#that idea that if it's in a song or an interview it's 'fair game' is true to an extent but also. complicated. | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

thedragonagebigbang · 3 months ago

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Bang Creator Interview: Tumblr: @crabs-with-sticks | AO3: CrabsWithSticks

The Collaboration period has begun! In these quiet months before works are due, we want to foster a sense of excitement, camaraderie, and celebration among our participants. To that end, all participants were given the option of a formal interview by our mod, Dema, or an informal “ask-game” survey. We hope you enjoy getting to know our phenomenal creators as much as we have!

Found Family in Crisis!!!!!! How This Local Woman's Life Just Keeps Getting Worse!!!

Jacs and Dema talk music, tragedy, DMing tabletop games, and OCs who won't follow the damn rules

Dema: Good morning! Happy Saturday. Are you writing today?

Jacs: I'm hoping to! Though I might be taking a break from my actual project to do some fun oneshots. Give myself a bit of time away from the tragedy of my bang fic and write something happy haha

Dema: That is very fair! Especially with heavier fics. How do you get in the zone to write, regardless of the project? Or does it vary depending on the vibes of your fic?

Jacs: Normally it involves getting nice and cozy under a blanket on the couch with a good cup of tea. I'll sometimes put a playlist on to get into a particular vibe, I've got a bunch of character playlists which can help get into the perspective of whatever oc I'm writing that day.

Dema: I won't get too specific with this question but, if there is one song on your playlist that especially fits your bang fic, what would it be?

Jacs: Hmm, I'd say probably 'Sampson' by Regina Spektor. The song is based on a tragic biblical story and is all about what could have happened if things had worked out differently. If the love had been enough to save them, then they wouldn't have been remembered by history but they would have been happy.

Dema: Oh okay, arrow straight to the heart. I see, I see.

Jacs: Yeah, I'm a known tragedy enjoyer, just rolling around in the sadness like a dog in a puddle. In order to get optimal levels of tragedy you gotta have some happiness first just so that readers can really see that it didn't have to be this way (but they never could have changed it).

Dema: I can't wait to read it! I also love tragedy, and especially in that ratio. Is there a particular one-shot idea you have kicking around, to cleanse the palate?

Jacs: Not sure! Though probably something with my oc Luca Trevelyan with Dorian, though I haven't actually managed to get very far through that particular playthrough yet....I'm a bit of a serial oc creator who then never gets around to actually playing them in the game.

Dema: Do you always make your OCs in game? Even if you don't get around to the playthrough?

Jacs: Yep! It’s probably my favourite part of Dragon Age, or any CRPG. I really like thinking up characters, with their conflicts and histories. I'm a forever DM in real life, so I'm fairly used to making up characters and then never playing them, although at least with Dragon Age I already know the events of the game they'll be going through, so I have a better idea of their development arcs. I am trying to do a re-playthrough of the whole series before Veilguard comes out, but we'll see how successful that is haha.

Dema: Do you find that DMing has informed the way you structure your stories?

Jacs: I'd say that it probably has. When I DM I'm always keeping a hand on the pulse of all the characters, their emotions and where they're at in their arcs, because my aim is really to tell a good story. So I think it can help me to see things from the big picture as well as a more mechanical perspective. Though sometimes I do need to tell myself to stop looking at the big picture and just focus on what is at hand.

Dema: I'm a bit in awe of DMs. To me it seems like being the conductor of an orchestra, except all your musicians are improvising. Do your characters sometimes feel like players? Or do they tend to stay within the lines?

Jacs: They do end up getting away from me sometimes, or they'll do something that leaves me going 'huh, why did you just make that decision', because I know it's accurate but I'm not entirely sure why. Though sadly there's no actual player to ask...just my brain. I was intending to make quite a whimsical and happy Brosca, but she just keeps doing morally grey things!

Dema: HAHA ah yes, relatable. I find it's such an interesting balance, for me, between wanting everything in the story to feel a bit inevitable (especially in a tragedy!) and embracing the realism of some things just not having a clear explanation, especially character decisions.

Jacs: Yeah for sure! It's great when characters are messy and contradictory, I just wish it wasn't so hard...I had a character at one point who was making a whole bunch of decisions I wasn't expecting or had planned for, and I'd try to think 'ok why is this character doing this?' and all she supplied in return was 'I'm lactose intolerant'...which honestly was a very in character response; just straight up ignoring the question.

Dema: A character in writing, or a character in a campaign you were DMing?

Jacs: A character I was writing.

Dema: Hahaha, incredible.

Jacs: I sometimes have, I guess little 'conversations' with my characters in my head where I tap into the section of my brain that they live in.

Dema: That's a great strategy! Is that how your characters first come to be?

Jacs: Hmm, I think the conversation part comes a bit later when I have some context for them, either in their history or in the game itself. It starts off as a lot of collaging together different ideas until it makes a full character. Often I start off from a particular theme or emotional angle I'm interested in exploring. So one started off as 'religious trauma', and another from 'idealism in a cruel society' and so on.

Dema: Has that first theme or idea ever come from a really unexpected source? And related to this, do you tend to be primarily inspired by the source material itself? I know that's a big reason so many of us love DA in particular.

Jacs: I think the themes are usually all ideas that I'm already interested in, but it's super fun seeing the way it can connect to the worldbuilding and lore. I think it's really important for characters to have specifics which tie them into the world around them, so thinking about how their family might have lived in the particular part of the world they're from, how they and the people around them either adhere to or go against it, and what impact that would have on their story. It's really fun looking at how a theme can change based on where the character comes from, like a character with conflict based around religious trauma is going to be different if they're human, Dalish or a city elf, and the world will react to them differently because of that.

Dema: Now I simply must ask you if you ever write AU fics.

Jacs: I haven't written many to be honest, though I do have some ideas for some. It can be hard translating a story that is really rooted in the specifics of one particular world and translating that to another. So I'm always really impressed to see when other people do it so well! I often find you can find a good parallel for one aspect of a character, but then you have to try to fit a second aspect or character conflict in and it doesn't fit the new world at all!

Dema: I feel the same!

Jacs: Writing; it's hard man.

Dema: It is! So why do you do it!? And a follow-up question: writing is hard, and you're signed up for a Big Bang! What made you interested? Is it your first one or have you done this before?

Jacs: It's like a wonderful little puzzle; except it can be all wibbly wobbly and just like real life it doesn't always need to make sense- it's lovely just to embrace the humanness of character writing!

So a bit of context, I recently finished postgraduate studies, and realised I didn't have any hobbies! I used to love creative writing of any sort when I was but a young whippersnapper (they say, in their mid 20s), so I decided to embrace the cringe and get back at it. I've never participated in any fandom events, or even written something this long that wasn't academic! But I'm really loving the community around this event and getting to chat to other writers as we all write (and suffer) together!

Dema: In the last minutes, and just for fun: can you come up with a click-bait title for your fic? Without giving anything major away, of course.

Jacs: Maybe something like 'Found Family in Crisis!!!!!! How This Local Woman's Life Just Keeps Getting Worse!!!’ (To quote the venerable Sir Terry Prattchet: And all those exclamation marks, you notice? Five? A sure sign of someone who wears his underpants on his head.)

Dema: Ten out of Ten, would click again. Thank you so much for setting aside this time to chat with me!

Jacs: No worries! I had a great time!

#fandom big bang #dragon age #dragon age fanfic #2024 interviews #writer interviews

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borisbubbles · 7 months ago

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Eurovision 2024: #33

33. BELGIUM Mustii - "Before the party's over" 32nd place

youtube

Decade Ranking: 125/153 [Above Vladana, below Iru]

and now I get to be smug: (date of posting, the night before the song was released, when it leaked.)

When I'm right, you'll know it. Which of you was also never fooled by RTBF's extensive PR and always suspected the semi was where it would end? Belgium never do well if we're an overdog, that's been proven again and again and again. Not enough time has passed for the Eurofans to accept the truth about "The Party is Over", so let me break it to you with zero filter.

BELGIUM HAD A BAD SONG. *THAT* IS WHY THEY WERE ELIMINATED.

Yes, a BAD SONG. Sure, the live was Very Not Good and that didn't help, (I"ll get to that), but it wasn't "four points ahead of Besa" bad. One doesn't just tumble from "critically acclaimed fan fave and expected top ten placer" to that on the basis of one underwhelming live. Kaleen was arguably worse than Mustii and faced direct competition from three other entries (Mustii only from one and it was fucking DONS ♥) and she still scraped through. That is the difference between a good Eurovision song, and a bad one.

So what makes "Before the party's over" that bad? You mean besides that it takes forever to build up into a climax that isn't even that good?

Besides the literal goat noises + unfortunate singing face?

Besides the word salad lyrics that use a lot of words to say nothing at all? ("ARE YOU STILL PLAYING THE GAME OR BREAKING THE RULES") What game? What rules? WHAT ARE YOU SINGING ABOUT?! This lyrics are as tiresome to read as they were tedious to hear.

Maybe the fact that's it's appalingly vainglorious?

Like, what's the matter? An enibriated gay enters the stage, behaves like he's the centre of the universe, deludes himself into thinking he serves, mama (refering to his own behaviour as that in his mind, ofc) and everybody is too pre-occupied on their phones to pay him attention. That's half of homosexuality during karaoke night at the gay bar. Big deal. If the ambition is to do well in Eurovision, perhaps one should aim higher than "glamped-up Mirud"?

That said, it wasn't until the live in the Semi i realized why nothing works. Once you see it performed on a stage the AZERBAIJANI COLOURS come out, and they're not a part of any televote-qualifier rainbow that I've ever seen. If you're going to come in all "I AM AWESOME" then gives us a reason to agree with you? It was a lot of style attempting to cover a complete lack of substance, and doing it poorly. The song was a bluff, an empty promise carefully aimed at currying jury votes (hence why it dominated early polls) and the live exposed it for what it was. End of.

I've also seen people toss around the idea that Mustii was a Sennek, but I don't believe this is fair towards either of them. Sennek had a great song, and no vision. She assumed the song would be enough get her into the final by default. She then spent the rest of the preseason guzzling down glasses of zinfandel until she took the stage and everyone -to their HORROR- understood how woefully unprepared and inexperienced she was.

Mustii, if anything, was Sennek's direct opposite. He had an unvoteable song and a clear vision in mind (himself.) and worked VERY hard to engineer it into a qualifier. So much that he actively neglected basic human needs such as sleep? Like I've seen at least THREE different interviews where Mustii cheerfully reveals he'd been rehearsing so often that he hasn't slept in days, like dude, TAKE ALL THE NAPS IN THE WORLD. REST YOURSELF. PLEASE.

So with that in mind, I can ~understand~ why he wasn't good live. If you work yourself into insomnia and anxiety, and then are thrown into the most TOXIC BACKSTAGE of all times, yeah ofc you're not going to be at your best.

Even with a good live, I still think Belgium NQ. The song was hopeless. Let this be an eternal reminder for everyone that Fade to Blacks will no longer be tolerated in Eurovision across any flag and banner.

THE RANKING

#Eurovision 2024 #Eurovision #ESC #ESC 2024 #Eurovision Song Contest #Belgium #Mustii #Thomas Mustin #Before the party's over #Youtube

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girls-are-weird · 1 year ago

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Wilmon 2, 3 and 9 :)

2. What is something that they gave one another that has a lot of meaning?

well, simon already gave wille a song, didn't he? (even if the giant doofus wasn't aware it was about him. xD)

as for what wille would give simon, i'm thinking the most special, genuine thing would be something erik-related, something that simon knows holds a special place in wille's heart. i've actually been toying with an idea about this-- don't expect me to write it anytime soon because i'm so busy and cannot work on more than one fic at a time, but i still don't want to say much just in case i do manage to write it at some point.

3. How would one another describe their partner?

oh god. do y'all have seven hours to waste here reading? xD in all seriousness, i think this is one of those things where the answer starts all teasing and amused for both of them, and then veers off into earnest sentimentality to the point that whoever's listening starts feeling like they're intruding on an entirely too intimate moment. in wille's case, mainly, because he's the biggest sap out of the two of them. simon does get sentimental as well, but he's more succinct about it-- less "it's like the sun rises out of the darkness whenever he smiles" and waxing poetic with full sincerity, and more "he's so caring, and so brave, and i'm so proud of him and i love him so much, and he's everything."

9. What is something small that they would randomly pick up for one another?

wille often gets simon flowers. not like the really ostentatious bouquets of red roses or anything, but just a handful of flowers, different kinds/sizes/types/colors each time, every once in a while. he also might get him any music-themed trinkets he comes across-- nothing super expensive, because he knows simon wouldn't approve of that, but probably unique pieces.

simon gets wille clothes/accessories/toys for their puppy (nalle, if you've been following my interview-verse) (oh, and their kids, i guess, eventually). i know, i know, but this is a headcanon dear to my heart so let me explain: so wille loves buying stuff for his children (furbaby included) and simon is always trying to rein him in. so they'll be at some store or fair or flea market or something and wille would find something adorable and be all "simon! look! wouldn't nalle look so cute in this?" and simon would be like "he doesn't need that, you're going to spoil him" and wille would pout but relent. and they'd move on as intended, but then simon would come back, or send someone to buy the thing afterward, and wille would tease him about how he loves to spoil nalle just as much as wille does. wille may be the biggest sap, but they're both suckers when it comes to their babies.

50 OTP questions game | send me a question!

#young royals #young royals netflix #prince wilhelm #simon eriksson #wilmon #wilhelm x simon #wille and simon #hi there otp #simon x wilhelm #wille x simon #simon x wille #ask game #send me more plz!

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justthinkingaboutlouis · 11 months ago

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Thanks for the tag dear Logan @milfmas. Celebrating louis day with this game such a fun idea!

when did you become a louie?

Well in late 2020 got into 1d & in early 2021 all of their solo music and louis chose me as his fan.

your earliest fandom memory?

11th year 1d anniversary where everyone was trying to achieve 1 billion streams for DMD especially on IG & Youtube <3

your favourite song? (one off walls and one off fitf)

Always you (I'm also obsessed with KMM these days) and Saturdays

your favourite music video?

Miss You

your favourite gig?

Never been to a live show. But my fav memory is live blogging during O2 & Philly show

your favourite louis hair?

Peaky blinders always <3

your favourite louis interview?

To be fair love you gonna have this on your body for the rest of your life. That one hahahaha

suit louis or tanktop louis?

No I'll not choose thank you.

favourite louis tattoo?

Stag & Smiley both

favourite louis bodypart? (c'mon we all have one!)

His gorgeous face especially cheekbones

Please feel free to join in on the fun. I would love to read everyone's fav things. I'm gonna be brave & tag few people <3

@whatcoloriscerise @harryisthelilspoon @goldcrumble @satelliteee28 @lululawrence @eylip @allthelovelou28 @sunflowervoltwentyeight@louispositivityanon

#tag games

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miniar · 1 year ago

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So Apparently Diablo IV is coming in a perfect display of Blizzard's ongoing downfall.

Blizzard Entertainment went and fucked up a while back by banning a Hearthstone tournament champion from competing because he voiced support for Hong Kong protesters in an interview and since then things have only gotten worse.

Diablo 1 and 2 were iconic games along with the warcraft and starcraft series. For a long time these games were praised and loved as reliable good fun and the blizzard servers that let you play with people around the world were... well.. they existed and were perfectly serviceable.

The games ofc would connect to blizzard net by default so when that whole thing was discontinued that was simply that.

Then World of Warcraft happened, and a popular cash cow that was. It fast became the most played MMO around. I played it.

Of course, when you reach late game content it was all a tedious grind requiring multiple hours of multiple days of commitment to attend, and you were required to have the correct gear and correct stats and correct skills to be permitted to attend, and so any individuality or desire to do anything but this meant you might as well be playing a single player game if it wasn't for the (usually toxic) chat.

When Diablo 3 came out, many of us old timers bought it and played it. It had references to the old stories and it was a good time. Fun even. It had it's flaws, ofc, but there are some lines from that game that still play in my head when the situation is about right.

I had no idea Diablo 4 was in the works. To be fair, I'm not paying as much attention as some do, but given how big the Diablo franchise was, it came as a complete surprise to see it suggested in my Steam queue. A tiny nostalgic spark went off in my head and I wondered what direction they'd take the story from where it left off, what kind of heroes would be called, whether maybe I should pick it up and play necromancer again, my go to "bring your own army" build dreamily dancing in the far back of my old goth mind.

And the video trailer gave me absolutely no information what so ever. It was a popular song (you should see me in a crown) playing over the unimpressive "reveal" of a succubus-esque form followed by shots of mid combat chaos.

And nothing else.

Nothing.

No interesting characters, no indication of what the class options are going to be, no suggestion as to what the story is, or why, or anything remotely interesting.

Just, "check out this sexy boss we made, also here's some combat".

It REEKS of half-assed cash-grab mediocrity, at best.

And that's the thing. In the last decade or so, Blizzard's slowly but surely becoming known for shit customer service, product decline, and absolute lack of anything remotely resembling a spark of creativity.

Diablo 4 looks like a knock-off diablo phone game.

Blizzard, by the way, created a phone game, and instead of reworking their earlier games and porting them to a phone where a younger generation could experience the iconic franchise for what made it popular and older players could come back and bask in nostalgia, they built a boring, superficial mess.

And just to make it worse, just like their shitty phone game, it looks like Diablo 4 is gonna force you to be connected to the internet.

And you know, I'm annoyed, because these games were in the stack of things that made playing a game something I enjoyed doing. The stories, the characters, the challenge, it was all a good time. And now we're getting the "sad wankfest" versions from what used to be a pretty good game dev company.

It's like finding they've replaced one of your favorite fruits in the supermarket with an artificially flavored wax version that isn't actually for "eating" but you can chew and spit out pieces of it for the "experience" of what it might be like to eat a fruit as interpreted by a person who's only experience with said fruit was a picture and a third hand description of the flavor.

If you've never had an apple in your life, sure, maybe this'll be a good time for you, but for the love of all that is holy, please, there are better options out there, some of them are even free.

#diablo 4 #blizzard #gaming

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jentlemahae · 25 days ago

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to be fair all the promo she has done so far has been very good, she has done all the right interviews, she's done all the tiktoks etc, she just needs to keep the momentum going. you're right, she needs to attach her and her face to the song more. imo she needed a late night talk show of some sort, like she could have played the drinking game with jimmy fallon or some shit and then performed the song. obviously she'll do more performances when the album comes out (praying for rose on tiny desk and bbc live lounge!!!) but it's such a missed opportunity to not have at least one performance of apt with bruno. i'm so worried it'll become a new woman situation. new woman is lisa's best song but she'll never give the song the attention it deserves or even perform the full song bcs rosalia won't be there with her. i get that it is difficult to perform collabs bcs you kind of need the other person there but it's so frustrating that they didn't think it through far enough to plan ahead and get that apt performance with bruno. what was the point in her going to brazil???? i get that it's bruno's call to have her perform at his shows but still, that would have been super beneficial!!!!

yeah i think a talk show appearance would have such a good idea ! rosie is very charming and extroverted so i think it would have had such a good effect. hopefully she’ll do it when the album is out (on my knees for tiny desk!!) but it would have been ideal to do one variety appearance for apt and then a couple more for rosie! and yeah, a performance would have been great 🙃 tbh she could perform apt alone, i highly doubt bruno would mind, and it would associate her with the song in a very nice way 🤷🏻‍♀️ i imagine she likely doesn’t want out of respect of whatever, but i really don’t think bruno would be upset if she performed it without him, especially cause it would be great for her career. these days several artists have gone viral for their performances, so a good apt performance would go a long way for her :|

#anonymous #sophie ask

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davidwyatt309 · 4 months ago

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Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Dedicated Developers

In the ever-evolving realm of software development, finding the perfect talent feels like forging your own Excalibur – a mythical quest demanding strategy, discernment, and a touch of magic. But fear not, intrepid leader! This step-by-step guide will equip you with the knowledge to hire dedicated developers, the skilled artisans who will craft your digital vision into a reality.

Step 1: Unearth the Quest: Define Your Project Needs

Before venturing forth, embark on a journey of self-discovery. Clearly define your project's scope. Are you building the next groundbreaking mobile game, or perhaps a revolutionary AI-powered application that requires the expertise of hire prompt engineers? Identifying your specific needs – whether you require a team of hire Kotlin developers or specialists in cross-platform development – is the cornerstone of attracting the right talent pool.

Step 2: Chart Your Course: Scouting Grounds for Top Talent

The digital world offers a vast landscape for recruiting skilled developers. Platforms like LinkedIn and GitHub are teeming with experienced professionals. Consider developer communities or forums specific to your project's needs. If you require a team of wizards versed in the language of Kotlin, for instance, explore Kotlin-focused communities to find developers passionate about this technology.

Step 3: Craft Your Call to Arms: The Compelling Job Description

Your job description is your siren song, so make it resonate! Clearly outline the project requirements, desired skillsets (including specific programming languages and frameworks), and a glimpse into your company culture. Don't forget to showcase the project's most exciting aspects – what will truly motivate a talented developer to join your quest?

Step 4: The Gauntlet of Interviews: Unearthing Hidden Gems

Resumes are just the first impression. Design a series of interviews that delve deeper than technical prowess. Assess a candidate's problem-solving abilities, communication style, and cultural fit. Technical coding challenges can be a great way to gauge their skills, but also throw in some curveballs to see how they think critically under pressure.

Step 5: Trial by Code: The Power of Test Projects

Sometimes, the best way to assess a developer's fit is through a well-defined test project. This allows you to evaluate their coding style, ability to meet deadlines, and communication skills within a low-stakes environment.

Step 6: The Pact of Trust: References and Portfolio Power

Seek out references from past clients and employers. A developer's portfolio is their arsenal – scrutinize it carefully to see if their past projects align with your needs.

Step 7: Beyond the Code: Building Bridges of Communication

Technical skills are crucial, but a developer who can't communicate effectively is a recipe for disaster. Prioritize clear and concise communication throughout the hiring process. Look for developers who can articulate complex ideas, actively listen to feedback, and collaborate seamlessly within a team.

Step 8: The Contract Negotiation: Striking a Fair Bargain

Once you've found your ideal candidate, it's time to discuss compensation. Research average rates for developers with the desired skillset in your chosen location (be it local or remote). Remember, competitive compensation is key to attracting and retaining top talent.

Step 9: Building Your Fellowship: Fostering a Culture of Collaboration

Company culture is more than just virtual water coolers and online game nights. It's about shared values, work ethic, and a collaborative environment. Ensure your chosen developers align with your company culture for a harmonious and productive working relationship.

Step 10: The Path of Onboarding: Equipping Your Champions

Don't just throw your new recruits into the digital battlefield. A well-structured onboarding process is essential. Provide them with the tools, resources, and mentorship they need to integrate seamlessly into your team and start contributing effectively from day one.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to assembling a fellowship of dedicated developers – your digital knights who will wield their coding prowess to bring your project to life. Remember, the quest for exceptional talent is an ongoing journey. But with the right approach, you'll forge a team that empowers you to conquer the digital landscape and claim your own place in the ever-evolving world of technology.

#business #technology #hirededicateddevelopers #development

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newjerseyprelawland-blog · 1 year ago

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The Right to Copy Copyrights: Entering the Public Domain

By Gregory Martinez, Rutgers University–New Brunswick Class of 2026

October 1, 2023

In April 2021, Florence Welch of indie rock band Florence and the Machine announced plans to debut a Broadway adaptation of the American classic novel The Great Gatsby, leading to great anticipation for a fresh take on a seminal social commentary on the American dream and the aristocracy. And just two months earlier, plans to make an animated feature film were announced by DNeg Feature Animation. And a month before that, in January 2021, a prequel novel titled Nick was published by Michael Farris Smith, intended to tell the story of Gatsby narrator Nick Carroway. [1] So did pandemic reading remind everyone of their high school English novel? Not quite. Having been published in 1925, 2021 marked The Great Gatbsy’s 96th birthday, and the expiration of the 95 years US intellectual property law affords copyrighted works protection, meaning that the novel entered the public domain, a concept that reflects the true spirit of property law and presents interesting dilemmas surrounding the field as a whole.

T[1] he public domain is a rather straightforward term, referring to any work that for whatever reason lacks copyright protection. This typically occurs either when the work is ineligible for a copyright, or, in the topic at hand, the copyright has expired. Despite being designed to protect the rights of creators, there has always been a temporary aspect to said protection, and US law has always included guidance on how long it lasts. The regulations have changed throughout the years and remain complex, but the 95 years of protection is the most relevant in 2023, with all works published prior to 1928 currently available for adaptation, quotation, and free usage [2]. Newer legislation has declared any works published in 2002 and later protected for 70 years after the death of the author [3], more in spirit of the general idea of copyright expiry: that because creators do not last forever, their created works cannot be considered theirs forever. So once copyright expires, “writers and artists can mine the characters and plots of a work for their own purposes without having to ask permission or pay a fee” [4]. However the concept of usage under public domain, especially following expiry, is not as straightforward as it seems.

To understand what one can do with non-copyrighted works, it’s important to first understand what one can’t do with copyrighted ones, and why. Copyright law exists to motivate creatives to create things by promising exclusivity, a right to what one has created. People are legally barred from copying whatever one has made, enabling one to build a reputation and earn money. Of course direct copies are not the only things banned, if a singer writes a hit song and the next day someone decides to change one word and claim it as their own creation, it wouldn’t take a particularly good lawyer to block this from happening. This is easier to understand with concepts like music or writing, as it is simple to quantify the similarities between two works. However, it gets trickier with more abstract things like characters. West Virginia University School of Law professor S. Sean Tu explained in an interview that

“There's something called the Scène à Faire doctrine, which means that there are stock characters present in every story, like the comic relief character who's a bumbling buffoon, right? That's fair game to use, as long as you don't describe him or her in enough terms that breathes life into the character itself. If you've got a copyright on Harry Potter, does that mean that all boy wizards are copyrighted, or all stories with a wizard in it? No. But the closer you get to a boy wizard who fights an evil wizard that has seven lives, that looks a little bit closer. And if that boy wizard goes to Hogwarts, okay, that clearly is the expression that's protected." [5]

So when a work is copyrighted, the very core of the original idea is under protection, meaning any further usage of this has to come with the express approval of the copyright holder, typically for a fee. In order to produce the 2006 film The Da Vinci Code based on the 2003 novel of the same name, Columbia Studios paid author Dan Brown $6 million for the film rights [6]. The film was an undeniable financial success, grossing $760 million worldwide, and Dan Brown was appropriately credited for his role in its creation, even being credited as an executive producer on the film [7]. Creative expression was enabled, the proper people got their compensation, and everyone won, a perfect example of the spirit of copyright law. But just as important as protecting copyrighted works is protecting that which is not copyrighted. If everything was copyrighted forever, it would be difficult to create anything new without the argument that it was influenced to some degree by an existing idea or concept. Literary critic Northrop Frye articulates this well, quoted as saying that “Poetry can only be made out of other poems, novels out of other novels.”

Therefore, people are allowed and encouraged to put out new ideas without having to worry about infringing on a concept from ages ago they’ve never heard of, or even were subconsciously inspired by.

In Law and Literature, legal scholar and former federal judge Richard A Posner writes that under the test of “substantial similarity” that many courts use to determine copyright infringement,

“Romeo and Juliet itself would have infringed Arthur Brooke’s play The Tragicall Historye of Romeo and Juliet, published in 1562, which in turn would have infringed several earlier Romeo and Juliets, all of which might have infringed Ovid’s story of Pyramus and Thisbe—which in A Midsummer Night’s Dream Shakespeare staged as a play within the play: still another infringement of Ovid’s ‘copyright.’” [8]

This is an extreme example, but shows the extremities that the law could be used for if copyright law were allowed to run amok. Tomas Lipinski, professor in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Information Studies, states that “Copyrights expire because a copyright is a limited monopoly under the law…The purpose of copyright is to benefit society, not reward authors alone” [5]. Besides stimulating creativity, the limited nature of copyrights increases accessibility to historical works, and minimizes the possibility of impossibly hard legal dilemmas. As previously mentioned, in the year 2023 all works published prior to 1928 have entered the public domain. However there are still many, many pieces of historically valuable creative work that were created post-1928, and because of the age of some of these pieces, they are covered by copyright but have no ascertainable copyright owner, making them what is considered “orphan works”. This is especially relevant to the case of film preservation, where copies of newsreels, documentaries, instructional films, and even some Hollywood studio productions, are being lost to the winds of time because they cannot be digitized due to copyright infringement, and there is no way of finding out who actually holds the copyright [9].

The public domain is just as important a concept to copyright law as copyright itself is. So by making copyrights temporary, it keeps the protections it offers in check and ensures that no one has the ability to abuse it. There’s no perfect amount of maximum time to set for copyrights, but striking the balance between safeguarding the author’s work and recognizing when the work culturally no longer belongs to the author is vital, and in some cases it is even essential to recognize that the work is needed for the betterment of the public. Because of the extremely long lengths of copyright protection (currently life plus 70 years for natural authors, and 95 years from publication for works of corporate authorship), it is highly unlikely that one will see any works from one’s lifetime enter the public domain, creating extra costs for libraries, educational facilities, and creatives, all for copyrights that no longer benefit anyone in particular. It’s an interesting debate more philosophical than objective, but one that should be guiding policy making for the coming future.

______________________________________________________________

[1] Dolan, Lindsey. “‘The Great Gatsby’ Entered the Public Domain a Year Ago - Here’s How Creators Are Reimagining It.” Bookstr, 10 Apr. 2022, bookstr.com/article/the-great-gatsby-entered-the-public-domain-a-year-ago-heres-how-creators-are-reimagining-it/

[2] “The Public Domain.” The Public Domain | UC Copyright, University of California, copyright.universityofcalifornia.edu/use/public-domain.html

[3] “Libguides: Copyright Services: Copyright Term and the Public Domain.” Copyright Term and the Public Domain - Copyright Services - LibGuides at Cornell University, Cornell University, guides.library.cornell.edu/copyright/publicdomain.

[4] Williams, John. “The ‘Great Gatsby’ Glut .” The New York Times, The New York Times, 14 Jan. 2021, www.nytimes.com/2021/01/14/books/the-great-gatsby-public-domain.html.

[5] Kiger, Patrick J. “What Does It Mean When a Book, Movie or Song Enters the Public Domain?” HowStuffWorks, HowStuffWorks, 18 Jan. 2023, people.howstuffworks.com/what-does-public-domain-mean.htm.

[6] Getlin, Josh. “As Film Nears, Publisher Goes Into ‘Da Vinci’ Mode.” Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 3 Apr. 2006, www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2006-mar-14-et-davinci14-story.html.

[7] “Dan Brown | Writer, Producer, Actor.” IMDb, IMDb.com, www.imdb.com/name/nm1467010/.

[8] Posner, Richard A. “Copyright, Plagiarism, and Creativity.” Law and Literature, 3rd ed., Harvard University Press, Cambridge, MA, 2009, pp. 527.

[9] “Why the Public Domain Matters.” Center for the Study of the Public Domain, Duke Law, web.law.duke.edu/cspd/publicdomainday/2019/why/.

Image from https://copyright.universityofcalifornia.edu/use/public-domain.html#:~:text=No%20permission%20is%20needed%20to,and%20can%20be%20quoted%20extensively

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asoiaf-source · 1 year ago

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youtube

This video is about George RR Martin, author of Game of Thrones and the Song of Ice and Fire Series. This video is posted so that people can watch answers to his most popular questions non-stop, possibly before they interview him or watch him live so that they don't keep asking the same damn questions over and over again. There will be a second video with such answers as "Who is your favorite Character" and 'Why did you kill Ned?" Post comments on other stupid questions he keeps getting asked. Hopefully in the future, interviewers will ask more original and interesting questions.

CONTENTS INCLUDE: On idea for game of thrones on first professional submissions on where he would live in westeros on names in westeros on keeping secrets in books books vs tv show on taking something written back on his writing origin (bayone new jersey) on future of writing storytelling on crazy fan theories on adding cut material tv favorite scene on initial writing encouragement books vs tv on sexual content on show how he writes on fantasy tropes on who he read in high school on prequel stories on show power on hardest chapter to write on keeping ideas straight on when he writes on religions in westeros on politics in westeros on original trilogy idea on first published words on women in power

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There will be a second video with such answers as "Who is your favorite Character" and 'Why did you kill Ned?"

Post comments on other stupid questions he keeps getting asked. Hopefully in the future, interviewers will ask more original and interesting questions.

CONTENTS INCLUDE: Are the Wall & statue of Braavos built by man? On good vs Evil How long does he plan to write On brans paralysis, mental or physical Are wildlings related to humans? What made him use different POVs On early story influences ART vs Commerciality On turning books to movies On reading great fiction On RA Lafferty on meeting howard waldrop and gardner dozois on harlan ellison and writing with howard on howard waldrop on armageddon rag and Fair use lyrics on the first hugo losers party on first horror award on meeting wife first time paris on being a toastmaster on good/bad cons and guest of honors at events on 1979 kentucky convention on first writing convention panels

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George RR Martin Q&A The Grove Los Angeles July 26, 2011

George RR Martin answering a few questions before his book signing at the Barnes and Noble at The Grove in Los Angeles.

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George RR Martin Q&A The Grove Los Angeles July 26, 2011

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George R.R. Martin in conversation with Maura McHugh of Dublin 2019: An Irish Worldcon after a special screening of Forbidden Planet in 35mm. Recorded at the Irish Film Institute on the 17th of August 2019.

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Oldest George RR Martin Interview (1991)

#ASOIAF #GRRM Interview #Youtube

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musicarenagh · 1 year ago

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Grover Doyle: A Musical Journey Fueled by Passion and Perseverance For young Grover Doyle, music has always played a pivotal role, filling the empty spaces of his life with melodies and rhythms. Starting with piano lessons as a child, Grover's musical journey took a decisive turn when he picked up the guitar at the age of 12, setting him on a path to become one of the greatest musicians of his time. Throughout his musical pursuits, Grover faced his fair share of struggles, but they have not dampened his spirit. In fact, these challenges have only strengthened his determination to reach his full potential as an artist. With unwavering resolve, Grover remains focused on achieving greatness in the world of music. In his latest album, titled "Stutterboy ii," Grover draws inspiration from a wide range of influences. The songs on this album seamlessly blend new wave synth tones with surfy reverb guitar, accompanied by forward and percussive basslines and intricate syncopated drums. The result is a fierce, brooding, yet tender sound that leaves a lasting impact on the listener. With rusty vocals that add a unique character, Stutterboy's music can be described as a fusion of 1980s Post-Punk and 1990s Psych Rock, infused with subtle elements of 1960s Northern Soul and West Coast Surf. The band deliberately keeps the origins of the album a mystery, allowing the tracks to speak for themselves. "Stutterboy II" features a total of 10 songs spanning over 34 minutes and 31 seconds. From alternative rock to 80's punk, each track is imbued with insane guitar riffs that add an extra layer of intensity and excitement. In this exclusive interview with Mister Styx of Musicarenagh, we delve into Grover Doyle's musical journey, his creative process, and the inspiration behind "Stutterboy ii" Prepare to be enthralled by the passion and talent of a musician who is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene. Listen to Stutterboy ii below Follow Stutter Boy on Spotify Bandcamp Youtube Instagram What are your stage names -- for one of us -- Grover Doyle. Everyone else goes by their given/government names. Is there a story behind your stage name? More of an anecdote, really. One day we were playing that game where you place random names in front of your surname, in a jestful effort toy around with the idea of naming one's first born. Grover wound up in front of mind and I took to it. Where do you find inspiration? In conversation and people-watching, the music of others and how music aligns with the moment. What was the role of music in the early years of your life? All the empty spaces were filled with music of some sort. Whether it was my father's songs in the car, stealing my older brother's CDs to listen to with the living room stereo when no one else was around. Are you from a musical or artistic family? Musically inclined. Everyone in the family has artistic inclinations, but only a few have ever really pursued it beyond the hobby stage. My brother was the first real exception. Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? I don't know that I ever thought of it as becoming part of an industry, but music was always apart of my life, though it lie dormant for quite some time. I've always found it easy to gel with musicians or other musically inclined individuals, and so in watching my friends create the stuff, I inevitably caved to the compulsion. How did you learn to sing/write/to play? Had piano lessons off and on as a kid. When I picked up a guitar around the age of 12, I slowly, but eventually learned through various music books and tabs online (a newer convenience at that time). What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? Technically, the first was when my parents took me to Kenny G when I was four. The first concert I had an agency in attending was a local show of these pop punk and ska bands, a real suburban scene. I didn't really know the bands but I felt really cool seeing a local show at

13. How could you describe your music? Our drummer describes it as if David Bowie directed a spaghetti western. [caption id="attachment_49980" align="alignnone" width="720"] Our drummer describes it as if David Bowie directed a spaghetti western.[/caption] Describe your creative process. It varies, but it usually starts with the spark of a melody that inspires obsession. If I can obsess properly, then a song will come to fruition. What is your main inspiration? The works of all the great ones. What musician do you admire most and why? Dead? David Bowie. Alive? Cate Le Bon. Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? Certainly, feels that way. This project began with a very strong acoustic and surf bend. As pedals and amps become more involved, so the sound and songs developed. Who do you see as your main competitor? Supposed to say myself, right? I only feel animosity towards others when I'm unfocused. What are your interests outside of music? Books, movies, buildings, any kind of art that expands my perception and/or keeps me distracted. Deep diving obscure etymologies, histories, and WebMD. If it wasn't a music career, what would you be doing? A life of pure squalor and/or corporate law. What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? Getting it right. If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? The insufferable personalities: the unnecessary gatekeeping, the ill-informed shit-checking, and people getting off on talking down to others. https://open.spotify.com/artist/1v10IPCwbTRogj0xKfBqkT Why did you choose this as the title of this project? We don't like to talk about it. What are your plans for the coming months? Write more. Record More. Play more. Do you have any artistic collaboration plans? Oh most definitely. Have another project cooking with an EP on the horizon there, we are currently tracking for that. I play bass for another band called Mooncult. They will be dropping singles all summer.

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hookedtheghoul · 2 years ago

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Ok but hear me out for a sec.

Is Danhausen actually trying to befriend MJF or is there a deeper plot going on? Let’s all think about what Max sees: a total and complete idiot (though a creepy one - he seems a little scared of D) who is also annoying as hell. The non-threatening aura of idiocy just might make him let his guard down enough to reluctantly allow D closer and possibly start thinking of ways to use him.

Has anyone asked what D sees? Because I think he sees not a possible new friend but a person to be used. Even when we’ve seen it, we tend to forget Evilhausen. He’s there. Constantly. Posting those cryptic songs and making me interpret metalcore for two hours just to write down the lyrics- At the end of the day, there is a part of him that is anything but nice and friendly. A part of him that would use the fuck out of MJF to get what he wants. We all know what - or who - he wants.

Picture this: MJF and D begin hanging together. Or at the very least every time we see Max, D is lurking somewhere nearby, in the periphery of the video, in the background of a photo or two. Eventually, he becomes bolder, louder. Interrupts an interview. Perhaps lets something slip that will endear the masses to Max We Don’t Get To See(TM). Helps him out in small but significant ways. Makes himself invaluable. Hints that this is the true devil he was looking for all along, the most powerful person in the company.

The last comment would make Hook, who doesn’t really have as much self-control as he should, blow the lid right off. How dare he? Didn’t their time together matter anything to this little piece of shit? And that. That is exactly what D has been counting on. Because an enraged Hook is a confrontational Hook. And that means he’ll seek D out on his own volition instead of prancing around with his new shiny toy tag team partner.

I have no idea what D’s end game with Hook actually is. I hope their story line is a love story. There are hints towards that (Kill For You is a love song, no matter how violent, and he’s also posted a breakup song or two). What I’m pretty sure about, if this is where the story is going, is that D will drop Max like he’s nothing. Which, to be fair, to him he probably is nothing.

And Max? The calculating, narcissistic person he is, couldn’t fathom the fact that he’s been played - because a person like him would never think anyone could be nearly as smart (or smarter) than he is. To him, it looks like even this fool cannot stand him. And the Max before would have just snorted and wished him good riddance. But the current Max? The Max who says things like “the only thing that makes me get up in the morning is this belt”? That Max is at his breaking point. And if a (in his eyes) stupid, useless nobody like D can drop him without as much as a goodbye... He’s alone. Truly, utterly alone. I don’t give a shit about anyone saying they don’t need anyone but themselves. Humans are a social species. We. Need. People. Even Max. Maybe even especially him. His fragile ego and massive need for validation make him need people.

Max is already at his most heel-ish. He can’t possibly be any more evil. Or perhaps he could, but I honestly don’t think that’s what would happen. He’s not emotionless. He’s not that detached. He’s anything but. And a person who feels as deeply as he does? This is his breaking point. This is the moment that will wipe the slate completely clean and leaves him empty. I don’t know who will pick up the pieces (Punk?). I don’t know what the end result will look like. But this could quite possibly be his face turn.

Me, increasingly annoyed with Daniel Hausen and concerned I am going to have to deal with MJF in the story lines I care about when I very much do not like MJF:

#Danhausen #MJF #AEW Hook #S rambling into the void #(not so much a void anymore thankfully)#have at it folks!

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berlinini · 2 years ago

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Louis mentioning Arctic Monkeys during Faith in the Future promo

Euphoria Magazine interview, Sept 1 2022:

The album immediately switches it up and dives straight into “Written All Over Your Face,” an infectious indie floor-filler that we both agree is reminiscent of the first two Arctic Monkeys albums. “I’m a big fan of that sound, big fan of that energy,” Tomlinson says. “I went into the room with these people I’ve done a few sessions with, and I said, let’s try and take this as punk as I can get away with. I suppose that’s where the Arctic Monkeys reference comes from; there are obviously punk elements within what they do.” At just two and a half minutes long, Tomlinson confesses it wasn’t a song he was trying too hard with. The aim was to create a “punchy energy,” declaring this was another song he could imagine performing live.

Alternative Press interview, Sept 6 2022:

That incorporation of dance melodies is something that erupts on “Out of My System,” a pulsating, punk-tinged Arctic Monkeys-inspired track that recalls the heyday of early aughts indie rock. The day Tomlinson made the track, he had been listening to “Teddy Picker” or “Dancing Shoes” (he can’t quite remember), but he knew exactly what kind of music he wanted to make. “I went in and said, ‘Let's try to write a song that is as punk as I can get away with,’” he recalls. And he led with that kind of intensity and energy from early Arctic Monkeys albums to craft the song.

Interview for 98.5 KRZ, Sept 19 2022:

[What would your theme song be (a song that would play whenever you walked into a room)?]

I’ve got no idea. No idea! It’s almost like what would be a boxing walk out. Maybe Teddy Picker, Arctic Monkeys?

Jack Saunders Show on BBC Radio 1, aired Sept 25 2022:

Jack: Last time you were here, you were in 2019, [...] and we played this game, called "Keep or delete?". Do you remember what happened during that game?

Louis: Not specifically, I do remember the game.

Jack: Ok. Let's see if this docs your memory [replays the 2019 game which Louis says he would get "delete" Arctic Monkeys' "I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor"]

Louis: I must've turned up drunk that day, I must have, honestly. That's a crime! What was The Strokes song? What was it again? Did you know? (...) It's a though pick, but I don't imagine why I picked that? "I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor" is a super nostalgic song for me, to be fair.

(...)

Jack: [The chorus is] the first thing that I thought when I listened to [Bigger Than Me]. I was like 'This chorus feels so big'. For you, those kinda of like big and kinda of indie choruses that you think about, what comes to mind? The ones that you always hammer or sing along? That kinda of thing...

Louis: You know what, the irony is the first thing that comes to me mind in terms of a chorus that I can remember singing, is ‘I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor’, which I cancelled the last time I was here, like an idiot!

Jack: [laughs] I'm not surprised, man, that is essential, a banger, isn't it?

Louis: It is, it is!

Jack: You worked with [producer] Mike Crossey on this one (...) Now, look, I've got a list of the credentials to display. He's worked with [lists artists] Arctic Monkeys - you can tell Mike you got rid of one of his songs--

Louis: No, no, I didn't, I didn't !

(...)

Jack: Louis, one more thing before you go (...) I'm gonna give you a chance of redemption

Louis: I like it

Jack: Would you like to bring [I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor] back?

Louis: One hundred percent, man!

Billboard.com interview, Nov 11 2022:

11. What’s your favorite album to listen to from top to bottom?

AM [by] Arctic Monkeys has got to be up there. Probably [their] Favourite Worst Nightmare, as well. Those two albums were absolutely massive for me growing up, so yeah, let’s go with them. Trying to think of a more recent one. The Snuts’ debut album, I absolutely loved. I loved their follow up as well.

LADbible TV Ask the Audience, aired on Nov 11 2022:

[If (you) were part of another band (which one would it be)]

It’s an hard question to answer, really. I mean, I fucking love Arctic Monkeys, just down the road from where I’m from, Sheffield.

Afterglow on Pandora, aired Nov 12 2022

On his musical influences

Growing up, as you’re kind of forming your opinions on different songs, artists, genres. For me, growing up in the north of England, guitar music was absolutely massive with the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Oasis, etc.

#another win for the louis & arctic monkeys girlies #louis quote #btm promo #alt press #euphoria magazine #arctic monkeys #jack saunders #to update #fitf promo #louis x am

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a-tale-of-legends · 2 years ago

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Aahh omg hi it's been a minute 😅😅 School life, am I& right-?

ok, I'm& gonna use this as an opportunity to ramble now hehe >:)

So is it just me who thinks Leon being implied to be treated like a literal celebrity is kinda a missed opportunity because they didn't make it a whole plot point :0?? I& mean, i& think it would've been a p interesting and unique (for Pokémon anyway) idea, no?

Idk if it's just me& who would've found it interesting for there to be Celebrity Struggles™, but?? :O

By celebrity struggles, I& mean things like what if Leon was unable to go into public without being swarmed at best and in danger at worst, or never being able to find friends who couldn't look past his champion status, or Hop and his family having to live in solitude to avoid being stalked, or even Hop being bullied out of jealousy from other kids, etc etc

(OOH, search Kisagari Attention on YouTube if you have time and you'll see what I& mean :00 The song is lowkey a bop)

So, taking a more realistic view at Leon and his life actually makes him significantly more interesting imo?? :00 Ik Pokemon is a kid's franchise and all, but HEESH,, IT'S MORE INTERESTING WHEN DARKER XDD

I& mean, Im& like 99% sure in Twilight Wings, there's a scene where the protagonist literally says "the champion isn't really smiling, is he?" while watching Leon get interviewed so liKE AM I REALLY THAT FAR OFF-- ASDFGHJKLKKF

Well, to be fair, the games are the most well-known and kid-friendly adaptation of Pokémon so they probably couldn't exactly include questionable dialogue like in that example but 😭😭 YK, it's fun to imagine

Anyway, the end of the ramble :DD

Oh yeah definitely!

Leon's struggles as a champion is definitely something that would have been interesting to dive into. We got crumbs from the game and some animated stuff. Not for Leon, but got the other gym leaders too. Raihan would talk about how people can leave harsh comments about his battles, due to his social media presence. In twilight wings there was a segment with the gym leaders being interviewed, clearly at a time where it should be for themselves ( Gordie eating, Nessa just going for a walk, Piers literally telling the camera man to fuck off lol). Galar is the first instance where the gym leaders and champion are treated as celebrities. Eyes are always on them. For Leon in particular, it's shown ( through crumbs) that he isn't exactly Mr. Smiles For Miles like he presents himself to be for the public.

And it's not like pokemon can't go into dark topics. Alola is known for having the subtext ( or text really) of abuse between the Aether siblings and Lusamine. In gen 5, Ghetsis exists, as well as his cult turned terrorist group in Team Plasma. Though, those examples are more for the antagonists of the story. Going into celebrity culture in swsh doesn't just apply to the villains here haha. So yes, I would argue that there's a lot more that could have been brought to light like you& said. It's especially hard when the focus isn't fully on that aspect. Hop would have been a great vehicle for that, but at the same time he idolizes his brother. It would be easy for him to simply not look at the reality of some things because his brother is all he knows.

That, plus the fact if we really want to go deeper into the celebrity culture/ struggle angle,then the game itself would have had to present itself differently. Something has to happen for characters like Leon show up and maybe imply more about what they are feeling and such.

I don't want this to get long, so I'll just end off by saying that with so many ideas that can come from swsh, especially with the characters, it's no wonder there's rewrites or heavy character analysis on them. Especially Leon. Poor guy needs a break.

#r answers #r rambles #champion leon #pokemon swsh

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aryareyes · 3 years ago

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***

Title : The way your eyes burn my soul

Pairing : Gruvia

Summary : Surprise!

Spotlights were shinning brightly, illuminating the dark interview hall, but what set the hall on fire was the audience's energetic ovation.

At the center of the hall, the interviewer, a beautiful young woman was smiling ear to ear, in front of her, her guests of the day, the best duo of the Pop world were seated, delighted matching grins on their faces.

- " Welcome to Pep Talk! Today's a very special day for us because we've our favorite Pop duo, Gray and Juvia with us!!"

The crowd whistled and cheered again as the two stars bowed their head respectfully to the crowd.

- " Thanks Mira, it's our pleasure to be here." The raven haired man answered as he flashed a grin to the public, making girls squeal.

- " Gray's right! We're very happy to be here!" The blue haired girl added, clad in her navy cocktail dress.

Again the crowd cheered but it was mostly male public this time. Mirajane smiled at the public and shifted her attention back to the duo.

- " So, Gray, Juvia, first of all, Congratulations for your last album, Icy Waves. It's a mega huge success! But most importantly, your fans—no actually, people who I know that don't like pop are into it after listening to that album. How do you feel about it?"

The female artist waited for the applause to end before talking,

" We are really glad to hear that." She chuckled contently, a glance at her partner before trailing, "Gray and I worked hard on it...and it was our first album together so..."

- " She worked extra hard for it," Her partner added as she shook her head playfully glaring at him. He smiled as he added, " It was her idea, so Icy waves wouldn't be possible without Juvs here." He winked at the girl, earing a smile in return.

- " He's exaggerating, its our team work."

- " Of course not." He rolled his eyes in response.

Mira chuckled at their bunter eyeing them carefully. Let's get my very wanted scoop.

- "I'm sure your fans love your teamwork. Now, let's talk about this particular song..." she started grinning slowly, earning some whistles and the name of the single from the crowd.

- " Looks like they want the same... The way your eyes burn my soul..." The interviewer paused glancing at the young stars who's cheeks were flushing slightly—at least Juvia's—Gray was doing a great job hiding it.

Mirajane Strauss cleared her throat slightly, getting their attention.

" Your voices...the feel in the song is..." she sighed softly looking for the right word, "...Magic...How did that magic happen?" She asked sincerely.

- " You said it, magic. I guess magic happens in music." Gray answered cleverly, shrugging.

- " I think that answer is too vague Gray," Mira chuckled imploring him to continue.

Gray's lips tugged up as he slid in a more comfortable position on the couch.

- " Recently at your album's success party, there were rumors of the two of you dating, so is it safe to assume the magic wouldn't have happened without that?"

Juvia smiled softly, adorable rosy hues adorning her cheeks.

- " Yes, I think it wouldn't have been magic if there's no feel in it."

Gray's smile turned into something genuine as his eyes were fondly looking over his girl beside him.

- "Are we lucky enough to get more details about it then?"

- " it, here means song right?" Gray lifted an eyebrow playfully earning some chuckles.

- " Definitely the song, but Juvia mentioned something about feel." Mira retorted with a mischievous smile, "So, I'd say the magic of the song—or love."

Gray scoffed. The audience cheered louder.

No wonder she was known for the title of the sweet devil.

Nonetheless, he responded with a natural expression. Years of experience of being the center of spotlights learned him to keep his cool in any kind of situation. He knew to give what the public wants to hear without revealing too much about his personal life neither.

- " We've known each other for a very long time. We'd each other's back through the thick and thin of our careers...so our friendship turned into something more, and I'm truly happy with the change."

The crowd went crazy and Juvia blushed slightly. He looked at her with a soft smile who smiled back brightly. God, she's so beautiful. He thought.

- " Heard that you guys! We were right! Our lovebirds here are dating!" Mira exclaimed in delight—she's a gruvia shipper after all.—" I guess it's time to say—excuse me for my language— Fucking Finally! "

People erupted more into cheers and whistles and chanted their favorite pop stars' ship name. Once the audience calmed down, the interviewer started talking again.

- " Well honestly, almost everyone were shipping you two together since forever and your chemistry is just so perfect. We felt it in the song." She stated as the stars thanked her and their fans.

- " So, now that you got your answers and I've my scoop, let's move to the fun part, shall we?" She continued cheerful with a glance at the public.

- " I don't feel it." Gray stated frowning and Juvia laughed at it.

- " The game is called 'tas-quest.' It's very simple. I'll ask you both questions concerning your partner which you've to answer honestly. Same goes with the tasks."

The two of the nodded and proceeded to play the game.

- " Okay. First question is for Juvia. Who's Gray's crush?"

- " Ouch. You sure want our couple to last?" The said guy retorted with fake mock. "I don't have any other crushes than my girlfriend, right here." He blow a kiss in her way but Juvia hit his arm, glaring at him playfully.

- " Babe. What?"

She huffed with a grin and turned to Mira, " He's a crush on his childhood friend."

- " What?! That was years ago! I was eight! And she's married now, thank you very much." He crossed his arms with a huff.

- " It's still a crush." She argued back.

- " She's a point." Mira smirked as Gray glared at her.

- " Your turn, who's the most jealous between the two of you?"

- " Obviously Juvia." The male singer laughed though his companion she gasped offended at him.

Mira bit back a chuckle as she looked at the young couple in amusement. Juvia pointed a finger at her boyfriend, "You got jealous of a fan on our last concert."

Gray crossed his arms with a roll of eyes. " He was too close."

- " Because he wanted to take a photo." She retorted with a scoff.

- " Yeah right. He invaded your private space and I protected you being the charming boyfriend I am." Gray muttered under his breath, not loud enough for the fans to here but Juvia and Mira did. The latter smirked while the female singer rolled her eyes but allowed a smile.

He was too cute when he was jealous.—She thought endearingly. Without a word she placed her hand on the his that was resting in the bare space between them and caressed it to smooth him. It worked as he gave her a look and she smiled. He turned his aside fighting back a smile of his own.

The reporter cleared her throat to her their attention, "Moving on to the next quest—oh it's actually a task for Juvia." She set her gaze on the girl who hastily pulled her hand away.

- " Yes ?"

- " You've to admit to Gray three of your secrets concerning him that you never would have told him." That earned chuckles and whispers.

- " Now it's interesting. I'm all ears Juvs. " He crossed his arms in curiosity, a playful gleam in his eyes.

- " Oh god, tell me I've a joker." She groaned in response—"Nope." Gray and Mira said at the same time.

Juvia pouted, "If I tell him my secret then it's no more a secret."

The sweet devil giggled, " That's basically the point of the game." The girl pouted more but turned her body slightly to her partner who was looking at her amused.

- " I've always found you cuter when you're sleeping...because you're messy, relaxed and actually a kid." She smiled tenderly at him as his cheeks tinted slightly. Their fans cooed. "...So I may have or may not have snapped pictures of you while sleeping." It was her turn to blush as he recovered from his flustered state to smirk at her handsomely.

- " Will we get some of them? " Mira interrupted.

- " Absolutely not." Juvia chuckled, "They're mine." The young girls sighed heavily but grinned at their favorite couple.

- " Next secret Wat'drop." Gray raised an eyebrow challengingly.

- " I stole one of your hoodies a few months ago and got to know recently that it's your favorite since you went through your room for it." She admitted with a cute frown.

- " Wait. My Detective Conan?" He asked in disbelief. His girlfriend bowed her head. " Guilty." She looked up at him again, " You're mad?" He rolled his eyes at her cuteness. How could he be mad at her when she was looking like that?

Instead of giving her a verbal answer, he ruffled her hair affectionately. Juvia smiled and promised herself to find him the real one he was looking for—the one he had that she stole (because she missed him too much), was not the one he wanted originally. The stocks wore off as it was a limited edition and he got himself the closest thing to the original. So, she would buy him the one originally he wanted.

- " You guys are really cute together!!" Their interviewer squealed as she looked at them and the crowd agreed with her.

They thanked her and Juvia proceeded to the last secret with a groan. "Arghh...I can't believe I'm confessing this to you on a live show."

Gray's eyebrow lifted, " That much secret?" He frowned concerned, " You don't need to tell it."

Juvia shook her head, " No, I should play fair." She mumbled as she stared around at her fans and smiled at them. She then squeezed Gray's hand and locking her eyes on him.

- " I had a crush on you from the very first day I met you." Gray's eyes widened slightly, surprise written all over his face. They forgot they got a loud audience as he blinked at her.

- " Really?"

- " Really." She said softly. He leaned to her side, and kept his voice low. The public didn't notice their murmurs as they've gone wild since Juvia's confession.

-" I don't understand...you didn't like me back then..." He frowned. Juvia gave him a look that meant 'later'.

Mira cheered and turned to them,

" Thanks for playing fair Juvia! You're awesome!"

- " Well, it's almost time. I've a last..." She looked at the small card in her hand before looking back at Gray. " task for Gray."

- " Tell us three things you like the most about Juvia." A gentle smile crossed his features as he glanced at his girl before facing Mira.

- " I think the list is long but I'll keep it short..." He held a hand up, enumerating. " She's one of the most talented and dedicated person I know. Whether it's job or studies or other common things, once she gets into it, she's determined to finish it and gives her hundred percent in everything she does. She's a hard worker and I honestly think that's the reason of her success."

Juvia was touched by his words as she stared at the man she loved talking about her so highly and proudly. She knew why she loved him so much.

- " She's a very good friend—she's this kind of friend who you would call if one day you committed a murder and don't know what to do about it. She'll help you bury the body and get you safely out of the mess." Juvia along with others laughed at his statement.— "Not that I'm planning to murder someone." He added and Juvia laughed more, leaning into him before giving him a look that meant, 'call me if you do'.

- " I guess what I'm trying to say is, she's trustworthy and be there for you through thick and thin. The kind of friend everyone needs to have in their life and I'm grateful to have her in mine." He got everyone's heart with that—if he didn't already had—as they stared at him in awe.

Gray turned to Juvia and locked his eyes with hers as he was about to say his last one. " What I love the most about you is how you look at me. You look at me as if I was your world and you love me so freely and so...easily. You accept my imperfections and love me for myself and not because I'm a star..." He held her hand and pulled her up with him as she started tearing up despite trying hard to not cry. Gray smiled lovingly at her—the one he only reserved for her and never showed in public. " Thanks for loving me, Wat'drop."

Without minding the public—because she saw only him—she brought a hand to his face and he leaned in her touch still giving her that loving look. She smiled, her heart and mind racing as her whole being was consumed of an overwhelming love for the man standing before her. She leaned in and pressed her lips against his in a sweet, soft kiss that sent the room shaking in fan's wild ovation.

When the lovebirds departed from each other with matching grins, hands still intertwined, Mira almost fainted but managed to end the show with hearts in her eyes.

The young couple was in the back of Gray's car as they were been driven back to their respective homes. Juvia was asleep on his shoulder as he kissed her head and stroked her hair tenderly. She's been working on her new album for the past week when they just finished their album and even before the interview, she was asked in her studio. He knew that she barely had enough for the past months. Gray was grateful to his production house to be on vacation but it's not the case for Juvia. She's to work for at least a week or two before her own holidays. Thankfully, he would be still on holidays by that time, hence he'd already planned their vacation—It was a surprise for her.

Half an hour later, Gray was carrying his girl to his bed in his penthouse slowly to not disturb her sleep. He lied her gently on it and proceeded to take her heals off and stripped himself, leaving only his boxers before climbing up in the bed with her. Juvia almost immediately clung to him like a koala, her head placed on his chest, a leg on his and an arm across his stomach. With a soft smile, he wrapped his arm around her and squeezed her to him.

- " Are you sure you don't want to get comfortable before sleeping?" He whispered after a moment. She only tightened her hold on him. Gray rolled his eyes and ran a hand in her hair as he stared down at her.

- " I know you're awake Juvs."

- " Why didn't you change my dress?" Her voice was muffled due to her position as she buried her face in his neck. "I don't mind it. It's just you."

Gray's heart skipped a beat and he rubbed circles on her bare arms.

- " I respect you too much to take advantage of you while you're sleeping." He murmured.

She raised her head up with a yawn but gave him a sleepy smile. "Gray, changing my dress to make me comfortable on bed is not taking advantage of me. You're my boyfriend so it's basically your right." He returned her smile, tucking a strand behind her ear to stare into her beautiful blue orbs.

His smile turned soon into a gorgeous smirk. Oh boy. Juvia flushed and shivered in his hold as his hand pulled the straps of her dress slowly. His eyes were intense on her as he murmured, "Why, I don't have a problem stripping you Wat'drop." His fingers caressed her bare shoulders burning her skin as they went by. "In fact, I prefer you naked around me." His lips trailed from her ears to cheeks down her jaw and Juvia placed her hands on his chest to push back slightly to stare down at him with an adorable pout.

- " You're such a pervert." She murmured. He pecked her lips in response before looking at her innocently. " I'm using my boyfriend rights here." She hit his chest lightly with a soft frown that turned into a smile, wiggled out of his hold ignoring his protests.

- "Close your eyes boyfriend."

- " Nope." Gray grinned back as he found the perfect position to stare at her, his eyes trailing to her bare neck and shoulders as she held the dress to her chest.

Juvia glared at him for a moment and he held her stare before she shrugged. Gray's eyes widened as she let her dress fall and pool around her feet and stood before him, clad only in her undies. He openly gaped at her too surprised to react as he took her in.

Gray knew Juvia was beautiful. He's known her for almost six years now and he'd seen her in daring dresses before.—it was part of the job. But right now, she was actually standing in his room, in his arm length, only in her navy matching underwear. She was a goddess. Before he could even process what was happening, her hand was unclasping her bra and Gray hurriedly turned to the other side, cursing as Juvia's laugh filled the room.

He was a goner if he saw her naked. He wouldn't be able to not jump her after so Gray shut his eyes tight and pushing away the amazing vision he just saw into the back of his mind as he waited for the little tease of his girlfriend to finish changing.

A moment later the bed shook and her arms slipped around his torso from behind as she placed her face on his cheek. He felt her bare legs slipping on his and he knew that she was wearing his t-shirt. He could handle it. He'd already seen her in his clothes and she's very—Stop right there, Gray.

- " Comm'o look at me..." She chuckled, "...I'm not naked—

- " Shut up." He groaned. She placed a few kisses on his cheek with a smile and after a moment, he finally turned on his back. She smiled brightly at him and wrapped her arms around his neck.

- " I love you." She whispered and kissed his jaw before tucking her face under his chin.

- " I love you too Wat'drop." He kissed her head squeezing her to him.

- " You said sweet things at the interview." She murmured.

- " I was being honest." He said as he caught her looking at him lovingly—as if he was her world. "And I meant every word." She was his world.

She hummed happily and closed her eyes. His arms were her safe, warm cocon. Her place.

-" Speaking of interview..." she lifted her head up in question, crossed her arms on his chest and placed her face on it, staring at his face. " You said something about crush." His lips tugged up and her own tugged hp in a slow smile under his curios gaze.

Juvia cupped his face with a hand and smiled adoringly down at him. " I had a crush on you in high school. Remember our first meet?"

He recalled it with a fond smile, " You fell on me with books dropping on us. There's so much dust and we started sneezing and the old librarian was yelling at us like a mad woman."

The blue haired girl chuckled happily. " Well, I guess I didn't only fell on you that day but also fell for you."

Gray's eyes widened, " You loved me back then?" His heart thumping against his chest and he was sure that she could hear it, judging by her smile.

- " I thought it was a crush at first. You were so handsome and—"

- " Were?" He raised a teasing eyebrow. She rolled her eyes. "—are and I just liked looking at you..." her eyes locked with his in a playful gleam. " That is until I knew that you were my rival in everything. Literally everything!" She groaned dropping her head on his chest. "It was so annoying. You always beat me in one point or just behind me in a point. So annoying!"

Gray snorted rubbing her back. " I was not used to have a competitor and I hated to lose." She mumbled before lifting her head to face him.

" You hate to lose too." He chuckled but didn't say anything letting her rant about how annoying it was to be constantly on war with him in high school.

- " But I loved bickering with you. I couldn't spend a day without bantering with you. Really." She looked up at him stroking his cheek. "Then, there's this project in our second year and we were partnered up."

- " We ended it, won the first prize." He murmured as she nodded eagerly. " We became friends during that period..." He trailed tracing his finger on her cheek.

- " We were already kinda friends—frenemies, I guess. I've always admired you. You were the first person I've ever met with so much determination to win." She whispered eyes closed.

- " Hmm, I liked you too. But too arrogant to admit it." She snorted at his statement.

- " Then best friends. We were inseparable by the end of high school..." Gray hummed a nod. " You supported me before my uncle to pursue music career."

- " It's because you were incredibly talented Wat'drop." He said sincerely. She smiled as his finger traced the form of her lips.

- " That's an exaggeration but thank you for the compliment." She opened her eyes to look at him, " Want to know something? " He rose an eyebrow, silently asking her to continue. "You were my inspiration to fight for what I want, to fight for my dream." She kissed his forehead gently, " I won't be here without you, Gray Fullbuster."

- " And I won't without you. You were my only family when things fell apart." He retorted as he recalled his dark period—when Ur died.

" You were my strength and my very reason to not give up." Her eyes glistened as his welled up, and she kissed his eyelids, lingering when lips there. "If it wasn't for you, I'd be in streets."

- " You had all our friends with you. We all had your back."

- " True. I'm grateful for them but you, Juvia, you're special. You held me together." She smiled tearfully.

- " You are special to me too. Always have been." He mumbled an 'I know' and rolled them over earning a surprised squeal from her as her back hit the mattress.

She stared up at him bringing him closer with her arms around his neck.

- " When did you know you loved me?" He asked gazing into her eyes.

- " Last year, when you were in your world tour." His love brushed the hair of his nape as he leaned his forehead against hers. " It started with little things. Like when I spent weekends in our friend's place watching movies and how you were not there to lean on or throw my legs on..." He grinned.

- " Then, we'd go to get a coffee and you weren't there to know that I don't add milk in my coffee. Then, I started missing your voice. I'd call you and couldn't get you so I would listen to your voicemail to hear your voice."

He leaned back to look at her apologetic, his being bursting with love for her. " Sorry about that. You know we barely have our phones on world tour."

- " I know, don't worry about it. But I yearned to hear your voice." He kissed her nose and lips in response.

- " By the time you were back, I knew I was madly in love with you and I couldn't imagine a life without you."

He could feel the love in her voice as she said it.

- " You aren't kidding—you practically choked me to death when you hugged me once you saw me in the airport." He teased with a grin.

- " Yeah well, I just realized I loved my best friend for years and you weren't there for eight moths. I wanted to lock you in a room and never let you go away from me."

- " It's creepy." He grinned.

- " You wouldn't have minded would you—wait why're you grinning?"

His grin widened and she held his face up and forced his eyes to hers. A moment in silence passed between them. Both of their hearts beating in sync as the realization settled over.

Juvia worded it slowly.

- " You loved me." Her tone was barley a whisper as she remained their eye lock.

- " I've loved you for a long time Wat'drop. A very very longtime that I denied and fought back my feelings."

- " Why?"

- " Because I've just lost Ur. And I've lost everyone I've loved. You, losing you...was unimaginable... I was terrified that my feelings will take you away from me so I fought them back to keep you with me. "

- " You wouldn't have lost me if you made a move earlier, Gray." She took a breath, " I've always denied my feelings for you as a crush and admiration until I really couldn't lie to me anymore..."

Gray sighed in response, "We we're both idiots huh..." She groaned, " We wasted years! We could've been together while we were still in Uni!"

Gray looked up at her, " Hey, we're together now and we've always loved each other without knowing so we're good." He shrugged and pecked her lips as she still had her pout on.

- " I'm a bit worried you...we are no more high school kids. We are popular now, successful stars in industry. And we're dating." Her voice dropped as she looked at him, " Going in public, was it a bad idea?"

- " Do you regret it?" He brushed away her hair, and she shook her head. "I'm just concerned about what it could do to our relationship...as much as I love my fans, when it's comes to their favorite celebrity's love life, they'd go crazy. Especially when two celebrities are dating. They don't see the fact that under the mask of popularity, it's two normal people with feelings and we can't really fault them." Her eyes started stinging as she stared at him. "I can't lose you, Gray."

He quickly reassured her pulling her in a tight hug. " You won't lose me." He pulled back slightly despite her pressure to stay like that. He stared into her eyes, " Didn't you say that I'm the most determined person you know?" A nod, "Juvia, I fight for what I want. " He lifted her chin up. " I'll always fight for you." He swore.

- " Promise?" Her tone was frail, and he smiled at her. " Promise. And you promise to fight for me?"

- " Always."

She brought a hand between them, holding up her little finger, He wrapped his around it and smiled when he saw their tattoos matching as their fingers locked together. Juvia dragged him to the tattoo parlor past midnight to get it in their half drunken states a few weeks ago. It was on the day of the success party of their first album together, Icy Waves. So they got themselves tattooed a drop of water on his finger and a snowflake on hers.

There's no ice without water and no water without ice. And Gray would be damned if he didn't keep that promise.

**********************

💧❄️ Happy Belated Gruvia day! ❄️💧

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