humble class test that one has passed.

If one would not have played in the gully, with bat and ball or any other sport or game, one could not have been named on the national team! Even the people racing two wheelers or four-wheelers in various national or international events and circuits, must have started on a humble walker or a tri-cycles in their early days of life.

The best of the speakers and the orators that the world has seen, must have been warblers in their childhood otherwise todays proficiency would not have been achieved.

So, dear all, celebrating the smaller successes in day-to-day life is the crux and the mantra of the growth in one’s life, this has not to be forgotten.

We all have pitfalls, non-performing days, failed tests, alone times, frugal days, no money days but remember, whatever you are facing today, must have been faced by everybody born on this planet some or the other time in their own lives. But the shining examples that we have today must have worked up their ways once again, taking courage from the defeat, learning lessons from the mistakes, taking courage and consolations from the smaller victories or the provisions of the Lord.

As it is said that, the object which goes up, has to come down! But the fall of the object cannot take away the credit, that the object had soared in the air and had achieved a peak of its own. Even the spaceships launched after reaching the destined places have to fall town or go into ignominy in their life! So, do you not throw the object in the air, once again?

Let us understand that the life brings us, both, achievements and the failures. When you are walking through the negative trails of the life, please do not forget that some time in this very life you have been a successful person, might be as a kid, as a young person, as an individual and also have a potential to succeed once again. We can proudly learn from the examples of successful people born on this earth, be it Albert Einstein or our very own Amitabh Bachchan

Take heart from the achievement that you had and learn the tricks from yourself, of that success during those days and start applying the similar rules and efforts during these – not so great times.  Remember you have to also understand the forces and conditions that might be prevailing currently. Be an informed person, analyse the situation, make a strategy to court the issues you are facing and find a way to conquer them. If need be don’t forget to go back to the drawing boards, learning desks, empowering tracks and put in more efforts.

The issue is that we give up very easily looking at the uphill task, but remember, even the biggest of the issues are there, due to small mistakes committed by us. If we start taking corrective steps, attacking the smallest component, one at a time, start strengthening our mindset and say to yourself that you have got rid of one issue. This outlook to life will help you in getting rid of the downers in your life. As taught to the practitioners of the martial arts, when you are surrounded by a formidable strength of the opponents, who are out to beat you blue-black, take a position, look into the eyes of every individual, read them carefully, and hit with your maximum might to the weakest and most scared person among them. The person will be knocked down in just one punch or kick, part because of your strength (which was the maximum you had) and part because of the fear or lack of confidence (that the individual portrayed)! As a result, the entire group of the opponents who had encircled you with an intention to decimate you, will develop fear in the mind and take you as a stronger person than they had perceived earlier and will run away! Their mindset will not allow them to analyse the situation, that, their chum, who has been brought down by your in a single kick or punch, was the weakest among them and scared.

Life is like this, when you show stronger traits, the weak ones do not occupy your mind and you happen to win over the situation because of the mental strength alone, known as attitude.

When a long-distance runner or a homing-in driver runs or drives, he his focus on the reverse clock that he has built in his mind and keeps focusing on the distance that is remaining to be covered and not the total distance that he has to cover. Even the mountaineers, who attempt to scale the highest peaks, work on a very small height in a day (from summit to summit) and do not give a thought to the monumental height that they have to reach to!

I am sure, you also must be having such smaller successes, like the day you got your first job despite lot of struggle and a lineup of interviews, or the love of your life that you won over despite all the opposition, the admission of your kid to the coveted school that you could get despite all the stumbling blocks, the debt clearance that you could achieve despite all the odds being pitted against you, or even the love and appreciation that you get from your family members despite all the strong words or backlashes that you are subjected to in your professional life. The consolatory pat you deserve (should be given by you yourself) for taking care old parents, siblings, your distant relatives, challenged individuals in your own family or in the society, your contribution to someone’s wedding or hospitalisation or for somebody’s funeral rites! Pat yourself for taking that injured pedestrian to hospital or even putting the person into an auto-rickshaw or talking to a lost child on the platform or helping an old person cross the road. All these acts, which you must been involved should give you that positive thrust to go on.

Remember, dear, when the times are good you aim for the sky, the stars and the icons. But when you are down, look at the downtrodden, the not-so-able-bodied individuals, the destitute, the sufferers. You will realise you are the blessed one! You have more to celebrate!

If you want to understand the value of an eye (though you have two of them) look into the lives of blind people. And if you see the life of deaf and mute, you will realise the grace that the Lord has given you, by giving two ears to listen to the sound and a tongue to express yourself through sound bite and to sing! Look at a lame to understand the value of your legs and life of living torsos to value the gift of hands. Go around the hospitals to understand what your health and perfectly functioning organs within your body has been doing for you! Peep into the lives of childless couples to understand the value of the children in your life.

All the above can be considered as our achievements in our life. Once you look at them, you will get new vigor and courage, not only to stand up and give a bigger fight to the challenges in your life but to win them over forever. Once these defeating thoughts are put down by you, they will never return to haunt you!

Friends, please remember solitary life is a punishment. It is said solitary confinement in the jails are considered to be harshest of all the punishments! The other day, I heard a news report on NHK TV, it said, there are approximately 4 million Japanese individuals who are living solitary lives, no one or nowhere to go!

Think we are so lucky, that we are having our parents, our siblings, our spouses, our children, our acquaintances, our relatives, our friends, our pals, our chums, our neighbours, our society and so much! Why not celebrate all these things and remain happy and once again fight for the podium?

May the Almighty Lord bless all of us.

An effort by Dr Sam Newton (A humble servant of the Lord)

[orbemnews]

Analysis: Bezos leaves behind a company that's created value but has also triggered a national reckoning Bezos, the world’s richest person until recently, has gone from selling books out of his garage to running a company that makes consumer electronics, produces award-winning films and TV shows, offers organic groceries and hosts some of the world’s biggest websites. His company’s ambitions include delivering packages to households using flying drones and spreading facial recognition technology to virtually every consumer’s front doorstep. With each new innovation, Bezos and Amazon have offered the promise of making life easier, more convenient and enriching for customers. But these services also became testaments to Amazon’s ever-expanding power, influence and self-interest, inspiring fierce criticism from the company’s opponents: that Amazon kills brick and mortar businesses; that it bullies workers; that it uses the data from its massive online storefront to maintain a monopoly; that its partnerships with law enforcement have made it an accessory to discriminatory policing. “The guy was just obsessed with the end user. They were the highest priority,” said James Bailey, a professor of leadership development at George Washington University’s business school. “It’s one of those situations where your biggest asset is also your biggest liability.” Now, as he prepares to step down as CEO of the $1.7 trillion business he built and take on the role of executive chair, Bezos leaves behind a company that’s created immense value for consumers, investors and many small businesses, but which has also triggered a national reckoning over the costs it may have created for everyone else. A model for building online companies Bezos’s ambitions were large from the start: He launched Amazon at a time when few people knew what the internet was and chose the name, he later told journalist Brad Stone, in part because the Amazon river is “not only the largest river in the world — it’s many times larger than the next biggest river. It blows all other rivers away.” To achieve his vision, Bezos frustrated some shareholders by investing heavily in the business. It wasn’t until the end of 2001 that Amazon had its first profitable quarter, and its first profitable year didn’t occur until 2003. Amazon would continually flirt with profitability for the next decade. This approach would become a model for many others in Silicon Valley, and perhaps even something of an excuse for cash-hungry startups that seemingly burned through money without a pathway to profit. “Bezos created the blueprint for building internet businesses, being hyper customer-centric, and scaling disruptive innovation,” tweeted Aaron Levie, the CEO of enterprise cloud company Box.com. No other innovation symbolized Bezos’s appetite for losses like Amazon Prime, which was launched as a $79-a-year subscription plan and introduced what became the company’s most recognizable offering: free two-day shipping. On the surface, Amazon Prime stood to lose money. The cost of its benefits — which came to encompass not just fast shipping but streaming media, digital photo storage and discounts on groceries — outweighed what the company made in subscription fees. But it was another example of Bezos’s long-term plan to lure new customers into Amazon’s orbit and persuade them to become mega-spenders on the platform, thereby allowing Amazon to lower its costs even further to attract yet more customers, creating a virtuous cycle, or what Bezos called a “flywheel effect.” The company last year announced it has more than 150 million Prime subscribers worldwide. Relentless, or ruthless? As Amazon became a bigger player in retail, it inevitably came into conflict with others, both big and small. In some cases, it effectively drove them out of business. The bookseller Barnes and Noble announced in 2019 it was going private after a decade of trying to keep pace with Amazon. Toys”R”Us has blamed Amazon’s aggressive pricing for crushing the quintessentially American toy store. Rightly or wrongly, Amazon is often listed as a contributing factor behind the so-called retail apocalypse. And these days, the mere mention of Bezos’s interest in a new service is enough to send an entire industry’s stocks into a downward spiral. Like Walmart before it, Amazon has come to be viewed as “the new big bully, at least in the internet retail space,” said Bailey. Amazon famously clashed with book publishers over who controlled e-book pricing. It deliberately lost money selling diapers in order to thwart Diapers.com — then, according to a landmark antitrust investigation by US lawmakers, it acquired the company before raising diaper prices. (Bezos has said he does not recall giving an order to raise prices.) Amazon’s growing clout has allegedly given it immense leverage to squeeze its suppliers and to use third-party sellers’ own sales data against them to gain an anti-competitive edge. Bezos has argued that Amazon prospers not at others’ expense, but rather when it helps grow the whole pie. “Amazon’s success depends overwhelmingly on the success of the thousands of small and medium-sized businesses that also sell their products in Amazon’s stores,” he told Congress. Bezos also ruffled feathers when he held a highly publicized contest for the privilege of hosting Amazon’s newest headquarters. The so-called “HQ2” was pitched as an engine for local job creation and economic growth, particularly to small and mid-sized cities seeking development. For months, dozens of city leaders jockeyed for Amazon’s favor with offers of tax breaks and real estate. Ultimately, though, Amazon opted for Northern Virginia — just outside of Washington, D.C. — and New York, two of the nation’s wealthiest and most obvious metro areas, leaving many onlookers perplexed. (It later withdrew from New York after facing backlash from members of the community.) The entire episode was a bizarre flex of Amazon’s power and influence. To some critics, the good that Bezos has created does not negate the alleged harms. On the 2020 campaign trail, figures like Sen. Elizabeth Warren called for Amazon to be broken up, and regulators are circling. “The US and Europe are coming for Big Tech, and I don’t think the lawsuits against Facebook and Google are the end of it,” said Paul Gallant, an industry analyst at Cowen & Co. What’s good for customers isn’t necessarily good for workers Just as Bezos’s growing empire raised questions about whether it was good for other businesses, it also raised questions about whether it was good for workers. Rising automation, complaints about working conditions and a tough stance against unions all contributed to years of employee walkouts, petitions and, in some cases, lawsuits. Many of the company’s white-collar workers have also protested Amazon’s impact on the environment, calling on Bezos to make stepped-up commitments on climate change. (Amazon and Bezos later pledged to do more, with Bezos committing an initial $10 billion of his own money to fight climate change.) Early on in the pandemic, Amazon faced a warehouse worker revolt over a lack of hand sanitizer, masks and other protective gear. After one New York-based employee organized a protest over the issue, Amazon fired him for violating the company’s Covid quarantine policy. Amazon has since said it’s put in place temperature checks at fulfillment centers, ramped up its cleaning regimen, and established some 150 “process changes” to keep workers safe. Amazon has won plaudits for increasing its minimum wage to $15 an hour, but only after intense pressure from labor groups and some US lawmakers, including Sen. Bernie Sanders. And the same day that Bezos announced his plans to step down as CEO, the Federal Trade Commission said Amazon would pay more than $60 million to settle allegations that it withheld tips from its contract delivery drivers. In the coming weeks, Amazon workers in Alabama will vote on whether to form the company’s first US union. In response, Amazon has pushed for in-person voting despite the ongoing pandemic and launched a campaign to discourage unionization. “Jeff Bezos built his multibillion-dollar empire on exploitative practices including wage theft and surveillance tactics designed to bully workers into silence and prevent them from organizing,” said Rashad Robinson, president of the civil rights group Color Of Change. A tech icon whose reputation reflects his industry’s Despite the criticisms, Bezos will undoubtedly be remembered in the business world as a brilliant strategist and a disciplined entrepreneur. Bill Gurley, a prominent venture capitalist, called Bezos’s tenure at Amazon “the most spectacular CEO run of my lifetime.” In many ways, Bezos’s story with Amazon mirrors that of Silicon Valley. He began with a small idea in his garage that would change the world. He was lauded for innovating his way to success, putting in hard work and taking calculated risks. But those same choices also led to claims that his company had grown too powerful for its own good, and for the good of society. Now as allegations about Amazon’s power and approach to competition may be leading to a showdown with Washington, the billionaire CEO is tapping out. In a letter to employees this week, Bezos said he plans to spend more time on his newspaper, The Washington Post, and his spaceflight company, Blue Origin. He also plans to get more involved with his philanthropic initiatives, perhaps following in the footsteps of another transformational tech CEO — Microsoft’s Bill Gates. “Bezos wants to go out on top,” said Gallant. Source link Orbem News #Analysis #Bezos #company #Created #JeffBezos'scomplicatedlegacyasCEOofAmazon-CNN #Leaves #National #Reckoning #Tech #triggered

[tinamaetales]

Swag

“No matter how high the mountain is, it will not be as grand as your dreams. This is nothing hard! We get back up no matter how harshly we’re trampled upon” –Coach Yoon

Sixth K Drama: Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo

I guess out of all the K dramas I’ve watched this year, this one’s the most adorable and light hearted. Its storyline is simple yet relatable and the characters are lovely; the heroine is the most endearing I’ve seen in a while. Kim Bok Joo is just so adorable, I can’t even! In fact, while writing this blog post, I can’t help but smile. This K drama is heartwarming and makes you more appreciative of your youth. This K drama has SWAG!

Synopsis:

This is a coming-of-age story that tackles about the lives of students from Haneul Sport University. Kim Bok Joo, the heroine, is the star of their University’s Weightlifting team. She has a loving father and uncle who support her athletic endeavors wholeheartedly. They run a chicken store for a living. She has two equally awesome best friends, Nan Hee and Seon Ok. Her life took an adorable turn when she came across her childhood friend, Joon Hyung, who is also a student at their University and is an ace of the Swimming team. Overall, this is a story about fighting for your dreams, experiencing love and growth.

This drama reminds me so much of my school years and sometimes I can’t help but relate to Bok Joo especially when she’s dealing with her crush. It was just so me – awkward yet super kilig haha. What I like the most about this drama is that it doesn’t need to have a lot of twists and turns, its simplicity won my heart. Anyway, here is how the different themes from the drama affected me:

Fighting for your dreams.

Kevin Durant, one of the world’s famous athletes, said that “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard” and I couldn’t agree more to that. And since this drama focuses on the lives of student-athletes from Haneul Sport University, such quotation is very relevant. Obviously, all of them have talent for the sport they are pursuing however, talent is not enough for you to stay and become successful. If you really want something, you have to be willing to fight for it, to work hard for it, and to sacrifice. And I love how the drama showed the hard work and sacrifices that student-athletes are doing in order for them to reach their goals. The drama showed that despite being talented, the characters are also flawed but they shouldn’t let those flaws and other obstacles become a hindrance towards their fight. There are times when things become too much but instead of quitting, they took a short break and come back stronger and I think that’s remarkable – to be able to come back despite the chaotic situation you’ve been through. I was able to relate with the characters because of that even though I’ve never been a “sporty” kind of person. I was able to relate to Bok Joo when she felt overwhelmed with her weightlifting career that she decided to take a short break. It happened to me when I was still in University. The demands of being a University Scholar and Dean’s lister took a toll on me that I ended up putting my health at risk. Good thing is that my break down happened just in time for the semester break so I was able to think things through and I came back the next semester with a more positive attitude towards life. I also have a soft spot for Shi Ho; even though she’s the antagonist, I never really did hate her but instead I’ve understand where she’s coming from. Shi Ho was the star gymnast of their University but you know, in life you really can’t have it all so when she hit rock bottom, it was difficult for her. And I understand where she’s coming from because I’ve experienced that too. After College, I’ve realized that I want to pursue a different path and it was hard for me to admit that because everyone around me already expected that I will be continuing a career that is relevant to my degree. Like Shi Ho, it was suffocating to live by the expectations of others. I felt so lost last year. I felt so lost that I ended up manifesting my frustration and disappointment to myself by hurting others. Yes, I’ve hurt people not physically but emotionally since I’ve decided to cut off people that I thought were nagging me but were just really concerned about me. But also like Shi Ho, I was able to pick myself up, piece by piece, and become determined to start again. Like what that Taylor Swift song said, “I rose up from the dead I do it all the time” lol. I’ve decided to set myself free – free from everyone’s expectations and thus I felt like an ounce of burden was reduced off my chest.  I’m still on the process of finding my real purpose here on earth but at least I’m “on the way” after all, it is those things we called as “baby steps” that matters. Even though they’re baby steps at least there are still progress.

What I realized by watching this K Drama is that the road towards achieving our dreams is a rocky one and sometimes there are detours too but it’s okay as long as you decided to keep on moving forward. If you really want something, you fight for it. Don’t let your dreams be just dreams. WE have to become resilient for this world doesn’t pause for anyone. Resiliency, that’s the key.

Young love.

Ah, young love. Who never went through that phase? I doubt there is. I remembered my high school days wherein I will be happy and giggly all day just by having a glimpse of my crush. While having crush is cute and is a part of our youth, we should also keep in mind that anything’s’ too much is bad. We should not let our crush or admiration on someone become a distraction. And also, we should know our limitations. Those things are what we can learn from Bok Joo. I don’t want to say too much as to not spoil the drama for those who have not seen it yet so just picture it this way: it is okay to admire someone but it should not be too much that you are willing to go through risks in order to impress them or make them notice us.

Growth.

I love the way this drama ended – simple yet touching. All the characters deserved their own happy endings for they’ve all grown and become better persons. But one character stands out for me and that is Joon Hyung. He is a bubbly person and a star of the swimming team however, because of his problematic past, his performance was affected greatly. The trauma he experienced when his mother left him at such a young age gave him anxiety. It led to not being able to focus on his swimming career. Swimming is his safe haven but because he likes to keep the pain to himself, it piled up and slowly manifested itself through fear. He always makes a mistake every competition by making a false start that end up disqualifying him every time and since he doesn’t want to confront his emotions it ended up burning him out. He allowed his emotions to bottle up that one day it exploded. But because he’s a strong person, he was able to pick himself up after the explosion. His psychiatrist advised him (and I guess such advice was also meant for me) : “I hope you will confront that matters (resentment towards your mother and your complicated emotions towards your uncle’s family) squarely. Those emotions such as gratitude, guilt or tiredness from pretending you don’t know the truth.. should burst out at least once. Only then you will be completely free from the trauma you are having” He decided to finally confront things and he also learned the value of forgiveness. And because of that, he was able to set his self free from burden. That’s the kind of growth that I aspire: to be mature enough to confront my problems and to learn the value of forgiveness. I hope I’ll get there too.

Overall, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is a drama that would surely touch your heart. It will make you become more appreciative of your youth and at the same time be determined to grow and become a better person. As I’ve said, its simplicity won my heart and I hope it will do the same with you. This drama definitely has SWAG! And, I would like to end this blog post by sharing Kim Bok Joo’s final narration: “Everyone has a youth. A time that’s more beautiful because it’s awkward and clumsy, a time that shines brilliantly. A time when you’re not afraid of anything because you have nothing to lose, and a time when you’re excited because you can have anything, everything. That’s now, age 24, my youth. Although I’m still uneasy and nervous, I’m perfect without needing anything else.”

X,

TinaMae

for more of my kdrama related blog posts go to: https://tinamaetales.tumblr.com/tagged/k+drama

[your-lady-star]

Revealing the Star: Glorious Gladion

Sun and Moon satisfied the desires and hopes of many Pokemon fans. Not only did it set a new standard for future games to meet, it practically set a record for the most amount of enjoyment the fans found. Beautiful graphics, an amazing roster of Pokemon, an interesting story, and, most of all, a fun roster of characters.

And no character in the roster has stood out so much and won many players hearts quite like Gladion.

The newest rival to the main series games has already claimed himself quite the fanbase. He swept many fans off their feet, has generated a lot of buzz whenever he is to appear and his debut episode in the anime generated more hype than most of the episodes ever did, only being equaled with some of the most recent episodes.

And Gladion has most definitely earned all the praise he gets, and it all started with one aspect of him.

And this one goes without saying. Gladion is

1 rebellious young man.

Now, rebellious rivals aren’t anything new to the series. In fact, looking into it, a lot of Gladion’s story design is very similar to that of Silver: both are set up as being the son of the leader of the evil team you're fighting against, but they both are rebelling against their parent and are trying to prove how they are stronger without them.

What separates them is that while Silver’s motives are driven mostly by emotion and how he became so determined to achieve his goals that he ended up resorting to similar methods that the team he despises uses, Gladion never had to face that problem.

He chose to fight back with his own methods and never once lost sight of them. He never sank to the same level of the Aether Foundation. He stuck to what he felt was right and never strayed from his path. Though he chose to fight against his own mother, he never once became just as corrupt or heartless as her. And that really helped a lot to make him more enjoyable.

Characters that are built to be rebels that you have to both root for and fight alongside with can very easily fall into the pitfall of being annoying and incapable of being able to put up with them. But Gladion was able to avoid those pitfalls because he has an admirable goal that you want to see him succeed in. He’s not being a rebel just for the sake of spiting authority, he’s a rebel in hopes of becoming stronger and find the right answers. And this more flushed out reasoning is what made him likable and enjoyable to have around. Hell, I think some would even say that they enjoyed having Gladion around more than they did with Hau.

But one of the more notable traits that Gladion had gained from this rebellious life of his is a sense of maturity and independence.

And it’s easy to see that that trait came from him coming from

2 broken homes.

I swear, it’s almost ridiculous just how much Gladion has had to put up with despite being so young.

Having to not only put up with growing up in an organization that has done some horrific experiments on Pokemon lead by a woman who is slowly slipping further into insanity due to her crazed obsession, but also be a part of a gang where he was never seen as a proper member, thus was treated with very little respect, and then find out that the person who let you into the group never really liked you in the first place.

With both of these factors, it honestly doesn’t surprise me that Gladion became the person he is. In both situations, he’s had to deal with people who he know he can’t reliable count on, so he had to learn to protect and care for himself. He saw how both groups had their faults in their views and sense of morality, so he developed his own views on what is the right thing for him to do. And when both turn on him, rather than cower and break down, he stands up and fights back.

Even though both groups that he considered family did a lot that would seriously cripple any other person, Gladion used those bad experiences to grow stronger. These experiences, in a way, is what allowed him to become as mature and independent as he is, despite his age. It’s easy to see that Gladion is likely in his mid teens, and no teenager can take care of himself as well as he does. He’s learned to live on his own, care for himself and not do anything foolish to get himself into hot water. It’s why, in the post game, you have no problem that he is more than capable of taking charge of the Aether Foundation in Lusamine’s absence.

Gladion has proven himself to be a character capable of taking charge of heavier and more demanding task, not only because he has the knowledge to back it up, but also because everything he does is all to protect the

3 loved ones he fights for.

It’s very clear to see that these three are easily the most important people in Gladion’s life.

Even though we don’t see much interaction between Gladion and Lillie in the game, it’s still plain to see that he is very protective of her, as he trust you to make sure that nothing happens to her and practically pulls you along to rescue her without so much as a say on your part.

And while I am focusing strictly on the game, I actually want to bring to light the relationship between Gladion and Lillie in the anime for a bit, as recent episodes have really delved deep into it. He still has the protective nature for her, as he holds off the battle between him and Ash purely so Lillie doesn’t have to watch, but it’s been recently shown that the main reason why he set out on his own to become stronger was so he can take down the Ultra Beast that caused Lillie to develop her phobia of touching Pokemon. Again, surprisingly similar to another rival’s setup. Both anime Gladion and game Hugh decided to grow stronger as a trainer so they can make up for failures in their childhood, where they were both unable to help their sisters. Anime Gladion and game Hugh both prove to be characters you want to root for and are willing to help them to get closer to their goal.

Though Lillie isn’t the only family he has, there’s also Lusamine. Even though we don’t have a lot of screen time between these two, it’s clear to see that Gladion doesn’t hold any malice for what Lusamine has done and wants to bring back the woman he knows is his real mother. And from the looks of it, it seems like Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon will likely give us more of that, so I’m definitely looking forward to it.

And then there’s the last piece of him and easily the most integral and iconic, his bond with Type: Null and later Silvally. Considering that Silvally has become nearly as iconic as the character, to the point that separating them is downright impossible, it’s needless to say that there bond is the most fleshed out. Not only do we see how much care he has for his Pokemon, considering that he saved it from being forever cryogenically frozen, but we also see it from the fact that Silvally itself exist. This is an evolution that previously didn’t exist and he was the one to give it it’s name. We’ve had bonds between trainers and a specific Pokemon, but never so much that the trainer helped that Pokemon to achieve a new evolution and give it it’s own name. I think the only other instance we’ve seen of that is with Ash and his dusk Lycanroc.

And going back to the anime once more, the bond between Gladion and Silvally here is also very interesting, once again drawing parallels to the game while still being it’s own thing. Not only does he call Type: Null Silvally right from the start, but he is also shown to be protective of it as well. He keeps Silvally hidden from plain to avoid raising suspicions and makes Ash promise to not tell Lillie about it, since he likely knows it will only bring up the memories of her past (and with the most recent episode, it did).

And I think why the bond between Gladion and Silvally is my favorite is that it highlights something I’ve come to really like recently: showing a more deeper bond between a trainer and one specific Pokemon. When a trainer has a lot of Pokemon with them, it’s hard to highlight just how close they are with their Pokemon, so when they dedicate time to one specific Pokemon, it gives plenty of opportunity to show how close they are. The classic bond between Ash and Pikachu created this, and the recent games have done this as well, with the bond between N and his legendary dragon and AZ with his Floette being great examples of these bonds. N and his dragon show a bond between shared ideals and trust, AZ and Floette show a long term bond rich with history and forgiveness.

And Gladion and Silvally help to create a new type of bond, one of equal growth of trainer and Pokemon as they both mature. And we see plenty of growth in Gladion. As seen throughout his

4 battles.

One of the best ways to see how your rival in Pokemon develops is through every battle they have with you. And while Gladion doesn’t face you nearly as many times as other rivals in the series, each battle he has with you holds of great importance in showing how he is slowly changing.

The first battle not only served to make one hell of a first impression, but it allowed him to create his own stark contrasts to you and Hau.

Hau was very easygoing and just wanted to have fun, and that’s something Gladion couldn’t stand. Not only because he felt that Hau wasn’t taking anything seriously, but he saw that Hau had a lot of potential to become a truly strong trainer and take after his grandfather if he could just apply himself. Perhaps a part of him felt frustrated that Hau was just wasting his potential for the sake of wanting to have a good time. Whilst with you, he not only was able to witness your strength and care for your Pokemon first hand, but finding someone who was not only able to match him, but surpass him, made himself realize that he still had a long way to go if he was to become strong.

The second match with him at the Battle Royal might not seem as much since it was pretty short and the focus wasn’t really on him, but it did give the player the chance to see where his motivations to get stronger lies, not so much for his own gratification, but to ensure that he could protect his partner no matter what.

The third battle was really impromptu, but it did manage to play its part in his growth. For one, it showed that Gladion has a really short fuse when it comes to his family. And this was the start where Gladion no longer distanced himself from you and reached out to you for help, especially since the next section of the game shows you working alongside him.

The final battle with him before you challenge the Elite Four is what allowed him to show just how far he’s come, both in battle and outside of it. In battle, we got to see the bond he’s formed with his Pokemon, through most of his team comprising of Pokemon who evolve through happiness, now having access to Z-moves and introducing the evolution of his partner that he didn’t even knew was possible. Outside of battle, we see how much he’s visibly softened up, how he now has a new ambition to become as strong as you, how he is thankful for everything you’ve done for him and his family, and, even though he hesitates to call himself your friend, he still acknowledges that there is no longer any animosity between you two. And this does tie into what I said before, since this specific lines of dialogue goes back to what I said before about him wanting to earn friendships rather than having them handed to him. It’s a sense of respect that he wants to follow and it’s what adds into his enjoyability.

I found that Gladion does share some similarities to some of the best rivals in the series, specifically in one aspect. The aspect of knowing that they have earned your companionship, especially if they haven’t exactly been that nice to you beforehand. Knowing that they hold your genuine concern is what lets them know if they truly have turned to the better. It’s what’s helped to give us some of the best rivals in the games and it’s one of the biggest reasons why Gladion now sits in mine and many others list of

Top 5 favorite rivals.

Yeah, this is a pretty personal one, but it’s my analysis and I say it counts.

Had I waited until I played Sun and Moon before I made my top 5 favorite rivals, Gladion would have easily made it on at the number 2 spot. He did come rather close to matching N in terms of greatness and nearly topping him, but he just missed out on it. But it didn’t stop him from leaving quite the impression on not only me, but many other players. I know for sure that many people would happily say that Gladion ranks up as one of the best rivals in Pokemon and he has most definitely made it onto the list of characters that no one can dislike, and even if they do, they are really hard to find.

And that’s something to be pretty proud of, especially since it made up for

Gen 6′s lackluster rivals.

That’s right, I’m throwing in an extra number just for this guy.

I enjoyed X and Y, but even I can admit the game’s aren’t perfect. And one of the biggest issues in it are the rivals. It was a definitive case of quantity over quality, as each rival was not only very one note and had very simple and basic goals, but despite the amount of times they appear throughout the game, they hold very little memorability and didn’t really contribute much in the grand scene of it all. The closest that came to doing anything plot important was Calem/Serena, but it still didn’t keep them from just feeling like a retread of Brendan/May from Gen 3. I get that the idea was probably to give you a variety of rivals so they could be sure there would be one person that you become attached to, but because the time you spend with them is spread out so thin and none of that time is spent on developing them and showing them grow through their journey and your influence, it results in a cast of rivals that all share one thing about them: being boring. And it just makes the scene at the end where you stand alongside all your rivals feel so forced. It’s meant to be a moment where you rejoice in how far you got and how you were only able to do so because you were all working together to get there. But because your rivals never really did anything to help you get there, in fact they were more of a hinderance than anything else, it just feels like they're taking the spotlight away from you and your accomplishments. There’s no sense of comradery when you stand beside them, just extra baggage, and it made me weary of the way rivals would be handled in the future games.

But, luckily, Gladion came along and quashed those fears.

Not only did he show the benefit of working with fewer rivals and managing the time they’re given, but he showed just how important growth in them could be in not only creating a memorable rival, but a memorable character.

That’s why Gladion stands out so much in a game already filled with lovable characters. A sense of independence and maturity, a caring and protective heart, determination and a steeled will, and wanting to know that every bit of respect was earned. Gladion encompasses the best aspects of some of the best rivals in Pokemon and avoids the pitfalls that undermined the weaker rivals.

And with the upcoming Ultra Sun and Moon and future anime episodes, I doubt that the love for Pokemon’s official edgelord will be fading anytime soon.

http://pinochi.deviantart.com/art/F-Pokemon-Sun-and-Moon-Gladion-650725012

http://kawacy.deviantart.com/art/Forever-For-Always-651544928

http://pepperoonie.deviantart.com/art/It-s-YA-BOYS-649748662

http://ekkoberry.deviantart.com/art/Multi-cursor-speedpaint-Gladion-and-Lillie-648075757

http://kimchikat.deviantart.com/art/A-boy-and-his-chimera-644804394

http://knowyourmeme.com/photos/1212419-pokemon-sun-and-moon

http://yomitrooper.deviantart.com/art/Gladion-633021202

http://alolaninetales.deviantart.com/art/Gladion-648416770

http://poigo.deviantart.com/art/Pokemon-X-and-Y-Rivals-and-friends-385741937

[rilenerocks]

I wonder if all people are born equipped for life’s passions. And if they are, is the capacity for them the same for everyone? Does everyone start out with a genetically determined amount or is there an infinite level that is sometimes achieved and sometimes not, depending on what happens to each of us? I’ve spent quite a bit of time thinking about this. Some people seem like they’re boiling over with passion and others act so subdued that it’s hard to know if they’ve every experienced a single moment of that powerful sensation.

I think passion has lots of different connotations, both positive and negative. Some passions are conscious and others lurk below our mind’s surface. They can be enriching and growth-inducing or deleterious and damaging to our health. Passion can be enthusiasm and avid devotion. It can be overwhelming in both rage and love. It can be intense sexual attraction. It can be vehemence and anger. Probably it’s combinations of a wide range of feelings and this can be very confusing. I know that I’ve felt all types of passions ever since I was a little kid.

When I was about five, I got a chameleon. I loved it so much I squeezed it to death. What a horror. I was way too young to understand the implications of the potential for destruction associated with a positive feeling. But I learned more and more about that as I grew up. My parents told me I was born loving everyone and everything and that people loved me back. My mom said she was afraid someone might steal me, most particularly my dad’s sister, someone she detested. My older brother told me he first remembered being truly happy when I came along. Sad for him but good for me. I did love so many things with a passion. I loved my parents. I loved warm milk. I loved animals. I loved fudgsicles and chocolate popsicles. I loved playing outside. I loved school and school supplies, especially crayons, erasers and glue. So I guess I started out with my fair share of passions.

  As I got older, I extended all that passionate love to people. I loved my friends. I started to love boys. I loved sports and movies. I loved justice. So much passion. It wasn’t long before I started getting knocked around by reality. Reality was that just because I loved what I loved didn’t mean that I was going to reap big returns on my passionate investments. I loved school but after 9th grade, it mostly bored me to death and as I went off on my own to learn, my grades tanked. I had just enough natural talent to take me into college but nothing about that structure worked any better for me at that level.

  Then I realized that the just world I dreamed of may as well have been in a galaxy far, far away. The disappointment from that discovery ignited my negative passions which are still going strong today. Always something to be furious about and to fight against. Fuel for my engine.

  I loved participating in sports but that brought me negative attention. I wanted to be an attractive girl but my youthful participation brought me the nickname “moose” which had a profoundly negative effect on the joy I found as an athlete. In my junior year of high school I cut 60 PE classes and as a senior, had to make them all up, two for one, in order to graduate. On swimming days, I was soaking wet on and off for hours. But I still loved sports although I became more of an observer rather than a participant. I still have my swimming but at one point I dreamed of smashing home runs and spiking volleyballs for a long time. I made it back to volleyball as an adult, playing while pregnant. Maybe that vibe is why my daughter turned out to be an exceptional athlete in a time that was somewhat kinder to women than the days of my youth. Although not yet kind enough.  But let me stay on track here.

I was a passionate friend and potentially a passionate girlfriend when I was a kid. I fell in love easily. And I stayed there. There’s another component to my particular brand of passion – loyalty. My husband and my kids always told me I was the most loyal person they ever knew. That’s probably a fair assessment. Once committed to someone, at least in my own mind, if not in actual practice with the person I’ve sekected, I stayed put. I’m hard to get rid of once I’ve made my choices. Despite the fire that burns in me so frequently, I’m not the type to flame out. My burn is slow and long-lasting. A lot of disappointment and pain have to happen before I walk away from someone. I guess it’s fair to say that I have personal standards of how people should treat one another, my rules, for sure. But I’ll bend and accommodate for a long time before I give up on a person. Over the years, I’ve developed what I call my permanent list. I have occupants on that list who said or did something egregious enough so that I know I’ll never forget it, at least as long as my brain is functioning. But for the most part, that list is of those individuals who are beyond my forgiveness. I know that’s not a very politically correct attitude in current culture. Forgiveness is a real thing advocated around me. Being unforgiving is supposed to be bad for you, toxic and unhealthy.

Your Greatest Strength

1

Social intelligenceBeing aware of the motives/feelings of others and oneself; knowing what to do to fit into different social situations; knowing what makes other people tick.VIRTUE CATEGORY: HUMANITY

24

Forgiveness Forgiving those who have done wrong; accepting others’ shortcomings; giving people a second chance; not being vengeful.VIRTUE CATEGORY: TEMPERANCE

I took a personality trait test from a Yale-sponsored class a few months ago. You answer all these questions and a list of your character traits ranked from best to worst is generated. My best trait was emotional intelligence, followed by loyalty and my worst was the inability to forgive. Sounded right.  And it works for me. Michael was always trying to get me to let things go and be more forgiving. He said my hot rage and grudge holding was going to damage me physically. Well, look who’s still here and who isn’t? I’m living on the terms that suit me.

I guess I got the most bashed around emotionally by my first serious college boyfriend. I thought I was going to marry him. The truth is, I thought I was going to marry everyone I ever loved, going all the way back to when I was five years old. But this was the first genuinely reciprocated love I’d felt as a grownup and despite warning flags about not being ready and immaturity, I was convinced that if I fought hard enough, I could make this happen, even with evidence to the contrary popping up regularly and painfully. We were together on and off for three years. One morning after feeling that we’d had the best night of our life, I woke up to him telling me that we needed to break up and that things just couldn’t work. I was astonished, hurt and enraged. As he made his way out of my apartment, I followed him into the street, screaming at the top of my lungs that he would never find anyone who loved him the way I did and that he’d regret this decision for the rest of his life. My roommate and another friend dragged me back into the house as his metallic blue Chevy Hornet pulled away.

The fact is, he did figure that out later but by that time, I’d mostly recovered and was with Michael with whom I spent the rest of his life. Sadly, not the rest of our lives. Michael helped me rebuild myself and to believe that I could trust someone and reestablish my belief that a lifelong positive passion was possible. I’d already figured out that I could hang on to my negative passions about feminism, politics, economic justice, the health of the planet and the like. But I wasn’t sure about people. One of the places I put my positive passions was to sports, both teams and individuals. I could afford to invest myself in those without personal disappointments that had left me flattened and despairing. I picked my loyalties and stayed with them. I had favorite teams and players. I watched everything, football, basketball, hockey, swimming and became an Olympics junkie. As time went on I added tennis and soccer. I still remember the uniform numbers of those individuals who for whatever reason, won my heart. Jean Beliveau, #4 – Montreal Canadiens. Doug Mohns, #11 – Chicago Blackhawks. Doug Buffone, #55 – Chicago Bears. Fred Biletnikoff, #25 – Oakland Raiders. I could go on and on. A lot of my friends were surprised that I was so into sports, as many of them, particularly the contact ones dominated by males, seemed in direct conflict with my feminist politics. But I didn’t care what it seemed like. My personal passionate commitments had  cost me a significant amount of emotional angst. I think I was born with a fairly deep reservoir for giving but I’d come to realize that when I put myself out there, I’d best be prepared to be doing it because I needed to for me and not because of what I expected in return. I’d had a lot of disappointment from family, friends and lovers. With sports, the worst that could happen was that your favorites could lose. The pain threshold for those things was tolerable for me, easier than all the personal disappointments. At least, it always had been for many years. When the silent switch happened, I really wasn’t aware of it at all. I’ve only just figured out that my lines had gotten blurred below the surface of my consciousness because of what life dealt out to me. I was too busy in the living of it to recognize that I’d set myself up for a whole new undoing.

  So these sports. As a Chicagoan and a southsider, I loved the White Sox. I branched out and embraced the Cubs. I was a hockey fan and I sat with my dad as he agonized over DePaul’s basketball team. Except for golf, I’d watch almost anything. Eventually, tennis got my attention. I watched the women, Billie Jean King, Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Steffi Graf and of course, finally Venus and Serena. I admired their skills and grit. But I always loved the boys and most particularly, the ones who behaved well, rarely had tantrums or broke their rackets and in general, seemed to play against that spoiled brat type. No John McEnroes or Ilie Nastases for me.

  I liked the cool Swede Bjorn Borg, who played like a smooth machine. After him, it was Pete Sampras, who was just a kid when he started and had a long 14 year career, complete with those beautiful serves and the tenacity to keep playing after vomiting on the court from sickness and dehydration. The civilized guys. I made an exception for Jimmy Connors sometimes because he had high entertainment value. There were a few Australians thrown into the mix and the Croat Goran Ivanisevic who had sporadic talent but took forever to win the big tourney. But in the middle of Pete’s reign, Roger Federer appeared on the scene. And that was all she wrote for me.

  Federer broke into the big time as a teenager and was kind of a punk for awhile. But the tragic car wreck death of his Australian coach when he was 21 was a life changing event for him. Between that and his relationship with his older girlfriend who eventually became his wife, he pulled himself together and became who he is today, a brilliant champion, a genuinely loved public figure and a generous philanthropist. In short, my favorite tennis player.

  Federer’s been playing for 21 years. I’ve watched him countless times and always enjoyed his grace, elegance and tenacity. For most of those years I watched him and the other players during the four major tournaments, the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open. There was a lot of other tennis happening off my radar, many tournaments and point systems for rankings. I didn’t really care about that stuff. I was happy with what I saw, read articles so I had some idea of the background for the majors, and was generally content.

When Michael got sick seven and a half years ago, that was where I was at. As we processed his disease and what we knew would be a limited future, I was trying to get a handle on interests that would distract me from the constant pressure of anticipating death. Michael liked tennis too and had played for years as a young man. Often we watched matches together. But as time went by and we rode the waves of anxiety, I started to seek out more and more information about tennis. We’d switched cable tv providers and the Tennis Channel was included in our package. I realized that there were all kinds of tournaments and that Roger participated in lots of them. He was famous for holding records in places that had never crossed my radar. And we had a DVR. I started taping everything. When I had nothing to do, I started watching more tennis. I liked other players but Roger was the one. As the months of Michael’s illness progressed, we both labored under the strain of wondering how much time we had left to enjoy our life. Sometimes I drove my reserved husband crazy, wanting to talk through everything all the time. He was in treatment, often tired and in need of rest. I had lots of time on my hands but I wanted to stay nearby, soaking in every minute of life with Michael. So I turned to the box where Roger waited in the DVR. He was such a joy to watch. Healthy, easy and an amazing contrast to my precious guy who was carrying such a huge load. Over time, I decided that who needed a DVR when you could set an alarm and watch a tournament live from Australia, China or the Middle East? We didn’t really have a normal routine or schedule any more so I could make my own hours. As years went by, Federer’s wins or losses began to affect me more and more. The worst time came in 2016 when he sustained a knee injury while bathing one of his kids. He decided to withdraw from the professional tour for months while he rehabbed thoroughly and tried to decide if he could return and play at the championship level again.

  I was worried about it but at the time I was really focused on the stretch of good health Michael was enjoying so we took advantage of an excellent fall and traveled a lot. I had concerns about some signs of immune system letdown in Michael but as late as December, 2016, we were in our happy place at Starved Rock and life seemed even and predictable. Unfortunately that languorous period was short-lived. By the first week of January, Michael’s behavior was unusual. His appetite was diminished and he had some odd moments when he wasn’t making a lot of sense. We went in to see our oncologist who did some bloodwork and ordered a scan. Everything came back clean. So on we went. Things got stranger and stranger. I began to believe that there was an occult return of Michael’s cancer and began a nagging process that drove him nuts. He wanted to leave well enough alone and I didn’t. We began bickering. Right around the same time, Roger was getting ready to emerge from his medical exile and enter the Australian Open.

As days went by, Michael’s behaviors became odder and odder and I kept dragging him back to the doctors. Meanwhile, Roger was winning match after match. I was up in the night, watching him in real time and trying to avoid arguing with Michael who was annoyed with me. The doctors kept finding nothing. On January 29th, 2017, I had the pleasure of watching Roger win his first major since being injured.

On January 31st, I prevailed upon Michael to let me bring him to the ER to see if we could get him a brain MRI, the only test he hadn’t had. By that night we had the dreadful diagnosis of carcinomatous meningitis, a rare manifestation of certain solid tumors that’s becoming more common as people survive their original cancers for longer periods of time. We were devastated, Michael even more than me as he’d believed the continuing positive reports while I knew something was terribly wrong. We had a 32 day siege in the hospital and then I was able to bring him home in early March. The median survival time for this disease was 4 weeks from diagnosis. Michael hung on for almost seventeen.

  Meanwhile, the French Open began close to the end of Michael’s life and I continued to watch through June 11th. I remember thinking how ironic it was that Roger’s playing bookended the last months of Michael’s life. When July came, along came Wimbledon. I watched all of it and Roger emerged victorious. That highlighted my summer of preparing for the celebration of Michael’s life which was planned for December. When that was over, I stared down 2018, trying to figure out what to do with myself. I started this blog on January 1st. I was in the midst of planning my 50th high school reunion and also wanted to do a little traveling.

  I finally landed on the Western-Southern Open tennis tournament in Cincinnati, a chance to see Roger in the flesh for the first time. As he was getting older I figured I’d better get that bucket list item done. Additionally, the Laver Cup, Roger’s creation was happening in Chicago, at the same time as my reunion.

  I bought tickets to that as well. Both events were wonderful and I was so glad I went. Roger won some and lost some and I felt satisfied. But as time passed I found watching him, especially when he lost, to become more and more stressful. I was aware of the negative feelings but not sure what to do about them. Each match got worse and worse. This was not supposed to be my relationship with sports. I was irritable, frustrated and hostile. I could barely stand being with myself. When my son was around he tried to be comforting but I was basically so obnoxious he’d wind up leaving me to my own devices. I started thinking really hard, going back over the seven and a half year history of Michael’s disease, death and this mourning period. A lot has happened to me during that time. I spent a lot of emotional capital during those years. I spent an extraordinary amount of love on my marriage, so much that I often wonder if I can love anyone or anything new ever again. Even a pet. And then just this past week in the midst of an ugly US Open for Roger, I recognized what I’m referring to as a silent switch. Somewhere back there, as I recognized that my time with Michael was running away, I put a lot of my heart into Roger, a sports guy who was supposed to be a distraction, not someone personal. As his fortunes ebb and he gets closer to retirement I realized that my outsized reactions are more like living through an intimate loss instead of just watching an athlete’s life come to its normal conclusion. I realized that I’d transferred some of my feelings about Michael’s absence to a weird anticipatory despair about Roger’s career coming to an end. How bizarre is that? Probably not very. Roger’s trajectory is another ending, a metaphor for what I’ve been coping with for a very long time. I didn’t recognize exactly when it happened but I know it did. And acknowledging the inappropriate outsized reactions I was having helped me see the need to face this metaphor for what is – a familiar road twisted into an inappropriate level of importance. It’s time to set it back in a more normal place. Ironically, during this week of internal probing and exploring, I’ve been outside in my garden a lot. I had no trouble identifying two adult butterflies, feeding, still strong but battered by predators, perhaps by wind. But still living out there in the world. I was aware that I identified with them. No silent switching in this case. Awareness is hard and often mysterious. I’m going to keep going after it. It’s better than living in the dark. 

      The Silent Switch I wonder if all people are born equipped for life’s passions. And if they are, is the capacity for them the same for everyone?

[brisbanelife]

'Flight shame': How climate guilt is the newest threat to airlines

The backlash against air travel was front of mind for 150-or-so top airline executives who gathered in Seoul this week, where the International Air Transport Association warned anti-flying sentiment would only grow and spread if they let it go unchallenged. The European Union says a person flying from London to New York and back generates about the same carbon emissions as they would from heating their home for an entire year. Carrying more than 4 billion passengers last year, the global aviation industry is responsible for about 2.5 per cent of the worlds carbon emissions a bigger contribution than Australias. In fact, if the aviation industry was a country, it would one of the worlds 10 worst polluters.

Qantas operated its first flight powered by a meaningful amount of biofuel last year, using a 787-9 (pictured) and is trying to establish a dedicated bioful crop in Australia. Its a legitimate question people are asking, said Michael Gill, IATAs top environment official, on the sidelines of the groups annual general meeting. My answer is that theres nothing to be ashamed of. Were actually an industry thats put in place a very ambitious plan to slow down, to stabilise and then in fact reduce our CO2 emissions. Climate battle Airline bosses say this makes theirs a leading industry when it comes to acting on climate change, and see the need to spread that message to combat anti-aviation sentiment. The communication battle is ours to be won or lost, Qantas boss Alan Joyce said between meetings in Seoul. Were meeting those targets already. We need to do more to make sure the large proportion of people that are not convinced by this dont fall into the wrong camp because they dont have the right information. The industrys plan is to cap its net carbon emission from next year, even as passenger numbers are forecast to double over the next two decades. And IATA whose 290 members account for 82 per cent of the worlds air traffic - has pledged that by 2050 it will have cut its carbon output to half what it was in 2005. Starting next year airlines will use a scheme set up with the United Nations aviation body to offset emissions growth with credits from activity like growing trees, which sucks carbon from the atmosphere.

Air New Zealand is looking at putting electric engines on its smallest aircraft. Credit:AP After 2035, the industry says the amountof carbon aircraft put into the atmosphere will fall thanks to technological and engineering advancements. Carriers have already significantly cut fuel use their single biggest expense - thanks to new, lightweight aircraft and other measures to fly as light as possible. The global industry has improved its fuel efficiency by 2.4 per cent a year on average since 2009 - comfortably beating a target it set itself of 1.9 per cent. Air New Zealand chief executive Christopher Luxon saw the biggest challenge for his industry coming in the next 20 or 30 years as other industries de-carbonised making aviations relative contribution even greater. Youve got to start that journey now, he said. The Kiwi carrier is one of several looking at whether battery power could be a clean, green alternative to jet fuel. Its formed a joint venture with aircraft maker Aerei da Trasporto Regionale to explore electric or hybrid engines for its fleet of 68-seat turbo-propeller aircraft. In a country like ours with sustainable electricity and renewable electricity, its a good place for us to be heading to, Mr Luxon told the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. On turboprops, we could probably within seven to 10 years actually see an electric aircraft that could be flying in regional New Zealand. Environmental benefits aside, Mr Luxon also thinks electric engines would be cheaper to run and make the airline more profitable. 'Within touching distance' While tantalising, aviators electric dreams are some time off. A more fundamental and immediate solution, according IATAs Mr Gill, is to replace oil-derived jet fuel with biofuel, which can cut emissions by up to 80 per cent. Thats available today, he said. All the pieces are in place its within touching distance. Loading The problem is that despite being cleared for commercial use and easily substituted for traditional gas, alternative fuels are barely being used filling up just 0.01 per cent of the industrys combined fuel tank today. At two- to three-times the cost of traditional jet fuel, according to IATA, airlines just arent willing to put themselves at such a disadvantage in fiercely competitive and volatile business. The solution, said Mr Gill, was for airlines to enterlong-term biofuel supply agreements which will give manufacturers the confidence to start making the stuff at a commercial scale. By 2025 IATA wants sustainable fuels to reach 2 per cent of total supply, a tipping point that it thinks would constitute a viable market, triggering a fall in prices and a broader uptake by airlines. Efforts are being made. Virgin Australia started a trail late last year pumping a mix of traditional and sustainable fuel from American producer Gevo Inc. through the fuel system at Brisbane Airport, preparing that supply chain for an eventual transition to cleaner fuel. And Qantas last January operated its first international flight powered with a meaningful amount of biofuel, using a 10 per cent blend of biogas derived from Ethiopian mustard seeds (or Brassica Carinata, as botanists call it). That achieved a 7 per cent reduction in carbon emissions on the flight from Los Angeles to Melbourne compared to using standard gas. Qantas and the agricultural technology group Agrisoma Biosciences are trying to grow the same mustard seeds in Australia, with the hope of producing our first aviation biofuel seed crop next year. 'Too little, too late' Airlines and IATA also say government subsidies and incentives are needed to encourage investment in alternative fuel manufacturing. Loading But IATA rejects putting a tax on emissions to hasten the shift away from traditional jet fuel, which it argues would only make airlines pay for their emissions with no guarantee of reducing them. Despite their efforts, not everyone is convinced the airline industry is doing enough to combat its climate footprint. Its emissions targets are too little, too late, according to Professor Will Steffen, a researcher and climate change expert at the Australian National University and a Climate Council member. Our entire economy - including aviation - must be down to net zero emissions by 2050 at the latest, he said. Aviation would have to develop and fund a massive NET (net emission technology) program to continuously remove their 50 per cent of [2005 level] emissions they still plan to emit, and store them permanently underground." For Mr Gill, the hard questions facing airlines is not something he or IATA are too worried about. Its actually something were inspired by, he said. It shows we have a generation of potential passengers that are willing to discuss and debate and challenge us to do even more. The reporter travelled to Seoul as a guest of IATA and Korean Air. Reporter for The Age Most Viewed in Business Loading

[enthralleddd0112]

What They Say about Do Kyungsoo  (Compilation as at July 2017 - will be periodically updated)

Note: List is arranged in chronological order of project’s screening Disclaimer: LONG POST AHEAD

Drama <Its Okay, It’s Love> (2014) Kyungsoo played supporting role, Han Kangwoo, a high school student, the hallucination of male lead actor, Jo Insung. 

Kim Taeyong (Director)

“In his previous project <It’s Okay, It’s Love>, he managed to portray the perseverance of a scarred child and was also able to express righteousness through his eyes. His acting is so outstanding that others around his age is unable to rival his standards.”

Kim Kyutae (Producer)

“Kyungsoo-ssi delivered way beyond my imagination and showed me his potential. Having said that, we still put him through a challenging pre-filming training…his work was definitely above my expectations, especially during the later stages of filming. He gave me the feeling that I discovered a gem.”

Noh Heekyung (Screenwriter)

“Kyungsoo will become a great actor. I like his humility and how he’s focused on delivering his character to his best.”

Jo Insung (Costarring Actor)

“D.O. definitely has what it takes to become an excellent actor. To help, I even shared with him the knacks of acting and everything I knew.”

“D.O.’s biggest charm is his individuality and assertiveness.”

- 韓国TVドラマMagazine Interview

“As everyone knows, he’s really a very busy kid, even during filming intervals, he’ll be required to fly back and forth (Korea), but despite that, it never once affected our filming schedule. He’s also always focused and puts his best foot forward and persevered to the end. Perhaps him being this way helped us achieved such a great outcome.”

- MONTHLY ASIAN NEWS

“Although many may think that he’s here because of (his affiliation to) EXO, but Do Kyungsoo’s acting is really beyond my imagination and I am so surprised. We have really found ourselves a brilliant actor; it's acting that even amazed screenwriter Noh Heekyung and Producer Kim Kyutae."

- TV Drama ‘It’s Okay It’s Love’ Press Conference

Gong Hyojin (Costarring Actress)

“Kangwoo’s expressions are really great. He looks innocent and the appeal of his eyes is really unbeatable. Kangwoo is this drama’s touch of brilliance, really.”

- TV Drama ‘It’s Okay It’s Love’ DVD

Yun Seokjin (TV Drama Critic) 

“D.O. has played his character in such as astounding and in-depth manner…D.O. has a good feel of the role and had successfully played the hallucinated character (in <It’s Okay, It’s Love>)…his growth rate is the fastest among idol-actors.”

- Entertainment Weekly

Lee JeongHwa (Ten Asia News Editor)

“D.O., who played Han Kangwoo in <It’s Okay, It’s Love> is a newcomer actor who’s able to accurately grasp and portray deep sadness. Even when he smiles, he expresses an innocence and immense grief that he may not have even realized. Every time he appears in the drama, he moves the audience. Of course, his stable vocal projection and acting need no further mention.”

Heo Jiwoong & Park Jiyoon (TV Show Hosts)

Heo: “Initially, I didn’t know he was an idol, and he left such a deep impression in that signature scene when he was running alongside Jang Jaeyeol (played by Jo Insung). It’s a pretty challenging scene to do well, but it didn’t appear awkward or pretentious at all.”

Park: “This scene is really one that’s challenging, but he acted really well, a new acting idol is born.”

- JTBC TV programme ‘Ssulzun’ [2014.08.14]

Film <Cart> (2014) Kyungsoo played supporting role, Choi Taeyoung, a high school student, son of female lead actress Yum Jungah. 

Boo Jiyoung (Director)

“He did really well. The casting director recommended him as someone with great eyes but when I saw him, he wasn’t really like the bright, smiley kid shown on the picture. It seems like he has a quiet world of his own, somewhat melancholic, but at the same time having the positive energy of what someone his age should possess. I had a really great first impression of him. Although it’s the first time he’s participating in an acting project, he was able to earnestly absorb and deliver comments and requests that I gave, which is really challenging for a first-timer. Needless to say, I saw potential in him.”

- MONEYWEEK Interview

“When I have only seen his photos that were taken with his ‘idol group’ in his singer capacity, they were all pictures that showed his bright and happy expressions so I could not decide if he was suitable for the role (of Taeyoung), but when I saw him in person, I was genuinely surprised by him. He did not appear like an idol, and is mature and rather quiet. At that point, I was struck by my instinct that this kid will be able to handle the role.”

- IVY Magazine

“Kyungsoo participated in the casting together with other idols. He competed and won the role of ‘Taeyoung’ honourably. Compared to the other actors, his expressive set of eyes was the best.”

Yum Jungah (Costarring Actress)

“Given that this is his debut acting project, he did really well. But what really surprised me was his character – he’s righteous and very courteous – I hope my son grows up and be like Kyungsoo.”

“Do Kyungsoo is really a kid worthy of praise. His acting’s great and he’s also kind. Additionally, as an actor, he’s also prepared himself in many ways, it’s really hard for me to find any weakness.”

- KPOPSTARZ Interview

“D.O.’s acting will change one’s perception on K-Pop idols’ abilities.”

- Apple Daily Interview

Kim Sooan (Costarring Child Actress)

“I like D.O. oppa! I grew to like D.O. oppa as we filmed <Cart> together. His acting is really good.”

- StarNews

Kim Heewon (Costarring Actor)

While attending SBS Power FM ‘Kim Changryul’s Old School’, Kim Heewon was asked, “Among the movies and TV dramas, who is the hoobae that you think have the greatest potential?” to which he revealed, “…the other (actor) that I wish to work with is EXO member D.O., he had an extraordinary charm when he acted for movie <Cart>. Before meeting him, I didn’t know he was a singer, his cold persona in the movie looked really great.”

- SBS Power FM ‘Kim Changryul’s Old School’

Kim Young-ae (Costarring Actress, but shared no scenes together)

“When I watch Kyungsoo’s outstanding acting performance, I’d want to hug him. His acting really amazed me.”

- Movie ‘Cart’ Press Conference

Uhm Junghwa (Actress)

Actress Uhm Junghwa on her twitter, “I attended <Cart> VIP premiere today and it’s really such a great film. It’s heartbreaking…sad…and leaves a deep impression. All the actors were good, and our cute Do Kyungsoo-ssi’s acting is really good too~”

- Uhm Junghwa’s Twitter (@love_tangle)

Roh Hoechan (Politician, Former Parliament Member)

“I had to try very hard to hold back my tears during the premiere of movie <Cart>. Both Yum Jungah’s and Do Kyungsoo’s acting are excellent and the movie’s main lead character is actually E-LAND Union. To be reunited here to watch this movie after 8 years, it feels even more impactful. (The movie is) Highly recommended!”

Drama <I Remember You> (2015) Kyungsoo played cameo role, Lee Joonyoung, as a psychotic serial murderer.  

Jung Sunghyo (Chief Producer)

“Lee Joonyoung is a challenging character to play since he’s supposed to be a beast-like character that’s will strike viewers in a frightening way. Do Kyungsoo was able to digest and deliver the character in a way that’s shockingly great.”

“When acting, Do Kyungsoo isn’t copying anyone (or take references), he really immersed himself in the role so as to portray the character, which is really different from other idols’ acting, allow the outcome to feels whole and rich. After watching <I Remember You>, I think he will definitely receive invitations from many projects.”

- SportsQ Interview

Seo Inguk (Costarring Actor, but shared no scenes together)

“What’s regretful this time is that I don’t have any scenes with D.O.; I was really looking forward to it as I’ve heard how good his acting is. Particularly, he played the younger rendition of Lee Joonyoung, which turned out far beyond my imagination and I am really astonished! I feel that although he’s my hoobae and younger brother, there’s still much for me to learn from him.”

- IQIYI Interview

Kang Yewon (Actress)

During 25th Seoul Music Awards, Kang Yewon mentioned that she has recently watched <I Remember You> and revealed that she’ll like to work with Kyungsoo once. When the cameras pan to D.O., the audience went wild, which shocked Kang Yewon. Thereafter, she mentioned, “If Do Kyungsoo is available/willing, she’d like to collaborate once.”

- 25th Seoul Music Awards

Shin Jaeha (Actor)

“I will refer to similar-aged actors’ projects and recently I have taken a lot of reference from Do Kyungsoo’s performance in <I Remember You>. He feels like a really good actor, I am genuinely astonished by his natural acting talent.”

- Tenasia Interview

Film <Unforgettable> (2016) Kyungsoo played his first lead role, Beomsil, a high school student, who has a innocent and huge crush on of female lead actress Kim Sohyun, and was willing to do anything for her. He shared lead roles with a total of 4 other actors including Joo Dayoung, Lee David and Yoon Joonseok, as the movie depicted the friendship among the five friends. 

Lee Eunhee (Director)

“I actually watched all the projects that Do Kyungsoo was in, so naturally I see him as an actor and not an idol. He has expressive eyes and a good vocal tone. After meeting him, I felt that he was sincere, honest, yet bashful. It’s exactly who Beomsil is. During the filming of the movie, my opinions and perceptions of him were then confirmed.”

- EDAILY

“While I was writing the script, I didn’t really care until I found Do Kyungsoo. He left a really deep impression on me with his performance in <It Okay, It's Love> and his maturity level seems to surpass my imagination. At that time, I thought to myself, ‘How can I possibly not know him when he’s a member of the wildly popular idol group EXO?’ Thereafter, I went to research and collect many of his previous interviews articles as well as a lot of information about him before we eventually met up. Although I still wasn’t sure at that time, I pretended like I knew a lot about him. He’s very conscientious in his work. While he may not have a mature, masculine outlook, but neither does he look like a child. While we filming, I didn’t think he was that good looking. But while we were at the post-production stage, I realized how handsome he truly is. To have debut as an idol, it must have been very challenging. It’s like fighting a war everyday, having to firm his ground in the competitive environment, be it back in the days when he’s a trainee or all the way until now. There must be a reason that keeps him unwavering and a belief that’s spurring him on. To have successfully completed his first lead role movie while showing no signs of fear throughout the 70 scenes that were filmed, it’s highly possible that’s he someone who has what it takes to bear the weight of the crown."

- StarNews

“I find their pupils (of their eyes) very similar. I have previously mentioned that Kyungsoo has eyes seemingly like windows; so does Park Youngwoo sunbae-nim. They can’t hide emotions in their eyes; they can naturally convey emotions through them without having to try too hard.”

- SBS Power FM Cinetown [2016.02.18]

“Kyungsoo is an actor with eyes seemingly like windows such that he’s able to express all emotions through his eyes.”

“When he’s practising the scenes with his co-actors and they need to look him in the eyes - D.O. doesn’t pre-plan how he expresses the scene in his head, he lets his heart and feelings lead him in his acting and expression of the needed emotion, which the scene even more powerful.”

Kim Sohyun (Costarring Actress)

“All the staff on set liked actor Do Kyungsoo.”

“As I have participated in several dramas previously, I carry with me a preconceived image that the audience expect of me due to past projects. Conversely, Beomsil (Kyungsoo) is able to act freely and present a fresher image to the audience. The director had requested that we interacted naturally and I was able to do so, responding realistically to Kyungsoo oppa’s natural acting. Kyungsoo oppa is really expressive, and helped bring out a lot of my genuine emotions. With that, I could respond with even more ‘sincerity’.”

- Star Daily News

“Do Kyungsoo poppa has a manly charm. He speaks considerately and is always courteous to the people around him. Such acts show how mature he is. He’s also very serious when it comes to acting which encourages his co-stars to think deeper too.”

- Focus News [2016.08.31]

“When filming with D.O. oppa, I don’t think of anything else. Oppa is able to present and showcase the character’s emotions at every moment, and so I don’t have to try too hard to evoke my own emotions. I just need to follow oppa’s (acting) momentum to act.”

Joo Dayoung (Costarring Actress)

“I had originally only thought of Kyungsoo oppa as an amazing actor. I wasn’t aware that he is a member of EXO. I am not one that pays much attention to idols and had previously noticed him through drama <It’s Okay, It’s Love>. After costarring in the movie together, I then found out the existence of EXO-Ls.”

Park Youngwoo (Costarring Actor)

“I have never mentioned that only Kyungsoo is great, but I must admit that I did say he’s really good looking. But based on what Director Lee said, it seems that I become expressive whenever I see him. It must seem that I really like Kyungsoo a lot. Whenever I meet Kyungsoo, I will naturally give him a hug first.” 

“I suppose I behave that way since he’s ‘me’. I don’t really understand Kyungsoo, so I can’t say we are close. But exactly because I think of him as ‘me’, I can naturally do that (give him hugs and/or take care of him). Don’t overthink matters. No matter what, since we play the same character, I may have been being more emotionally attached to him.”

Hwang Seokjeong (Costarring Actress)

When responding to what she thought of the five lead young actors, “They are all kids with strong desires. They all had their ideas and opinions, which included portraying their respective characters well and not to let down the entire movie. They accorded ‘pure love’ to their characters. Although Kyungsoo had the least acting experience, he is gifted with an extraordinary charm which is amazing.”

- The Fact Interview [2016.02.24]

“I don’t have many scenes with Kyungsoo nor Sohyun, so we aren’t that close. However, whenever I see them on set, I often wind up asking myself ‘What do I do to have such innocent and bright eyes (expressions)?’ It’s amazing, I should have experienced those when I was at their age too.”

Web Drama <Be Positive> (2016) Kyungsoo played lead role, Kim Hwandong, a university student who received funding for his film project but encounters many other problems that he needs to overcome. 

Lee Byeonhyun (Director)

“I had observed D.O., Xiumin, Suho and Kai’s acting in great detail.”

“Because of the desire to work with him (D.O.), I’ve been observing him a lot.”

- MBC every1 ‘Video Star’ [2016.09.20]

“I already liked D.O. during his performance in movie <Cart>. I’ve never expected him to act so well, I’m truly astonished. I’ve watched his projects such as SBS drama <It’s Okay, It’s Love> and movie <Unforgettable>, among others. When I saw him in person, his eyes are clear and deep, I’m totally absorbed by them. I would like to collaborate with him at least once and wasn’t expecting an opportunity to come by so quickly. As compared to movie <Twenty>, I believe this character that’s really cheerful, healthy and youthful, matches D.O. really well.”

Joo Woojae (YGKPlus Model, DJ and Radio Show Host)

“A web drama that I’ve been following recently. (His) Acting is really good. It’s as if he’s a person just like Hwandong. He’s really natural. It’s funny. #BePositive #DoKyungsoo”

- Joo Woojae’s twitter update (@toysiesta) [2016.11.03]

Lee Song Hee II (Director)

OP’s acquaintance works in filming industry and knows many directors. He (she) said whenever he (she) meets his (her) friends, he (she) hears many praises about Kyungsoo saying that he cooperates well and he’s nice and very polite. Director Lee Song Hee Il  is one of the members of jury during BiFan this year. He knows Director Lee Byeonhyun (who directed <Be Positive>) and also close to OP’s acquaintance. After Director Lee Byeonhyun praised Kyungsoo, he watched <Be Positive> and during drinking party, he talked to OP’s acquaintance for 3 hours and a half praising Kyungsoo non-stop.

- via twitter fan acc @dyominati [2017.08.15]

Film <My Annoying Brother> (2016) Kyungsoo played lead role, Goo Dooyoung, an up-and-coming national judoka who lost his sight during an accident in a competition. He played against Jo Jungsuk, who played his elder brother, who’s a swindler, and made used of his accident to obtain a parole out of prison.

Kwon Sookyung (Director)

“It’s extremely lucky and I’m grateful that the two actors that I had in mind (referring to Jo Jungsuk and Do Kyungsoo) for the respective roles passed the casting.”

- 韩EToday

Jo Jongsuk (Costarring Actor)

“He’s really cute and polite, and one can conclude that’s he’s got a good upbringing. While we do share some age gap, he’s really such a courteous kid, so despite only meeting a couple of times, I have a good feeling about him. I have been interested to film a movie with a warm storyline for quite a while, and audience will be able to feel warmth from the movie <My Annoying Brother>."

- OSEN News

“All thanks to the staff, filming has ended smoothly. Kyungsoo, my young brother also displayed a never-before charm in the movie, please look forward to it.”

- Movie <My Annoying Brother> Celebration Dinner

“As I've watched movie <Cart>, I didn't have any negative perception of him. In fact, it even felt good after meeting. Do Kyungsoo’s got very good focus. I had previously shared with him that ‘his many emotional portrayals doesn’t seem to be captured onscreen,’ to which he accepted graciously and even worked on improving his acting It’s undoubtedly challenging to portray emotions, but he does them well. I think he’s a very sensitive actor.”

- TV Report [2016.11.16]

“To be honest, you know how it's like to have brothers at home, and we would have the feelings that "we are not so alike"? But it's amazing that after spending more time together and staying together, we start to become similar in some way and this is what I experienced with Kyungsoo during the filming of movie <My Annoying Brother>...yeah...I actually felt that way during the three months of our filming together. As compared to the first half of the movie filming, I started to have the thoughts of, ‘we are really alike’ a lot more often during the second half of the filming process. Actually, instead of saying that we look alike in terms of our appearance such as our eyes, ears, mouth or nose, don't you think that we are similar is more ways than that, such as our aura and image? By being alike in those ways, it makes me feel good.”

- KBS TV Interview [2016.11.16]

"When I was watching Do Kyungsoo in the movie <Cart>, I enjoyed his performance. Coincidentally, both of our first movies were produced by Myung Films. I feel that his acting is really good. During his appearance as supporting character in drama <I Remember You> to which he was playing a psychotic patient, I again felt that his acting was outstanding since he managed to create an impactful presence. I thought to collaborate if there was such an opportunity." 

"When working together, I feel that he's really smart and learns really fast. I looked up the web drama <Be Positive> that he was in and it was really interesting so I kept on watching. A character that's vibrant yet a little annoying, he played it really well. While acting with me, he presented yet another side of him." 

"I look forward to seeing his future. I got word that many have shared their advice and feedback with Kyungsoo. He's also got a group of close hyungs, to whom some are really good actors. I believe that would also be helpful to him."

- xportsnews [2016.11.17]

“...I had previously thought of Kyungsoo as a good actor, so I thought it would turn out well. When I saw Kyungsoo, it felt like I saw my younger self.”

“(He) Knows how to take care of seniors, polite, gentlemanly and very kind. One can observe these qualities easily. I sort of understand why he has that ‘AlMoKyung’ nickname but am unable to explain it in words. But it's really quite a fatal quality of his.”

“Dooyoung is the younger brother who's righteous, strong and man(ly), yet have an innocent and pure heart that's very much like a crystal ball. When others ask me how's Kyungsoo like, I'll say he's very masculine. I find him a very good match with Dooyoung.”

- Allure Magazine [Dec’16 issue]

“Before our meeting, I was under the impression that he may be a little weak and someone who may be immature, but he was nothing like that in reality. He’s very handsome and especially manly, somewhat the feeling of a strong masculine presence in a man, I was really surprised. Although I believe that the fans already know, but he’s someone who’s very manly despite his baby face. He’s one with that kind of charm.”

- Vogue Japan Online [2017.05.16]

“D.O. is really multi-talented and his focus is really great. Although he may look like a cute maknae, you’ll realise how bright and masculine he really is, after getting to know him better. By being that way, he can make the character of Dooyoung live on strongly.”

"Hmm, actually there’s really only Kyungsoo (laughs). Just recently, I have watched Kyungsoo in his web drama <Be Positive>, and felt that his acting is really good. So when I meet Kyungsoo, I’ll say, ‘you are the best.” That web drama demonstrated Kyungsoo’s personal charm and acting abilities perfectly. I feel particularly pleased for him, that he’s got such a promising future and will continue to anticipate his future performances.”

- Marisol Online [2017.05.19] Related post here.

“To me, he’s a unique one-of-a-kind brother. Despite only knowing each other through the filming of movie <My Annoying Brother>, he’s a kind, polite and a very charismatic younger brother. While filming, I’ve not just fallen in love with actor Do Kyungsoo, but am bought over by him as a person.”

- ETNEWS [2017.06.17] Related post here. 

Kim Woobin (Actor)

“I watch movie <Hyung> recently because of Kyungsoo, our maknae is doing so well once again. (smile) Why is he doing so well from the beginning (of the movie)? I don’t understand.”

- Interview [2016.12.19]

Film <Room No.7> (2017) Kyungsoo plays lead role, Taejung, a 20-something young adult who needed to repay student loans and hence worked as a part-timer at the DVD viewing shop, had to battle against 'Doosik’ (played by Shin Hakyun) in the film. 

Lee Yongseung (Director)

"While on set, I spoke many times and at length with Kyungsoo when  filming. ‘Taejung will do this during this situation,’ or ‘if it’s Taejung, he’ll probably do something else.’ While listening to his analysis and thoughts, I was surprised at how much he has prepared (for the filming/movie).”

- Cine Diary Volume 2 handed our during BiFan 2017 (2017.07.14)  Related post here. 

Owen Cho Wonhee (Director)

@joydvzon: “Please look out for actor Do Kyungsoo - <Room No.7> review”

@joydvzon: “There are 3 acting geniuses in <Room No.7> - film’s frontliner, acting genius Shin Hakyun; up-and-coming star, acting genius Do Kyungsoo; and black horse acting genius Kim Dongyoung. The way Do Kyungsoo show distinction and portrayed between calmness and excitement is extremely scary (implied in an unbelievable positive way), yet also maintain meticulousness in the all areas in between.”

@sarozabda​: “He’s totally an actor right ㅎㅎㅎ"

@joydvzon: “He was already one since film <Cart>…”

- Personal Twitter @joydvzon (2017.07.14)  Related post here.

Film <With God> (2017 & 2018) Kyungsoo will playing supporting role, Private Won Dongyuen. Little details have been revealed of his character in the film. 

Won Dongyuen (Producer)

“Why would I have a negative impression of idols-actors after watching Yim Siwan in movie <Incomplete Life: Prequel> and Do Kyungsoo in movie <Cart>? Ultimately, it is not a matter of whether the character is played by an idol but rather exactly who has been chosen to portray the role in question. Nevertheless, up until yesterday, I did not know who Do Kyungsoo is but after watching the movie <Cart>, I have now become his fan.”

“Being an ahjussi, I can be declared innocent by not knowing Do Kyungsoo, but as a movie producer, I am guilty.”

- Won Dongyuen’s Twitter (@shywdy) [2014.11.04]

“My focus is not on EXO’s D.O. but instead on actor Do Kyungsoo. It’s not a matter of a few days, I have noticed him since movie <Cart> in 2014 and I have been keeping an eye on him over the past 3 years. I have always been astonished and pleasantly surprised with his acting abilities. He’s a good actor.”

- Won Dongyuen’s Twitter (@shywdy) [2016.04.18]

Animation Film <Underdog> (estimated to release Spring/Summer 2018) Kyungsoo voiced over for lead character, Moongchi.

Shim Jaemyung (Producer)

“Prior to the filming of the movie, I met Do Kyungsoo with the Director in the office. He gave a cordial 90-degree deep bow and appeared to be very nervous and even his ears turned red. I could feel his passion and sincerity from this. His acting basics is also better than I have expected.”

- NEWSEN Interview

Oh Sungyoon (Director)

“His voice acting was exceptional. I decided to cast him because I was deeply moved by his acting in the movie <Cart>. I’ve seen his voice acting three times, and he’s so good at it that I see him as an acting genius.”

- <Underdog> Rough-cut Premiere and Stage Greeting during 2017 Seoul International Cartoon and Animation Festival (SICAF) [2017.07.28]

“For actor Do Kyungsoo, I had the thought of ‘I must definitely work with him in the future’ after watching film <Cart> (2014). But after finishing that film, I realise I couldn’t see any other actor besides Do Kyungsoo (laughs).”

- Cine21 Interview [2017.08.14] Related post here.

Film <Swing Kids> (Estimated 2018) Kyungsoo will be playing lead role, Roh Kisoo, a North Korean soldier who’s also a Prisoner-of-War in a refugee camp, that finds himself falling in love with and fighting for tap dance in the chaos of war and survival. 

Kang Hyeongcheol (Director)

“The moment I saw Do Kyungsoo, it seemed as if he’d jumped straight out of the movie’s scenario. I even wondered if his path had taken him here just for this movie to happen.”

“Swing Kids will be a film that features dancing - rare in Korea. [The lead] can’t just be good at acting. His character must seem like a boy teetering on young adult, and he has to dance well too. All that made Do Kyungsoo seem like fate.”

“I wasn’t aware that Do Kyungsoo started as an idol. I wasn’t particularly concerned with how established my lead would be, just that he would best fit the role […] Large budget films need conviction behind careful casting. I haven’t had second thoughts since meeting Do Kyungsoo.”

- Star News [2017.05.10]

Others interviews and mentions

Gong Hyungjin (Actor)

“Take EXO’s Do Kyungsoo as an example, who’s seen a breakthrough in the (acting) genres that he does. I am in awe of idols that can act well and I’d think ‘Ah, I’ll want to become a recognized and widely accepted idol too.’”

- SBS k.star

Im Juhwan (Actor)

“I was hanging out with Kyungsoo recently, he’s got a stage name, so calling him D.O. should also be correct. Initially, as he’s an idol, I am curious how he’s like as a friend. Besides, I’ve heard a lot about him having a huge desire when it comes to acting. Jo Insung hyung is not someone who will comment on hoobaes often, but he’ll keep mentioning him and how this friend of his is not bad, so our gatherings now have a newest addition of a maknae. During such gatherings, ‘acting’ topics take up 75% of our chats, and it’s really nice and sincere. Among us, if anyone were to be participating in an upcoming TV drama or film, the rest of us will support and evaluate…because we will help to evaluate, we believe you can do it well.”

- My Daily Interview

Yang Seongmin (CJ E&M Casting Head)

“Many insiders have expressed interest on Do Kyungsoo. There are only a handful of actors in their 20s that can take up a lead role position and it’s undoubted that he should be included in this list. His fan base is pretty stable and this comes partly from his natural acting. I believe he’s more than qualified and competent to undertake the lead role position. He has also used his acting abilities to breakthrough from viewers’ possible prejudice against singers. He’s also immensely interested in acting so I think he’s more than capable to overcome viewers’ misperception on idol-actors.”

- XSPORTSNEWS

Yoon Sangho (Director)

“If there’s a remake of a Leslie Cheung movie, Do Kyungsoo would make a good fit of his characters.”

- Park Ji Yoon FM Date [2016.02.14]

Yoo Youngjin (S.M. Entertainment’s Producer, Lyricist, Composer and Singer)

“On 19 February, upon the release of collaborative duet ‘Tell Me (What Is Love)’ between Yoo Youngjin and EXO member D.O., the song achieved an all-kill record across major Online Music Sites. “Singer” Yoo Youngjin’s comeback has taken far too long…So why did Yoo Youngjin suddenly decide to return in the capacity of a singer? What more a collaboration with hoobae D.O., an EXO member. Regarding this, SM explained, ‘Yoo Youngjin once mentioned that D.O. reminded him a lot of his singer days and hence planned this project.’”

- XSPORTSNEWS

Miryo (Brown Eyed Girls member)

Brown Eyed Girls’ Miryo has mentioned in one of her interviews that she’ll like to collaborate with Zico, Shinee’s Jonghyun, EXO’s D.O. and Zion.T at least once.

- BNTnews

Doyoung (NCT U member)

“D.O. hyung is my role model, I’m already his fan during my trainee days. He’s good at acting, sings well and also humorous when he speaks.”

- Kim Shinyoung’s Noon Request Line

Jeahyuk Jung (Vogue Korea magazine Editor)

“This year’s best actors include Chun Woohee, Esom, Choi Wooshik, Do Kyungsoo, Dane DeHaan…and Sota Fukushi.”

Min Yongjun (Elle Korea magazine Editor)

“An idol’s power, Do Kyungsoo is doing really well. I’m puzzled; how is it possible that idol these days can act so well?”

So Jaewon (Author, notable book titled ‘Wish’)

“Just like Kyungsoo’s beautiful eyes, his fans’ supports are equally beautiful, it’s very moving…I believe that even if he weren’t a singer, he’ll also still be a cool person as an actor. I’m quite certain that he’s a man with a warm heart.”

Choi Sooin (Child Actress)

“...Although I like EXO, I’ll pick D.O. if I had to choose one member.”

“I watched the movie <Unforgettable> at home. D.O. seems to do everything very well - he sings well, also dances well, and seems very good in acting too.”

- Cine21 [2016.06.17]

Movie Poster Photographer 

“For the many idols that challenged acting, there are many that surpassed expectations and does it well. They are familiar with what to do in front of the camera, in particular Do Kyungsoo, he left a deep impression.”

- Woman Sense [Sep’16 issue]

Yoo Jaesuk (Variety Show Host)

“Kyungsoo was taking care and supporting me from behind. He had noticed and came forward to teach me. I am very thankful for Kyungsoo.”

- Infinity Challenge [2016.09.17]

Reporters Kim & Chung

Chung: D.O., he’s been promoting a lot as an actor with the name Do Kyungsoo, right? I heard that SM doesn’t send people to his interviews often, because he does so well by himself. Apparently he’s like this when he talks [rubbing leg and speaking softly], to the point that it makes you wonder why he's so nervous.

Kim: Also (laughs), female film reporters really like Do Kyungsoo. A reporter can publicize things, so one of my team members went to Hyung’s premiere as one to promote Jo Jungseok. She’d been a fan of him, but she ended up falling for Do Kyungsoo (laughs).

- Kim & Chung Studio [2016.12.29]

Unnamed Film Director (who has never worked with Kyungsoo before)

A film director went to OP’s school to give a lecture and OP asked him what he thought about actdols? Film director mentioned that most of them don't really like actdols? The only recognised actdol is Do Kyungsoo. OP asked what’s Do Kyungsoo like? Film director say he’s very kind and polite, exactly the way we imagine him to be. (Film director also mentioned Im Siwan and T.O.P)

- Fan Account (@baekthelove_) [2017.08.08]

Professional Photographer

“I was at a lecture by a professional photographer and got surprised when I saw Kyungsoo among the idols they had worked with previously. The phoitographer said of those idols, Kyungsoo had the most noteworthy character. At one point on the job, they mentioned wanting to eat Seollein (a portable shake). Kyungsoo actually said he would go pick some up and the photographer had to stop him. 

That was usually the work of the staff and it was the first time the photographer ever had a celebrity offer to personally pick something up for them TTT It happened around the time Kyungsoo started acting? It was for taking a profile picture, but they remember it because he had such a good personality.. Kyungsoo is full of moving anecdotes T”

- Fan Account (@soleil_SH412) [2017.08.12]

Compilation Cr: weibo @都暻秀网络特工组 (for accounts before 2016.04.29) Chi Trans (weibo): weibo @都暻秀吧_DohkyungsooBar, @Only都暻秀_嘟骑吧,  @ValentinesDay, @dada_onlyDO, @你在大街上动没动过心 & @Nacho_都暻秀资源博, twitter @CaramelDO, @hana_korean Eng Trans: twitter @enthralleddd, @fydk-translations

[kiaronna]

Hey beautiful author, may i ask you a question? What do you think of JJ? A lot of different author write different JJ. Are you the one who like to write 'Annoying to everyone JJ' or 'Lowkey aashole but not Bad person JJ' or 'not an aashole but very narcisstic and fun to get bullied 'harmlessly' by others JJ' or simply 'JJ neutral' OR 'I love JJ'? And do you think he's an aashole or not?

Hi, Nonny! Thanks for your interest in my opinion, but whatyou were blissfully unaware of is that I’m an obsessive little perfectionist,so my answer to this question is gonna be long. Personally, I don’t love JJ—I’mkind of indifferent to him. However, I think he’s an excellent, fleshed outrival to Yuuri and an excellent person to compare to Yuuri. I’ll go overthis in three points, which are explained below the cut:

1.     JJ is confident to thelevel of arrogance (note: NOT a narcissist)

2.     One of JJ’s goals is tocompete against and defeat Viktor

3.     JJ is a misunderstood butgood guy, though he’s not that nice

1.     JJ is confident to thelevel of arrogance (note: NOT a narcissist)

This isn’t really hard to see. The man hashis initials tattooed on his back, he calls himself the “king” and skates to anoriginal song about him, and spends a lot of his internal monologue kindof…bragging about himself. Turning our eyes to Yuuri, who thinks he’sdime-a-dozen even after making it the GPF two years in a row and winning the heartof the world’s most eligible bachelor and his idol, we can see the comparisons.

Yuuri is underconfident because he puts alot of internal pressure on himself, keeps setting his personal standardsextremely high—obviously he’s under external pressure, too, but his main enemyis himself. Yuuri’s family doesn’t care if he’s a champion or not, despite whatYuuri may think, and while Japan clearly adores Yuuri, he’s moved to the USAand is notoriously reclusive (though he does read what people say on theinternet). Obviously, feeling like he’s stolen Viktor from the world puts himunder external pressure, but that’s fairly new in his life. On the flip, wehave JJ, whose parents coach him, whose siblings are Juniors skaters that arelikely nipping at his heels, who has a pretty devoted fanbase he interacts alot with—heck, Isabella is one of his fangirls and he’s marrying her—who a bandwrote a whole song about. That’s a lot of long-lasting external pressure todeal with, and I’m going to suggest that a lot of JJ’s arrogance comes from aneed to combat this pressure.

When he brags, JJ isn’t just bragging—he’spumping himself up, because he’s nervous. We all know that his nervesand pressure got to him in the Barcelona GPF, and that wasn’t some isolatedincident. This has to do with an idea I’ve seen from a lot of people: that JJis a narcissist.

JJ isn’t really a narcissist. Narcissiststend to overplay their achievements and consider themselves superior orspecial. They demand admiration, feel entitled to victory, and lack empathy tothe extent that they take advantage of others (DSM-IV criteria). JJ brags a lot, but he actuallyhas earned a lot of his own achievements—this guy was destroying ice skatingcompetitions, okay? He was favored to win the GPF till pressure did him in, andif that hadn’t happened… he probably would have won. All of that takes a lot ofwork—it’s not weird to be somewhat proud of it. JJ claims he’s superior because,by some skating standards, he is. 

Also possibly because if he doesn’tbelieve himself to be superior, invincible, he’ll collapse to nerves andexternal pressure. JJ isn’t a narcissist because he does feelempathy: he wants Isabella to be happy, and fears losing her and the support ofhis parents/country. Finally, JJ definitely isn’t a narcissist because… well…look at his response to losing, or his response to the success of others. Inepisode 8, when Seung-Gil lands a quad loop, JJ doesn’t downplay thisachievement—he claps, and tries to bring it up to the rest of the room (albeit awkwardly,we’ll get into this later). He acknowledges that Yurio wants to beat Viktortoo, and expresses a genuine desire for them to climb podiums together. When JJcrashes and burns at the GPF, he doesn’t fly into a rage over how he’s lost, orfeel he’s been robbed of the medal he’s entitled to: he’s worried he’ll losethe support of the people he loves, and understands that he’s screwed up.Friends, this is a guy who’s intimidated by cinnamon rolls like KatsukiYuuri and Phichit Chulanont—he’s not a narcissist, he’s not only ego-driven, he’sa complex character who behaves like he does for some good reasons.

BAHAHAHA HE GENUINELY THINKS YUURI ORPHICHIT WOULD DO HIM THIS WAY

Basically, JJ is a normal teenage(YES, HE IS A TEENAGER, THIS ALSO PLAYS INTO HIS BEHAVIOR) guy who compensatesfor a lot of external pressure and nerves by talking himself up. I hatewhen JJ gets made out to be a total jerk—he’s not one, and Kubo made him thatway for a good reason.

2.     One of JJ’s goals is tocompete against and defeat Viktor

JJ states that he wants to take Viktor onagain in the GPF and beat him—of course, Viktor takes the season off, so thisdoesn’t happen, but honestly I think this plays a lot into his behavior.

We all felt terribly for Yuuri when hisidol, Viktor Nikiforov, seemed to have no idea who he was. Well guesswhat? JJ has literally been on a podium with Viktor, the man he aspiresto defeat and probably idolizes at least a little… and Viktor doesn’t really knowwho he is, and doesn’t care. Now, Viktor doesn’t have to care, but imagine thatyou’re nineteen and the guy you admire and want to beat won’t give you the timeof day—that’d suck, wouldn’t it? JJ mostly responds to this by trying to getViktor’s attention in any way he can. We’ll walk through one particularinteraction that is going to lead straight into the JJ is misunderstooddiscussion.

In episode 8, JJ approaches Viktor andYuuri to talk about a quadruple loop. Yuuri, as we know, is already nervous andtrying to get in the zone by listening to his headphones. Viktor is supportinghim, and JJ busts in yelling about how accomplished some other skater is—Viktoris annoyed and rebuffs him, mostly because it could make Yuuri panic.

But honestly, JJ’s intent wasn’t to rile upYuuri—it was to snag Viktor’s attention. Look at this:

JJ passes Yuuri right by. If he was tryingto intimidate Yuuri, you’d think he’d talk to him, wouldn’t you? But he goesstraight to Viktor, tries to talk about Viktor’s achievements, and hegets brushed off. LOOK AT HIS AWKWARD LITTLE FACE:

HE IS TRYING SO HARD GUYS. He just wants totalk to skating’s Living Legend, and geez, with his accomplishments, he’searned the right to do so by this point. But Viktor doesn’t want to talk tohim. It’s a little sad that JJ pays no attention to Yuuri, but Yuuri is acompetitor and not the guy JJ wants to surpass, so we’ll let this go.

Yuuri idolizes Viktor, and we all know thatdeep down, he also wants to compete against Viktor and beat him (the Nishigori conversation), though he’shesitant to say it. When he initially interacts with Viktor he is Awkward witha capital A.

I’d like to say that JJ probably alsoadmires Viktor, and has clearly stated that he wants to compete against him andbeat him. When he interacts with Viktor he is Awkward with a capital A. Theparallels go on.

Anyway, this analysis goes straight intothe next section, so onward!

3.     JJ is a misunderstood butgood guy, though he’s not that nice

JJ is not the nicest guy. He calls Yuri feminineand acts like this is meant to be funny, which is honestly the closest to intolerancewe get in this show. He busts into conversations and focuses a lot of attentiononto himself. But you know what? Overall, JJ is a good guy who is nice to hisfans, loving to his girlfriend and parents, and is hardworking.

He annoys the other skaters, but hegenuinely wants to be part of their ‘crowd’—something they deny him. Here heis, about to be rejected by the coolest of the cool, Otabek. Look at how EAGERhe is:

I,at the very least, was startled when he arrived during the restaurant scene,directed the conversation to himself and drove the other skaters away, and hislast words were “I was just joking!!” JJ is AWARE, guys. So when JJ bragsabout himself and says he’ll defeat others he’s… joking?? He’s… trying to laughwith other people, talk about the competition?

Most of the characters, and a lot ofpeople, think JJ is obnoxious and self-centered. JJ is not. JJ is Awkward. Halfof his interactions are please talk to me, please hang out with me, we’recompetitors! Viktor calls him unapproachable, and I think this is mostlybecause JJ’s attempts to interact with the other skaters gets misunderstood ashim being annoying and bragging. In actuality, JJ is just not all that great attalking to other people. We can blame him for this… or, we can understand that,like Yuuri, JJ can be socially awkward and make mistakes. He looks atsituations, like Yuuri trying to get into the zone, and fails to read themproperly and insert himself appropriately into them.

We don’t blame Yuuri for failing tointeract perfectly with people—we just encourage him to get better, and lookforward to his growth. I think we should treat JJ the same way, and hope hegets some humility, social skills, and a less annoying coping mechanism fordealing with pressure.

As a final note… I’m just going to say thatthe parallels between Yuuri and JJ are in no way an accident. Good rivalcharacters tend to be good foils, I think. Honestly, having JJ also be engagedand claiming he’ll get married after the GPF– and the resulting pressure hefaces– is a great example of how the narrative compares JJ to Yuuri, and ups therival tension.

Whew. So that’s what I think of JJ. Again, it’sprobably TMI. I don’t write JJ into a lot of my fanfic, because as I’ve said, Idon’t particularly love him or anything. But I think he’s misunderstood bycharacters in the show and by consumers of the show. Frankly, he’s human and agood rival for Yuuri—I love how Kubo made him sympathetic and real. So that’show I would write him, if I ever did.