#raymond smith aesthetic

[make-me-imagine]

Headcanons: Aesthetics (Raymond Smith)

Headcanons: Aesthetics (Raymond Smith) - What smell(s) are they, what flower are they, what season do I associate with them, do I think they have a favorite aesthetics, songs, etc.'

Requested By: @will-grammer

A/N: Headcanons are below cut. Most of the songs chosen are based on vibes alone. This is also the first time I am attempting this format of headcanons, so it may change in the future. I may also add onto this in the future as I find things that remind me of him.

-

Smells:

Woody scents like walking through a forest after a gentle rain.

An expensive cologne you cant place the specific scent of, but it makes you feel warm and comfortable.

Cinnamon and Wood Smoke

Peppermint scented aftershave and beard oil.

Freshly ground coffee with a hint of cocoa.

The scent of thick parchment paper of an old book.

A smokey burning smell that could be either gunpowder or charcoal.

Flowers/Seasons/Etc:

Raymond is Autumn.

The browns, oranges, reds and gold colors of Autumn.

The leaves changing, falling, and decaying. The full cycle of life.

The crisp cold air that hangs like fog, with rays of sunlight shining through.

He is the evolution of Autumn to Winter than you never see, but feel in your bones.

Walking down a wet paved sidewalk as leaves float down from the trees overhead. Your feet crunching the leaves underfoot.

He is a Biden's Flower. A barbed and bristled plant with a colorful flower hiding it's dangerous parts.

Quotes/Lyrics/Songs:

'aut viam inveniam aut faciam' - I will either find a way, or I will make one.

"Knowledge will give you power. But Character will give you respect."

“If an idiot is in power, never lose the patience. Otherwise you'll be fallen to his level.”

'I Feel Free' by Cream

'I Heard It Through the Grape Vine' by Marvin Gaye

'Bad Moon Rising' by Creedence Clearwater Revival

"Well you think that you know what I am but you don't. 'Cause I say what you can't and I do what you won't." - Halestorm; 'Sick Individual'

"I was told a million times. Of all the troubles in my way. Mind you grow a little wiser. Little better every day." - Queen; 'Keep Yourself Alive'

Other/Misc

Tweed suits and hounds tooth plaid.

The sound of ice clinking in a glass.

A gold, brown, black and copper color palette.

He is the sound of rain hitting the umbrella overhead as you walk.

The distant city at night that somehow lulls you to sleep after a long day.

Dark Academia mixed with Mafia Aesthetic.

Books, a neatly folded coat, perfect handwriting always in the margins, an empty glass, and a gun.

xx

General Taglist: @criminaly-supernatural, @imaginesfire, @witchygagirl, @alexxavicry

Raymond Smith Taglist: @will-grammer, @venusthepirate

[fiery-courage]

Raymond's hands

[thrashkink-coven]

Hi all,

Welcome to the last part of my 2024 altar tour! 4/4

What a year it has been! I have learned so much and made so many new friends! My altar has always been a reflection of my psyche, seeing it’s beauty reminds me of the beauty that exists within me. :)

So this is my final little work space where I do pendulum magick and tarot readings. There is a devotional mug to Lord Lucifer which I use for our morning coffee chats. There is also Lucifer’s devotional dragon statue, as well as the dual scrying mirror for him and Faviel.

There is a normal mirror and a statue of a pharaoh’s tomb. The board which the flowers and offerings are placed on dawns Faviel’s sigil and candle. To Faviel I have offered a palm stone, flowers, an acorn, smoky quartz, some black earrings, and some grubs.

Beside him is my pendulum in a selenite charging bowl along with my pendulum mat.

The black and white image you see was a piece of art I made for Archangel Jophiel after he gifted me a vision a year or so ago. I use it whenever I’m reaching out to him.

Beneath my altar is some space for storage where I keep my larger cauldron, mortar and pestle, larger candles, etc. There is also my stand where I keep my broom, fire poker, and shovel. My witch broom is wrapped in a protective seal. I use it to sweep ash from my prayer mat.

And finally, here are a few of the books I have in my collection that have greatly greatly aided me in my craft. Remember to do your research my dears!

The Arbatel of Magick- First English edition 1633, new edition 2013, edited by Earl Marwick

Healing with Form, Energy, and Light- Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche

Gods and Goddesses- Hallam, Elizabeth

The Lesser Key of Solomon- S.L MacGregor Mathers and Aleister Crowley

The Dictionary of Alchemy- Diana Fernando

The Art of Angels- Howard Loxton

Backland’s Book of Spirit Communications- Raymond Buckland

Transcendental Magick- Éliphas Lévi

The Greater Key of Solomon- S.L MacGregor Mathers

A History of God- Karen Armstrong

A Dictionary of Angels, Including Fallen Angels- Gustav Davidson

Making Talismans- Nick Farrell

The Sixth and Seventh Books of Moses- Johann Scheibel

The Egyptian Book of the Dead

The Rise and Fall of the Nephilim- Scott Alan Roberts

Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft- Raymond Buckland

Candle Burning Rituals- Raymond Buckland

The Complete Book of Black Magick and Witchcraft

Green Witchcraft, Folk Magick, Fairy Lore & Herb Craft- Ann Moura

The Book of Forbidden Knowledge, Black Magick, Superstition, Charms and Divination- First Edition 1910s Johnson Smith & co. New Edition 2016 edited by Earl Marwick

Three Books of Occult Philosophy- Henry Cornelius Agrippa

and of course, The Holy Bible- New Living Translation.

I have many other books in my collection on tarot and astrology in my living room, but these are the books that have had the greatest impact on my craft. Here are a few of those other ones:

Love Potions- Tatania Hardie

The Book of Destinies- Jane Struthers

The Crystal Bible 2- Judy Hall

The Tarot Bible- Sarah Barlett

The Wicca Bible- Ann Marie Gallagher

Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs- Scott Cunningham

Magic and Medicine of Plants- Reader’s Digest

The Power of Birthdays Stars and Numbers- Saffi Crawford and Geraldine Sullivan

The Witches’ Goddess- Janet and Stewart Farrar

The Witches’ God- Janet and Stewart Farrar

•••

I wanted to end this tour off with my reading material because I want to emphasize how important it is to understand that “magick” is not just “stuff”.

I really enjoy all of my magical tools and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with having and wanting pretty things or an aesthetically pleasing altar. In fact I believe aesthetic and care are acts of love in themselves. Don’t ever let someone shame you for wanting to decorate and indulge in the aesthetics of your craft.

But please do remember that our greatest magical tool is our minds, our senses, and our experiences- our brains. Remember to read read read lots of material from many different sources. Contemplate honestly on everything you read, hear and experience. Do not take everything you believe today as a fact, do not box yourself in to anything. (Maybe that’s the Luciferian in me speaking lol)

Learn how to do magick alone, without any tools. My magick is not my stuff, although my stuff greatly aids me in my magick. Does that make sense?

Thank you so much for reading! I look forward to growing and learning so much more this year! :)

Blessed be!

[scottappreciation]

Thank you to everyone that participated in Scott McCall Week 2023!! We received over 40 entries this year and have been so delighted to see the amazing works you’ve created to celebrate Scott. 😁 Below is a round up of all of the contributions—days 3-7 and alt prompts are under the cut! For more Scott-centric works, including ones from previous events, we’d encourage you to check out scottappreciation’s collection of Scott-centric works.

If we’ve missed a post by you, please send us an ask, and we’ll add it.

Thank you again for helping make this event so successful, and we look forward to hosting more events in the future!

Day One - You’re an Omega / Traits

s1/2 moodboard and fic by @jjsstars

scott in s2 + soap fanvid by @bericas

what beautiful eyes you have fanart by @toastybugguy

an alpha of your own pack gifset by @momentofmemory

traits graphic by @seemebaremyteethforyou

s2 fic by @kitkatwinchester

scott + traits gifset by @letthestorieslive

Day Two - That’s All I Got / Quotes & Lyrics

scott & parental figures moodboard and fic by @jjsstars 

sciles fanart by @slumop 

ocean vuong gifset by @bericas 

battle born gifset by @seemebaremyteethforyou

inheritance gifset by @momentofmemory

you’re not a monster fanart by @toastybugguy

think of everything you’ve got fic by @smile667

Day Three - I’m Not Ready to Die Yet / Fight Scene or Romance Scene

fight scene graphic by @seemebaremyteethforyou

healing/processing moodboard and fic by @jjsstars

brothers, bitch! fanart by @toastybugguy

it’s just something i traced with my fingers graphic by @scribeoffate

miriam kramer gifset by @bericas

Day Four - The Shape You Take / Relationships

once i had a child fanart by @toastybugguy

identity moodboard and fic by @jjsstars

scott + hayden graphic by @seemebaremyteethforyou

Day Five - I’m Going to Tell You a Story / Aesthetics & Colors

scott + colors gifset by @letthestorieslive

that fearful sound of fire fanart by @slumop

that’s what he wants fanvid by @momentofmemory

scira canon divergence moodboard and fic by @jjsstars

haunting memories fanart by @toastybugguy

s2 scackson canon divergence fanvid by @domesticated-feral

Day Six - Trust Me, I Restrained Myself / Close-ups

e.d. smith gifset by @momentofmemory

the colors in your eyes captivate my mind fanart by @slumop

rage moodboard and fic by @jjsstars

pantone colors + closeups graphic by @seemebaremyteethforyou

rubble and dust fic by @princeescaluswords

Day Seven - Dealer’s choice

conversations with a future veterinarian shitposts by @spikeface

you stopped to bake it in a little werewolf oven fanart by @nacreousgore

scackson brokeback mountain au fanvid by @domesticated-feral

after hours sceo fic by @wolfboy88

raymond carver gifset by @momentofmemory

talking to allison moodboard and fic by @jjsstars

language of flowers graphic by @seemebaremyteethforyou

lay your gun down sceo fic by @shinigamimailjeevas

scott week pride month fanart by @toastybugguy

Alt 2: Lil Shit Scott

scott + (◡‿◡✿) (ʘ‿ʘ✿) (ʘ‿ʘ)／✿  gifset by @momentofmemory

[theesirenteller]

ATTENTION!! I HAVE FOUND THE MOST RAYMOND SMITH TYPE OF AESTHETIC BLAZER!! I CAN NOT WAIT TO PURCHASE IT

[thecryptkeeper]

The History of Video Art 

readings listed below:

A History of Video Art (2nd Edition) - Chris Meigh-Andrews

Television: Technology and Cultural Form - Raymond Williams

Video: The Distinctive Features Of The Medium - David Antin

Video: From Technology to Medium - Yvonne Spielmann

Video: The Aesthetics of Narcissism - Rosalind Krauss

The Autobiography of Video: Outline for a Revisionist Account of Early Video Art - Ina Blom

Performance, Video, and the Rhetoric of Presence - Anne M. Wagner

The Evolution of Film Language - André Bazin

Image after Image: The Video Art of Bill Viola - Chris Keith

Video Haptics and Erotics - Laura U. Marks

The Temporalities of Video: Extendedness Revisited - Christine Ross

Video/Media Culture of the Late Twentieth Century - John G. Hanhardt and Maria Christina Villaseñor

Analog Circuit Palettes, Cathode Ray Canvases: Digital’s Analog, Experimental Past - Gregory Zinman

The Unifications of the Senses: Intermediality in Video Art-Music - Holly Rogers

The Modernist Event - Hayden White

Ken Jacobs: Digital Revelationist - Malcolm Turvey

Reverse Shot (Dialogues with Sky Hopinka, Tiffany Sia and Emma Wolukau-Waanambwa) - Emily Watlington

From Nostalgia to Anachrnoy: Omer Fast, Michael Robinson, and Home Video Appropriation - James Hansen

Gillian Wearing, Private I - Nancy Princenthal

Like Life (Review of Cao Fei) - Eleanor Heartney

John Smith: Everyday Disruptions - Mark Prince

Ulysses Jenkins: A Griot for the Electronic Age - Paul Von Blum

From Narcissism to the Dialogic: Identity in Art after the Internet - Melissa Gronlund

The Skin of the Film: Intercultural Cinema, Embodiment, and the Senses - Laura U. Marks  

[clementinecompendium]

To Be Read July 2023

The Mind

The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity―and Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race by Daniel Z. Lieberman & Michael E. Long

The Brain: A Very Short Introduction by Michael O'Shea

Consciousness: A Very Short Introduction by Susan Blackmore

The Mind-Gut Connection: How the Hidden Conversation Within Our Bodies Impacts Our Mood, Our Choices, and Our Overall Health by Emeran Mayer MD

Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion by Jia Tolentino

Sensitive is the New Strong: The Power of Empaths in an Increasingly Harsh World by Anita Moorjani

The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron

Laziness Does Not Exist by Devon Price Ph.D.

Wired to Create: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Creative Mind by Scott Barry Kaufman & Carolyn Gregoire

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel A. van der Kolk

Music & The Mind (Art Philosophy, Aesthetics, Neuroaesthetics)

Saved by a Song: The Art and Healing Power of Songwriting by Mary Gauthier

The Song Machine: Inside the Hit Factory by John Seabrook

This is What it Sounds Like: What the Music You Love Says About You by Ogi Ogas & Susan Rogers

Why You Like It: The Science and Culture of Musical Taste by Nolan Gasser

The Story of Music: From Babylon to the Beatles: How Music Has Shaped Civilization by Howard Goodall

Of Sound Mind: How Our Brain Constructs a Meaningful Sonic World by Nina Kraus

Aesthetics: A Very Short Introduction by Bence Nanay

Equipment for Living: On Poetry and Pop Music by Michael Robbins

How Music Works by David Byrne

General Non-Fiction / History / Science

The Russian Revolution: A Very Short Introduction by S. A. Smith

The French Revolution: A Very Short Introduction by William Doyle

Linguistics: A Very Short Introduction by P. H. Matthews

Mathematics: A Very Short Introduction by Timothy Gowers

After the End of Art: Contemporary Art and the Pale of History by Arthur C. Danto

Flappers by Judith Mackrell

Marketing for Dummies, 6th edition by Jeanette McMurty MBA

Sinatra: The Chairman by James Kaplan

Get Happy: The Life of Judy Garland by Gerald Clarke

Self-Improvement

Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr. Kristin Neff

Self Compassion for Dummies by by Steven Hickman PsyD (in progress)

The Nice Girl Syndrome: Stop Being Manipulated and Abused -- and Start Standing Up for Yourself by Beverly Engel

The Assertiveness Guide for Women: How to Communicate Your Needs, Set Healthy Boundaries & Transform Your Relationships by Julie de Azevedo Hanks, PhD, LCSW

Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When it Matters Most by Adam Alter

Fierce Self-Compassion: How Women Can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive by Kristin Neff PhD

The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander

Be Angry: The Dalai Lama on What Matters Most by His Holiness the Dalai Lama,

Anger: The Conflicted History of an Emotion by Barbara H. Rosenwein

The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again by Catherine Price

In Awe: Rediscover Your Childlike Wonder to Unleash Inspiration, Meaning, and Joy by John O'Leary

Creating a Life That Matters: How to Live and Love with Meaning and Purpose by Manis Friedman & Rivka Goldstein 

Fiction

Babel by R. F. Kuang

The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

A Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne (narrated by Tim Curry)

In/Spectre #2

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt (in progress)

The Poisoner's Handbook ed. Raymond T. Bond

[dan6085]

### Top 24 Most Successful Male Singers from 2000 Onwards

#### 1. **Eminem**

**Genre:** Hip-Hop/Rap

**Key Albums:** *The Marshall Mathers LP*, *The Eminem Show*, *Recovery*

**Achievements:** Eminem, known as the "Rap God," has sold over 220 million records worldwide. He has won 15 Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song ("Lose Yourself"). His rapid-fire lyrical delivery and controversial themes have made him a defining figure in modern rap.

#### 2. **Justin Timberlake**

**Genre:** Pop/R&B

**Key Albums:** *Justified*, *FutureSex/LoveSounds*, *The 20/20 Experience*

**Achievements:** Timberlake transitioned from being a member of NSYNC to a successful solo career. He has won 10 Grammy Awards and sold over 88 million records. His blend of pop, R&B, and soul has earned him critical and commercial success.

#### 3. **Bruno Mars**

**Genre:** Pop/R&B/Funk

**Key Albums:** *Doo-Wops & Hooligans*, *Unorthodox Jukebox*, *24K Magic*

**Achievements:** Bruno Mars has sold over 130 million records worldwide and won 11 Grammy Awards. His retro style, infectious melodies, and dynamic performances have made him a global superstar.

#### 4. **Ed Sheeran**

**Genre:** Pop/Folk

**Key Albums:** *+ (Plus)*, *x (Multiply)*, *÷ (Divide)*

**Achievements:** Ed Sheeran is known for his heartfelt lyrics and acoustic sound. He has sold over 150 million records and won 4 Grammy Awards. Sheeran's hit "Shape of You" is one of the best-selling digital singles of all time.

#### 5. **Drake**

**Genre:** Hip-Hop/Rap/R&B

**Key Albums:** *Take Care*, *Nothing Was the Same*, *Scorpion*

**Achievements:** Drake has broken numerous chart records, including the most top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. He has sold over 170 million records worldwide and won 4 Grammy Awards. His influence spans music, fashion, and pop culture.

#### 6. **Jay-Z**

**Genre:** Hip-Hop/Rap

**Key Albums:** *The Blueprint*, *The Black Album*, *4:44*

**Achievements:** Jay-Z is one of the most influential figures in hip-hop, with 22 Grammy Awards and over 125 million records sold. He is also a successful entrepreneur, with ventures in fashion, sports, and streaming services.

#### 7. **Justin Bieber**

**Genre:** Pop/R&B

**Key Albums:** *Believe*, *Purpose*, *Changes*

**Achievements:** Bieber rose to fame as a teen idol and has since matured into a global pop star. He has sold over 150 million records and won 2 Grammy Awards. His evolution in music style has kept him relevant in the ever-changing pop landscape.

#### 8. **Kanye West**

**Genre:** Hip-Hop/Rap

**Key Albums:** *The College Dropout*, *My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy*, *Yeezus*

**Achievements:** Kanye West is known for his innovative production and controversial persona. He has won 24 Grammy Awards and sold over 140 million records. His influence extends beyond music to fashion and design.

#### 9. **The Weeknd**

**Genre:** R&B/Pop

**Key Albums:** *Beauty Behind the Madness*, *Starboy*, *After Hours*

**Achievements:** The Weeknd, known for his unique voice and dark aesthetic, has sold over 75 million records and won 4 Grammy Awards. His hit "Blinding Lights" set a record for the most weeks spent in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.

#### 10. **Usher**

**Genre:** R&B/Pop

**Key Albums:** *Confessions*, *Here I Stand*, *Raymond v. Raymond*

**Achievements:** Usher has sold over 100 million records and won 8 Grammy Awards. His album *Confessions* is one of the best-selling R&B albums of all time. Usher's smooth vocals and dance moves have solidified his place in music history.

#### 11. **Kendrick Lamar**

**Genre:** Hip-Hop/Rap

**Key Albums:** *good kid, m.A.A.d city*, *To Pimp a Butterfly*, *DAMN.*

**Achievements:** Kendrick Lamar is praised for his storytelling and lyricism. He has won 13 Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Music. Lamar's work addresses social issues and has had a profound impact on the hip-hop genre.

#### 12. **Sam Smith**

**Genre:** Pop/Soul

**Key Albums:** *In the Lonely Hour*, *The Thrill of It All*, *Love Goes*

**Achievements:** Sam Smith has sold over 30 million albums and won 4 Grammy Awards. Their powerful voice and emotive songs have earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

#### 13. **Post Malone**

**Genre:** Hip-Hop/Rap/Rock

**Key Albums:** *Stoney*, *Beerbongs & Bentleys*, *Hollywood's Bleeding*

**Achievements:** Post Malone has quickly risen to fame with his genre-blending sound. He has sold over 80 million records and won 10 Billboard Music Awards. His hits like "Rockstar" and "Circles" dominate streaming platforms.

#### 14. **Adam Levine (Maroon 5)**

**Genre:** Pop/Rock

**Key Albums:** *Songs About Jane*, *It Won't Be Soon Before Long*, *V*

**Achievements:** As the lead singer of Maroon 5, Adam Levine has sold over 120 million records and won 3 Grammy Awards. The band's catchy pop-rock tunes have kept them at the top of the charts for two decades.

#### 15. **Jason Derulo**

**Genre:** Pop/R&B

**Key Albums:** *Jason Derulo*, *Talk Dirty*, *Everything Is 4*

**Achievements:** Jason Derulo has sold over 30 million singles and achieved 11 platinum singles. Known for his dance moves and catchy hooks, Derulo has consistently produced hits since his debut.

#### 16. **Harry Styles**

**Genre:** Pop/Rock

**Key Albums:** *Harry Styles*, *Fine Line*, *Harry's House*

**Achievements:** Since his departure from One Direction, Harry Styles has embarked on a successful solo career. He has sold over 10 million albums and won a Grammy Award. Styles' blend of pop and rock, along with his unique fashion sense, has garnered him a devoted following.

#### 17. **Shawn Mendes**

**Genre:** Pop

**Key Albums:** *Handwritten*, *Illuminate*, *Shawn Mendes*

**Achievements:** Shawn Mendes has achieved global success with his soulful voice and catchy melodies. He has sold over 20 million albums and received numerous awards, including multiple American Music Awards.

#### 18. **John Legend**

**Genre:** R&B/Soul

**Key Albums:** *Get Lifted*, *Once Again*, *Love in the Future*

**Achievements:** John Legend is known for his smooth vocals and poignant songwriting. He has won 12 Grammy Awards and sold over 10 million albums. Legend's hit "All of Me" is one of the best-selling digital singles of all time.

#### 19. **Michael Bublé**

**Genre:** Jazz/Pop

**Key Albums:** *It's Time*, *Call Me Irresponsible*, *Crazy Love*

**Achievements:** Michael Bublé has revitalized the jazz and traditional pop standards for modern audiences. He has won 4 Grammy Awards and sold over 60 million albums worldwide.

#### 20. **Chris Brown**

**Genre:** R&B/Hip-Hop

**Key Albums:** *Exclusive*, *F.A.M.E.*, *Indigo*

**Achievements:** Chris Brown has sold over 140 million records and won a Grammy Award. Known for his impressive dance skills and consistent chart-topping hits, Brown has had a significant impact on the R&B and hip-hop scenes.

#### 21. **Pitbull**

**Genre:** Hip-Hop/Pop

**Key Albums:** *Planet Pit*, *Global Warming*, *Dale*

**Achievements:** Pitbull, also known as "Mr. Worldwide," has sold over 100 million records and won a Grammy Award. His energetic performances and party anthems have made him a global sensation.

#### 22. **Akon**

**Genre:** R&B/Hip-Hop

**Key Albums:** *Trouble*, *Konvicted*, *Freedom*

**Achievements:** Akon has sold over 35 million albums and received numerous awards, including 5 Grammy nominations. Known for his distinctive voice and catchy hooks, Akon has been a prominent figure in R&B and hip-hop.

#### 23. **Enrique Iglesias**

**Genre:** Pop/Latin

**Key Albums:** *Escape*, *Insomniac*, *Euphoria*

**Achievements:** Enrique Iglesias has sold over 180 million records and won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award. His crossover appeal and bilingual hits have made him one of the best-selling Latin artists of all time.

#### 24. **David Guetta**

**Genre:** EDM/House

**Key Albums:** *One Love*, *Nothing but the Beat*, *7*

**Achievements:** David Guetta has sold over 50 million records and won 2 Grammy Awards. As a DJ and producer, Guetta has played a crucial role in popularizing electronic dance music (EDM) worldwide.

[denimbex1986]

Sometimes a birthday present doesn’t quite suit. In the early 1990s I bought a copy of Ripley Under Water by Patricia Highsmith for my mum. But it didn’t take.

“You have it dear,” she said after starting it, then abandoning it. “It’s not really my cup of tea.”

It’s a lovely hardback with an image of something tied in a bag under water on the cover. A body.

It was my induction into the world of Tom Ripley, Highsmith’s amoral but fascinating protagonist. I was immediately hooked and have since read quite a bit by Highsmith, including all her Ripley books.

The new Netflix series Ripley should inspire us all to read more Highsmith. Her novels are all quirky, dark and compelling and her short stories are simply delicious. More than a decade ago I received a book for review – Nothing That Meets The Eye: The Uncollected Stories by Patricia Highsmith.

This is a great introduction to her oeuvre. It’s a big book and I would treat myself to a story each night. There are all the twists of Roald Dahl and the ease of Somerset Maugham in her style.

Her first novel, Strangers on a Train, is a classic and it spawned an equally classic 1951 film, produced and directed by none other than the great Alfred Hitchcock, the perfect man for the job. The screenplay was by Raymond Chandler and Czenzi Ormonde and it starred Farley Granger, Ruth Roman and Robert Walker.

More cinematic treasure was to be found in her Ripley books. The five novels in which he appears – The Talented Mr. Ripley, Ripley Under Ground, Ripley’s Game, The Boy Who Followed Ripley and Ripley Under Water (the book my mum rejected) were published between 1955 and 1991.

The protagonist, Tom Ripley, is a career criminal, con artist and serial killer who always gets away with his crimes. In every novel, he comes perilously close to getting caught or killed, but ultimately escapes danger.

Is it wrong to say that I love Ripley? Some years ago, I even wrote a kind of Ripley story myself and set it in the Brisbane suburb of Wilston, of all places, which is where we lived at the time.

It’s called Incident in Wilston and involves a criminal living in Wilston who has to dispose of a body. It appeared in the 2014 anthology Black Beacon’s Subtropical Suspense edited by Cameron Trost.

It’s a tribute to Ripley and that is rather obvious. I call my lead character Tom Ridley as a nod to Ripley.

We recently watched the new Netflix series Ripley, based on Highsmith’s first Ripley book, and it is just so good. Steven Zaillian’s eight-episode series is, according to The Guardian’s film critic Peter Bradshaw: “sumptuous and instantly addictive”.

“Starring the incomparable Andrew Scott as the charmer aesthete and serial killer … it’s a seven-star luxury hotel of a TV show in arthouse black and white,” wrote Bradshaw.

I couldn’t agree more. It’s a slow burn, excruciating at times. And if you know the story it’s even more excruciating because you know what’s coming and it’s never good.

The Italian settings are magnificent and it’s a feast for any Highsmith fan. I hope there may be a follow up because Zaillian has only really scratched the surface.

Highsmith’s first three Ripley novels have been adapted into films. The Talented Mr. Ripley was filmed as Purple Noon (Plein Soleil) in 1960, starring Alain Delon as Ripley, and under the original title in 1999 starring Matt Damon, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow and Cate Blanchett. That film was masterfully directed by Anthony Minghella.

Ripley Under Ground was adapted into a 2005 film, starring Barry Pepper. Ripley’s Game was filmed in 1977 as The American Friend starring Dennis Hopper and under its original title in 2002, starring John Malkovich, who is wonderfully creepy. That’s a cracker and it also stars one of my favourite actors, Dougray Scott.

The Australian playwright Joanna Murray Smith’s play Switzerland, a Sydney Theatre Company production that came to Queensland Theatre in 2016, was a fascinating window into the world of Patricia Highsmith. (It’s called Switzerland because this is where the American author spent the last 14 years of her life.)

Queensland actor Andrea Moore starred as the author and she was perfect in the role. In the play Ripley comes to life and visits Highsmith, planning to kill her. It was delicious stuff and, frankly, deserves a revival, particularly now that a whole new generation is switching on to Ripley, a character we shouldn’t really like. But we do.

Film critic Sam Jordison wrote, again in The Guardian, that “”it is near impossible, I would say, not to root for Tom Ripley. Not to like him. Not, on some level, to want him to win. Patricia Highsmith does a fine job of ensuring he wheedles his way into our sympathies”.

In the Netflix series Andrew Scott’s portrayal of Ripley is utterly brilliant. As critic Peter Bradshaw says, Zaillian’s adaptation give us “much more of Ripley’s essential loneliness and miserable vulnerability”.

That allows us to empathise with him and to want him to succeed, as wrong as that is. And he does succeed.

If you are just starting out on your Ripley journey and haven’t read the novels yet, you have a treat in store.

But there is so much more to Highsmith. Her books are mostly still in print, so dive into the murky waters of her world. But be careful, because you never know what lurks beneath.'

[jihanesroom]

Digipack Planning

After compiling my inspirations, I looked towards the intricacies of their designs to discern what aesthetic choices I would follow. The main album I used for design inspiration would be Goo (Sonic Youth, 1990) and Twin Fantasy (Car Seat Headrest, 2018). Both these album designs can be summarised in their simplicity, monochrome palette and handmade, authentic style.

Goo - Sonic Youth

Designed by punk artist Raymond Pettibon, 'Goo' pulls from his characteristic use of icons from popular culture. The illustration is an interpretation of a photograph of Maureen Hindley and David Smith, witnesses to the Moors Murders. This image paired with the text is intentionally provocative to those aware, however is niche enough to fly over the heads of many. There is a distinct crudeness to the both the illustration and typography, with messy, unrefined line work and unmapped type layouts, suggesting the image was created straight on the paper without prior planning. Pettibon made the image on computer paper with black ink, which may me a medium I utilise in the creation of my digipak.

Twin Fantasy - Car Seat Headrest

The album art work for 'Twin Fantasy' is sleek and simplistic, depicting two intertwining dogs. The illustration is actually a piece of concept artwork, intended to serve as a basis for a commission for the proper album artwork. However, the drawings simplicity was viewed as charming by the artist, and posited to the band to keep the drawing. Like 'Goo', it was created with ink on paper.

As such, I decided to look more into Raymond Pettibon's work with other artist's album covers.

Cracks In The Sidewalk - Various artists, 1980

Six Pack - Black Flag (1981)

Both are more refined than Pettibon's work on 'Goo', with cleaner and more detailed line work as well as featuring vector fonts. Looking into his other work gave me a wider breath of visual stimulation and more ideas as to how to go about making my digipack.

[torchsdummies]

THIS WILL PROBABLY BE EDITED BUT INTROS

(R) Agent R, 3rd member of the PotP council.

(I) Agent Ivory, highly trained sniper. Also a skeleton

(S) Agent Smith, generic name ass, had 6 arms, currently zombie guy

(WB) Willard Baker, Southern narcissistic daywalker vampire

(RF) Raymond Fritz, gay trans trauma baby, dating Mark O'Reilly

(MO) Mark O'Reilly, gay trauma baby, dating Raymond Fritz

(FA) Fancy Alexander, horribly deformed murderous fancy dude

(V) VOLTZ, damaged android guy. Addicted to robo-crack and loves explosives

(SP) SP1RAL, four-armed android with two swords and an eyepatch (for the ~aesthetic~)

(H) Harry, hipster android, historian, dumbass

(DB) droneboy, android with a drone as his head

(MK) MK, prototype android, grumpy old man

(S68) S-68, previously murder machine, now merciful machine! Still has all the murder stuff though

(A) Ashdown, leader of the post-apocalyptic camp, The Lab Boys

(P) President Richter, leader of the post-apocalyptic camp, the Republic of the New Normal, also a fascist

(RK) RAT KING, leader of the post-apocalyptic camp, the RATZ

(C) Captain Scorchskin, leader of the post-apocalyptic camp, the Hellraisers

[no letters] literally just me

More may come!!!!!

[tortugahoe]

🥃Charlie Hunnam as Daniel Solomons.🥃

Younger brother of Alfie Solomons. Educated,well mannered. Slightly more easy going than his brother. Anger management issues - rarely looses control but when he does…it’s very bloody…and he enjoys it. Weaknesses - Family, books, cigarettes

[utakanalight]

❝ enter our protagonist. he’s good looking. he’s gorgeous. he’s golden age. his name is Mickey Pearson. unique background has our Mickey. so he’s born clever, but poor. he’s a bad boy. he starts dealing the dirty wonder weed to his rich, British, upper-class uni pals, and realizes he’s rather good at it ❞

[deathbecomesnerds]

“The Missing Gentleman” | Chapter One

After Raymond Smith goes missing, Charlie Waldo is called to the case and flown to England by a mysterious Michael Pearson who is desperate to find his friend/consigliere. But things aren’t all what they appear to be.

A/N: The Gentlemen/Last Looks crossover

((GIF BY @boydswan​))

It was a dark and stormy night in London, even the cab driver was having trouble seeing through the window when he finally pulled up to the brick manor and sighed with relief to know his chaotic ride was over. He paid the man and couldn’t help but feel sorry for him as he drove off.

Charlie Waldo adjusted his hat as he stood on the porch, glancing around to observe his surroundings and noted to himself that this seemed like every noir detective movie he had ever seen as a kid growing up. He turned to face the door and rang the doorbell, waiting patiently for someone to answer it. 

The door opened almost immediately, and there stood in front of him, a broad, tan man who was sharply dressed and had a welcoming smile.

“Detective Waldo?” he asked.

“Just Waldo is fine…” Charlie responded. 

The man nodded, inviting him in which Charlie immediately walked into. The house was warm, and the foyer was painted Tiffany’s Blue with minimal furniture, off in the distance music could be heard playing and Charlie couldn’t help but be slightly impressed. 

The man shook Charlie’s hand after he closed the door “I’m Michael Pearson, but you can call me Mickey.” he introduced himself. 

Charlie smiled as he shook his hand, “Charlie Waldo.” 

“Yes, yes. You were highly recommended by my contacts in the states.” Mickey said, his southern twang becoming obvious the more he spoke.

Charlie nodded, “I understand that this is a missing persons case?”

Mickey nodded as he escorted Charlie further into the house “Yes, my friend is missing, and I would like an extra set of eyes on the case.” 

The two men walked into the living room area where a tall, thin, brunette woman sat on the couch with a glass of scotch in her hand. She looked at Charlie and her frown immediately worsened as her brow furrowed.

“This is the detective your friends recommended?” she hissed.

Charlie didn’t take it personally, his grungy appearance wasn’t for the faint of heart, and after he grew out his beard again, he looked as though he could pass as a homeless person in Los Angeles. 

Mickey frowned at her, “This is my wife, Rosalind. Honey, this is Charlie Waldo. He came all the way from L.A to help us.” he retorted.

Ros hummed, standing up to extend her hand out which Charlie shook before glancing around the elegantly styled room. The aesthetic did not appear to align with the couple that he had just met, he cleared his throat while continuing to examine the room before his eyes fell upon a wedding photo of a couple that was not Mickey nor his wife.

“Is this your home?” Charlie asked.

Mickey shook his head while he put his hands in his pockets “No, this is our friend's house. His wife is upstairs, and we refuse to let her be here alone.” 

“And where is she?” Charlie turned to look at Mickey.

“She’s retreated to her bedroom. She honestly hasn’t left her bed since Ray went missing. The poor girl is absolutely broken.” Ros chimed in, Charlie could see the obvious pain in Ros’s eyes as she spoke of their friend's wife. 

Charlie took another gander of the living room and open dining room. He saw children’s toys lying in a pile by the fireplace and he glanced back at Mickey and Rosalind “Are there children in the house?” he asked.

“Usually. Yes. But since Astrid hasn’t gotten out of bed in nearly two weeks, we had Astrid’s father take their son, Enniss.” Rosalind explained while Charlie looked around the room to see various pictures of the family. At first glance, they seemed happy, well adjusted…Charlie was almost envious of them before he looked back at the couple.

“Astrid?” Charlie verified.

Mickey nodded “Yes, Astrid Smith. Her husband is Raymond…we can try to get her out of bed, I know she at least needs to shower and eat.” he said.

Charlie smiled softly, “I don’t want you guys to push her.” 

“Will you take the case at least?” Mickey asked, “It would seem rather redundant for you to come all the way here just to tell us ‘no’.” 

Charlie smirked at Mickey, “I’ve done far pettier things just to say ‘no’.” he claimed. 

Mickey let a smile out, taking his hands out of his pockets as he approached Charlie, “Mr. Waldo, I miss my friend. And the police, they barely looked into it before determining that he ‘ran away’, and I don’t accept that answer. Please help us. Me. Astrid.”

Charlie nodded, “I’ll do all I can to help,” he assured Mickey.

“Wonderful!” Mickey’s smile grew brighter, “I’m sure you’re exhausted from the trip, I can have one of my guys take you to your hotel.” 

Charlie just stood in place with a smile while Mickey called out for ‘Bunny’, and Charlie did not expect the brute that approached him with a friendly smile and extended his hand towards the foyer where Charlie nodded politely, bid adieu to Mickey and Rosalind, and left with Bunny in tow. 

The hotel suite was swanky, Mickey had insisted that he pay since Charlie had covered the rather expensive plane ride, and this trip was indefinite. Lorena is gonna kill me. Charlie thought as he laid in the comfiest bed he had ever laid on while nonchalantly snuggling with a pillow as he went through the case file that Mickey managed to get for him.

The disappearance of Raymond [Redacted] aka Smith seemed like an open and shut case on the surface, but Charlie felt that there was something more to it all as he looked at the photos of Ray’s 2018 Jeep Wrangler that was found deserted on the side of a country road a week ago. Unfortunately, the fatigue that was plaguing his body was proving too much for him as he put the file on his night table and kicked his shoes off to get even more comfortable in bed. 

Charlie Waldo tucked himself into bed and turned off the lamp next to him and laid in the dark while the storm outside raged on. He thought about everything that guided him to that exact moment before he realized: I’m too tired to give a shit right now. 

[make-me-imagine]

Main Masterlist

((Last Updated: August 2nd, 2024))

(Fandoms List)

Discontinued Fandoms Masterlist*All the links for fandoms I no longer write for (NCIS, Spn, Teen Wolf +More)

- - - - -

Masterlist Order: 

• Separate Masterlist Links for Shows and Movies

• General Masterlist; individual links for movies and shows (That don’t have their own/separate masterlists)

• Holiday/Event Masterlists

• Other (Scenario Games, UQuizzes, Soulmate AU Series, etc)

• Guest Writers (Submitted Works)

- - - - -

**If you notice any missing or incorrect links, please let me know!!

((About Me - Tag with questions, tags, and info about me)

- - - - - - - - - 

- - - - Separate Masterlists - - - -

**Shows ‘#-Z’**

Bridgerton

9-1-1 (Fox)

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Leverage

Magnificent Seven (1998-2000)

The Mandalorian

M*A*S*H

Merlin (BBC)  

The Originals

Prodigal Son

Sherlock (BBC)

Star Trek

*Ent, DS9, & Voy

Stargate (SG1 and SGA)

*Strange New Worlds and Discovery

The Vampire Diaries

Star Trek 2

- - - MCU Masterlists - - -

Main/Original Avengers

*Steve, Tony, Clint, Natasha and Bruce

Other Avengers/Marvel Characters

*Bucky, Sam, Wanda, Peter Parker, Zemo, +more.

Thor Franchise

*Thor, Loki, Heimdall, +more

X-men

*Original and Alternate Timeline Characters

Venom and Deadpool

*Shang-Chi & Xialing

*Other movies might be added later

Shang-Chi

- - - Other Movies/Franchises - - -

- - - - - - - -

- - -

Star Trek (AOS)

- - -

Star Wars Universe

*All Movies + The Mandalorian

- - -

Top Gun

*1986 & 2022

- - -

Jane Austen Adaptations

*Pride and Prejudice; Emma; Persuasion +more

- - - 

Kingsman

- - -

Magnificent Seven (2016)

- - -

Pirates of the Caribbean

- - - 

The Outsiders (1983)

- - - - -

The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings

(Individual Links for other shows & movies)

Bloodhounds (KDrama)

General Masterlist:

Confession + Relationship Headcanons (fluff/cute/romance)

Geon-woo x Gn!Reader; Woo-jin x Gn!Reader + Geon-woo x Reader x Woojin

- - - - - 

Geon-Woo x Gn!Reader & Woojin x Gn!Reader

Fic; 'Something Better, Something New' (cute/angst/gen)

Geon-woo x Gn!Reader x Woojin

Elementary (CBS)

Jealousy Headcanons (cute/jealousy)

Sherlock Holmes x GN!Reader: 

‘The Gift of Feeling’ (Christmas; cute/gen)

‘Feelings to Embrace’ (angst/fluff)

- - 

Enola Holmes (1&2)

Sherlock Holmes x Gn!Reader: 

‘Hold My Hand’; (tension/fluff)

‘Cheers To Us’; (fluff/romance/valentines fic)

Part Two: ‘A New Years Kiss’ (romantic/fluff)

- - 

Part One: ‘A Christmas Rose’ (cute/mild Christmas)

Firefly 

Jayne Cobb 

Gif Imagine: ‘Being Jaynes sibling and the complete opposite’ 

Oneshot: “I’m offended you didn’t ask me to be your fake date”

- -

Gif Imagine: ‘Being Mal’s sister and part of the crew’ 

Gif Imagine: ‘Saving the crew/Mal asks you to join’ 

The Gentlemen

Malcolm Reynolds

Raymond Smith: 

Fics/Oneshots: 

‘Bounty’s and First Meetings’; (gen/cute)

‘Exactly My Type’ (fluff/romance/Valentines Day)

Headcanons: Aesthetics (Raymond Smith)

- - 

Lark Rise to Candleford

Fic: Alfie Arless x Reader; ‘Oblivious’; (angst/fluff)

- - 

One Piece (Live Action)

Fic: ‘Something Better’; Zoro x Gn!Reader (fluff; slow-burn)

Headcanons + One Shot; Zoro + Crush (cute/fluff)

Headcanons: Spending Valentines Day Together (fluff/cute) **Zoro; Sanji; Luffy; Nami; Usopp; Mihawk; Buggy & Shanks x Gn!Reader (all separate) 

- - -

Person of Interest

Fic: John Reese x GN!Reader; ‘Second Chances’; (action/angst/suggested romance ending)

- - -

Shadow and Bone

Ship Drabble: Inej Ghafa x Reader ‘Jealousy’

‘Camera Roll while hiking with Tolya’

Nikolai Lanstov x Reader Soulmate AU Mood Board

- - -

Triple Frontier

Ben Miller; Headcanons + Drabble - Flirting > Falling in Love > Confession + First Kiss (fluff)

- - - - - - - - - - -

**Holiday/Event Masterlists**

Halloween:

2017-2021 Halloween Masterlist

13 Days of Halloween 2022

Winter/Christmas:

2017-2022 Winter/Christmas Masterlist Post

Valentines Day:

2018-2023 Valentines Day Masterlist

- - - - - - - - -

Other:

- - - - - - - -

- -

Scenario Games Masterlist

*Birthday matchup games for various fandoms

- - 

Soulmate AU Series Masterlist

*Multiple fandoms

- - 

30 Day Writing Challenge Masterlist

*Sept 2021 Writing Challenge (30 fics; multiple characters/fandoms)

- -

MCM & WCW Posts

- -

My UQuizzes

*aesthetic, fandom and misc themes

- - 

My Gifs

- - 

My Writing Prompts Masterlist

*for requests

Guest Writers Submitted Works:

Ship Event Drabbles Masterlist (5k followers event)

Smolpersonbigworld

Guest Writer Jay

Guest Writer @thebookbakery (writing blog @trashywritestrash)

- - - - - - - -

[lowslore]

Character Introduction: Liesl Simmons

[Image ID in Alt. Text]

Name: Liesl Simmons Pronouns: she/her (cisgender) | Sexuality: Biromantic asexual | Age: 25 Occupation: Detective at the Sneak Peek: Field Work Department Cinnamon Roll Alignment: Looks like a cinnamon roll, could actually kill you Alignment: Lawful neutral Appearance: Short blonde bob, glasses, freckles, bangs, blue eyes, light skin

Strengths: analytical, strong fighter, sneaky sneak extraordinaire, family loyalty

Weaknesses: overly protective/control freak, overly emotional, refuses to stand up for her beliefs

Relationships:

Jacob Simmons (Husband): Liesl and Jacob have an incredibly soft and communicative relationship. Liesl does get a little annoyed that Jacob refuses to let any negative emotions out, but they are absolutely in love.

Faith Simmons (Sister): Liesl can be incredibly overprotective over Faith, but she wants what is best for her sister, and has done her best to look after and support her throughout her life.

Joe Smith (Friend): Liesl and Joe have been friends for a long time, and he was also friends with Lana. The three of them bonded strongly in secondary school, and Joe and Liesl remain close today.

Lana O’Connor [Deceased?] (Friend): The Giver’s daughter, Lana was close friends with Liesl and Joe, until she was supposedly killed while attempting to carry out a terrorist attack.

Darren Raymond (Boss/Friend?): Darren and Liesl have a contentious relationship, but a lot of mutual respect for each other.

Facts:

Liesl is a Dustie - someone who can see colour in the world around her. She chooses to hide this and doesn’t want to draw attention to herself for fear of unveiling this.

For those sections in which TWITRD becomes more of a 3rd omniscient narrative voice, Liesl is generally our POV and Main character.

She has been solving cases from when she was very young, from the first eraser that went missing to the One She Couldn’t Solve near the end of Secondary School: the mysterious disappearance and rumoured death of her friend.

Aesthetics: A single spot of yellow amidst a grey world, an unassuming head ducking as it passes a skyscraper, a flame which is quickly dampened but keeps on glowing, the person whose face you can never properly picture, practiced blandness, hiding in plain sight, passing unnoticed

GBaS Taglist (ask to be added or removed): @thelaughingstag​, @naps-tries-writing​

WIP Intro | Playlist