#the yin and yang symbolism??? two halves of a whole?????

[snail-noodle]

Just kiss already 🙄

[justrustandstardust]

i saw an incredible post on tiktok and i wanted to expand on it, because it's genuinely amazing. all the credit to @noesbf on tt for the idea that inspired these thoughts.

geto's character is threaded through with motifs of consumption. he takes things in, whether they be curses or daughters, and is spurred by intense empathy that ends up going in the "wrong" direction once he takes the entire jujutsu world under his wing.

when we're introduced to him in hidden inventory, our first glimpse is of him consuming a curse. he's also alone, in a dark alleyway, a symbolic image that parallels his journey throughout the story. he's a consumptive force, a facet of his being that ultimately leads to his undoing because he consumes the responsibility of "saving" the strong, who are burdened by the weak.

gojo, on the other hand, repels. he's an outward force, extending out a physical barrier that creates distance between his body and the world. where geto invites, gojo rejects. their abilities are constructed as diametrically opposed to one another's.

through the motif of gojo's abilities, this image captures their consume/repel dynamic in a singular shot. after riko's death, gojo leans into red, which repels. he focuses on growing stronger and in doing so, isolates himself from the world (and subsequently, geto). on the other hand, geto leans into blue, which aligns with the consumptive nature of his character. he harbours riko's death inside of himself and it festers, like a curse.

black holes are all-consuming vacuums. they subsume everything around them and create an inescapable vortex— once you're pulled in, you're never getting out. it will literally eat you and in doing so, makes you an everlasting part of it.

white holes, on the other hand, function in opposition to black ones along the same axis. where black holes pull, white holes push. nothing can enter them; they're doomed to a lonely eternity because of the force that holds the universe at a distance. nothing outside of it can affect what goes on within, yet it affects everything around it.

however, white holes can be subsumed by black holes. while nothing can enter them, if a white hole were to cross paths with a black hole, its consumptive force is so powerful that it would eat them too.

after geto and gojo experience a rapture in their relationship, gojo withdraws from the world, holding everyone at a literal and figurative distance. yet, even while he's alone, he's endlessly drawn towards geto. his eyes are bound but his soul isn't— it's tied to the piece of him inside of someone else, and gojo visibly feels the pull.

white/black holes also correspond to the colours associated with gojo and geto's characters (they align with their yin/yang dynamic, where yin (black) symbolizes darkness & the moon and yang (white) symbolizes light & the sun).

yin/yang are more than two halves; they form an indivisible whole. they become one another: light turns to dark, the moon replaces the sun in the sky, life transitions into death only to be born as life again.

if two celestial bodies exert oppositional forces upon each other, they function in equilibrium. geto's consumption was growing alongside gojo's repelling, reaching an event horizon when he took the lives of 112 villagers and forcing the two of them out of equilibrium. he continued to consume (curses, money, vulnerable people through his cult) until he died and took gojo's soul with him.

consumption can only exist if there's a repellant force pushing back. geto and gojo are not opposites, instead, they each contain the other— every yin has yang within it and vice versa.

they are borne of each other, they are unknowable without the other. they are more than matching; together, they are complete.

[huiyi07]

hey so do you guys ever think about how often Diluc is referred to as the ‘uncrowned king of Mondstadt’ since he’s like the only male heir to the noble families and like it or not, where Jean is the authority of the nation, he’s pretty much the symbolic face of Mondstadt and the values the nation projects— and despite his temperament, Diluc has learned to embrace it wholeheartedly. He’s charismatic, extremely righteous, and he blazes bright and gives the people of Mondstadt a fire that guides them in the dark, quite literally. Like he’s literally Bruce Wayne lmao

But he doesn’t want this, no, and here’s the proof- maybe he did, once upon a time, before everything happened— but he doesn’t really care about wine, he only cares about the winery because of the people in it and his father. He’s righteous but doesn’t give a damn about the rules and the knights of favonius. After what happened to him, he’s clearly a rebel at heart now, not some charming superhero who does everything expected of him, unlike before. In summary, Diluc was someone who was quite literally ready to become an (uncrowned) prince, pretty much royalty in every way except title- and on surface level, he still is, but he throws that mantle away in secret whenever he can.

And then look at Kaeya, his brother who’s always lived in his shadow. It’s easy to see that now, people don’t really project Mondstadt’s values onto Kaeya the same way they do onto Diluc, since lots of people hardly even remember that they’re brothers. And yeah people still think kaeya is reliable and nice, but also because of how Kaeya built his image after Diluc left— an excessively over the top personality that pretends to be sadistic, mean, and at the same time dripping with false charm. So despite that people still find him approachable and nice as expected of a knight, hardly anyone would call him befitting of a prince.

But Kaeya is actually so painfully and authentically ‘princely’ and kind, deep down— the way he deals with children, his fierce loyalty and willingness to protect people at all costs, his self sacrificial tendencies that most often appear for Diluc’s sake. Even the tidbits of lore we get about him scream aristocracy- his ‘ceremonial’ bladework, Alberich family secrets that reveal just how central they are to the kingdom of khaenriah. This is kinda obvious to any player who’s bothered to learn anything about kaeya, but to the characters in game, there are very few that know that side of him.

And whereas Diluc is forcibly projected the title of royalty and secretly rejects it, Kaeya was actually born into it- his family is very important to Khaenriah, and much like how he does with anything related to his past and heritage, he loudly and outwardly rejects anything to do with ‘royalty’. Diluc outwardly rejects what Kaeya shows (a darker, more ‘means justify the end’ nature), and Kaeya tries to hide what Diluc projects (a sophisticated and aristocratic upbringing).

Honestly? It’s as if they were swapped at birth. Kaeya’s real hidden nature, even after everything that happened to him, remains to be so unwavering and people-oriented, while Diluc’s true personality changed drastically over time. Not that Diluc isn’t unwavering or whatever, but Diluc mostly actively rejects relationships and prefers to do everything alone, obsessed with the idea that he doesn’t want anyone to get hurt, whereas Kaeya always, always yearns for companionship and for people to be by his side- solidarity.

Diluc is the poster image of royalty, but his brother who hides in the shadows is a real king. They complete each other, balance each other out, represent the parts that the other hides. I don’t know if hoyoverse always meant them to be that way, but damn they basically represent each other’s parts of themselves that they lost. Yin and Yang, two halves of the same whole.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Symbols

To describe a physical symbol, it might be easier if we first focus on its individual elements, then perhaps integrating all of these elements to create a more coherent whole. Below is an overview of elements or basic shapes that we typically find in symbols.

The Basic Shapes of Symbols

There are elemental structures that occur repeatedly, not only as component parts of more elaborate symbols, but also with rich meanings of their own.

It’s probably true to say that the simpler the symbol, the more scope there is for interpretation; ergo, the more meaningful it is and, paradoxically, the more complex it becomes.

These primary shapes transcend barriers of time, geography, and cultural context, part of a universal language that goes before, and beyond, words.

SPACE

The elements of a symbol are defined only by the space that is a part of its construction.

Like the wind, the effect of space is gauged by its effect on the things within it or surrounding it.

The concept of space, the void, is a profound part of our experience.

To reach a state of “emptiness” is, for many, the ultimate spiritual experience and a way of connecting to the Absolute.

To be aware of the possibility of space within a flat, two-dimensional representation is to give that shape substance and a new kind of reality that lifts it off the page and makes it real.

The realization that “nothing” can be “something” marked a profound leap forward in man’s development.

All creation myths begin with a Void, symbolic of potential.

Although attempts to explain the concept of space are inevitably faulty, it might help to think of a blank page.

Before a mark is made upon the paper, the potential for what might appear there is so vast as to be unimaginable, a consideration which causes consternation for some artists and writers.

Without this space, there is no arena for anything else to exist.

This absence of any thing means that no thing is the most important symbol in the World.

DOT

A dot might seem to be an unassuming little thing, the first mark on the pristine sheet of paper.

In this case, the dot is a beginning.

But see what just happened there? The dot, an essential component in the structure of the sentence, closed it, making it a symbol of ending.

Therefore, the dot is both an origination and a conclusion, encompassing all the possibilities of the Universe within it, a seed full of potential and a symbol of the Supreme Being.

The dot is the point of creation, for example the place where the arms of the cross intersect.

The dot is also called the bindhu, which means “drop.”

The bindhu is a symbol of the Absolute, marked on the forehead at the position of the third eye in the place believed to be the seat of the soul.

The presence of dots within a symbol can signify the presence of something else.

A dot in the center of the Star of David marks the quintessence, or Fifth Element.

It also acts as reminder of the concept of space.

The decorated dots that surround the doorways of Eastern temples are not merely ornamental devices but have significance relevant to the worshippers.

Dots frequently appear in this way, acting as a sort of shorthand for the tenets of a faith. Examples:

In the Jain symbol, the dots stand for the Three Jewels of Jainism.

The dots in each half of the yin-yang symbol unify the two halves: one dot is “yin,” the other “yang.” Together they demonstrate the interdependence of opposing forces.

CIRCLE

Effectively an expansion of the dot, the circle represents the spirit and the cosmos.

Further, the circle itself is constructed from “some thing” (the unbroken line) and “no thing” (the space inside and outside this line).

Therefore, the circle unifies spirit and matter.

The structure itself has great strength—think of the cylindrical shape of a lighthouse, built that way in order to withstand the fiercest attack by a stormy sea.

The physical and spiritual strength of this symbol are there because the perfect circle has no beginning and no end; it is unassailable.

This power is the reason why the circle is used in magical practices such as spell-casting.

The magic circle creates a fortress of psychic protection, a physical and spiritual safe haven where unwanted or uninvited entities cannot enter.

Hermes Trismegistus said of the circle: "God is a circle whose center is everywhere and circumference is nowhere."

Where would ancient man have seen the most important circles? Obviously, in the Sun and the Moon.

As the Sun, the circle is masculine, but when it is the Moon, it is feminine.

Because the passage of time is marked by the journey of the Sun, Moon and stars in orbit around our Earth, the circle is a symbol of the passage of time.

In this form, it commonly appears as the wheel.

Because the circle has no divisions and no sides, it is also a symbol of equality.

Example:

King Arthur’s Round Table was the perfect piece of furniture for the fellowship of Knights who were each as important as each other.

ARC

Perhaps the most prominent arc of the natural world appears in the elusive form of the rainbow, which primitive man saw as a bridge between the Heavens and the Earth.

As a part of a circle, the arc symbolizes potential spirit.

The position of the arc is important:

Upright, shaped like a cup or chalice, it implies the feminine principle, something that can contain the spirit.

If the arc is inverted, then the opposite is true and it becomes a triumphal, victorious, masculine symbol.

As such, the arc can take the form of an archway.

The vaulted or arched shape of many holy buildings, from a great variety of different faiths, represents the vault of the Heavens.

The arc shape often appears in planetary symbols.

VERTICAL LINE

Man stands upright, so the vertical line may represent the physical symbol of the number One, man striving toward spirit.

This simple line is the basic shape of the World Tree or Axis Mundi that connects the Heavens, the Earth and the lower regions.

It is not only a basic phallic symbol but also signifies the soul that strives for union with the Divine.

The upright line tells us where we are at a precise moment; think of the big hand of the clock, vertically oriented at 12 o’clock.

HORIZONTAL LINE

Represents: matter, and

the forward and backward movement of time.

This line also signifies

the skyline or horizon and man’s place on the Earth.

CROSS

Here, the vertical and horizontal lines come together to create a new symbol—the cross.

There are countless different types of cross. Despite any embellishments or devices, however, the basic meaning of the cross stays the same.

The earliest example of the cross comes from Crete and dates back to the fifteenth century BC although the sign is much older than this, ancient beyond proper reckoning.

It is an incredibly versatile and useful sign with many interpretations.

As the convergence of the vertical and horizontal lines, it symbolizes the union of the material and the spiritual (think of the sign of the cross given by Catholic priests).

As a geometric tool, it has no equal; if you put the cross inside the circle, then you are able to divide the circle equally.

Similarly, the cross is said to “give birth to” the square.

Because of its four cardinal points, the cross represents the elements and the directions.

Examples:

In the West the cross equates with the number 4,

but in China, it is associated with the number 5 since the “dot” in the middle of the cross, where the two arms intersect, is also included.

The cross is sometimes disguised as another symbol, such as a fourpetaled flower.

All over the world, the cross is a symbol of protection.

SQUARE

Said to be the first shape invented by Man, the square represents the created Universe as opposed to the spiritual dimensions depicted by the circle.

The square represents the Earth and the four elements.

Plato described the square, like the circle, as being “absolutely beautiful in itself.”

Like the cross, the square is associated with the number 4.

A square has four corners; to speak of the “four corners of the Earth” is something of an anomaly since the Earth is round, without corners.

All the symbolism of the number 4 is encompassed within the square, and it is interesting to note that, just as the square represents the created Universe, in the Hebrew faith the Holy Name of the Creator is comprised of four letters.

The square gives man a safe, static reference point, and a stable, unmoving shape as opposed to the continual motion of the circle.

Temples and holy buildings are often built in the form of a square, solidly designed to align with the four points of the compass.

Examples: The Ka’aba at Mecca; the base of the Buddhist Stupa; altars.

Square shapes define limits and create boundaries.

To speak of someone as being “square” means that they are fixed and unchangeable.

LOZENGE

A diamond shape often with rounded (rather than pointed) ends, the lozenge is often overlooked, but is actually a representation of the female genitalia.

As such, its most popular appearance is probably as the vesica piscis, the sacred doorway through which spirit enters the world of matter.

In heraldry, for example, the lozenge is used in place of the masculine shield, to denote a coat of arms belonging to a woman or a noncombative male, such as a member of the clergy.

TRIANGLE

The triangle shares all the symbolic significance of the number 3, as a shape, and therefore represents the many things that come in groups of three, from the Holy Trinity to the triple aspect of the Goddess.

Triangles appear in lots of different signs and symbols.

In ancient times, the triangle was considered synonymous with light, and the meanings of the triangle vary according to which way up it is:

When it sits firmly on its base, then it is a masculine, virile symbol, representing fire.

The other way up it becomes the water element, a chalice shape, emblematic of the feminine powers.

Balanced on its point in this way the triangle also represents the yoni, further underpinning the Goddess aspect.

The equilateral triangle is a harmonious form, used to indicate the Higher Powers, providing a framework, for example, for the All Seeing Eye of God.

As a symbol of strength, the triangle reinforces the corners of the square, both physically and meta-physically.

The solid shape of the triangle also makes its appearance in yogic positions, for example in the Trikona Asana or Triangle Posture.

DIAGONAL

The square can be divided into two diagonal triangles.

Because the length of these shapes has no simple relationship to its sides, the Greeks concluded that the diagonal must be a symbol of the irrational.

Therefore, the diagonal, or oblique, has come to be associated with the incomprehensible, occult world.

ZIG-ZAG

However it is interpreted, the jagged shape of the zig-zag carries with it the idea of heat, energy, vitality, and movement, the archetypal sign for lightning or electricity.

The double zig-zag that makes the astrological glyph for Aquarius could be water or it could be the life-force itself.

The serpent that spirals up the Caduceus is a softened zig-zag shape.

There is an inherent danger in the zig-zag, and the deities that carry it in their hands do so as a sign of their own authority and power.

Source ⚜ Writing Notes: Symbolism ⚜ Writing Notes & References

Hope this helps. Do share with me your writing if it does. I'd love to read your work!

[egoitsharu]

Lu Guang and Cheng Xiaoshi in Yin and Yang

What is Yin and Yang? 🌑

In Chinese philosophy, Yin and Yang are a way of understanding the world through dualities: darkness and light, passivity and activity, cold and heat, emotional and rational. These are not absolute opposites or good versus evil, but rather forces that need each other to exist. Within Yin, there is a part of Yang, and vice versa. Everything is in constant transformation and balance.

Cheng Xiaoshi as Yang 🖤

Yang represents the active, the impulsive, the emotional, the fire, the sun. Cheng Xiaoshi fits this energy because of:

Intense emotionality: Cheng is driven by his emotions. He is impulsive, sometimes acting without thinking, especially when he connects with the pain of the people he helps.

Direct action: He is the one who enters the photos, who acts and gets involved. He is always on the move, the spark of action.

Impulsiveness and passion: His approach to life is heart-first. This makes him compassionate, but also exposes him to suffering.

Lu Guang as Yin 🤍

Yin symbolizes introspection, rationality, analysis, calm, water, and the moon. Lu Guang is its natural representation:

Rationality and control: Lu Guang thinks before acting. He is analytical, serene, and often keeps his emotions to himself to maintain control.

Observant: He doesn't act directly within the photos, but he is the one who guides, plans, and anticipates risks.

Apparently cold: Although he is very sensitive, he shows it in a restrained manner. He appears distant, but his concern for Cheng is deep and constant.

The balance between them ☯️

The relationship between Cheng and Lu is not just friendship or work: it is a constant dance between Yin and Yang.

Cheng gives Lu emotional warmth, pushing him to connect more with feelings and not just logic.

Lu gives Cheng stability and boundaries, keeping him from getting lost in his emotionality and self-destruction.

When one loses control, the other balances him: if Cheng despairs, Lu slows him down. If Lu closes himself off too much, Cheng opens him up.

They are two halves of a whole. One cannot function without the other. Cheng represents life that burns brightly, and Lu represents the wisdom that contains it without extinguishing it.

Within Yin there is Yang, and within Yang there is Yin 🌓

Although Cheng is impulsive, he has moments of great sensitivity, where he demonstrates a quiet maturity (his Yin).

Although Lu Guang appears cold, he displays subtle gestures of deep care, such as his glances, his pauses to let Cheng feel, or the pain he silently carries (his Yang).

This shows that they are not pure extremes, but rather nuanced human beings. This makes them real, complex, and endearing.

(I would like to analyze the characters and their symbolism)

[fire-of-the-sun]

Noctis & Luna: Two Halves of a Whole

As the destined King of Light and Oracle form two halves of a whole divinely linked and fated to save the world, Noctis and Luna share a bond like none they've ever known. Though their individual callings are deeply intertwined regardless of their personal feelings, the genuine bond they cultivate transcends their pre-determined duties and encompasses a relationship that I believe to be a Yin and Yang dynamic - the definition of which can be described as two opposing, but complementary forces that are inextricably linked and balance each other to form a whole: Male and Female. Dark and Light. Sun and Moon. Night and Day. Black and White, etc. It's this element of their relationship that I'd like to explore here, as it seems clear to me that they were at least partially inspired by and designed to reflect this concept.

SYMBOLISM

Of course, the most obvious exemplification of this idea is found visually in their character's physical adherence to all black and all white clothing, a sartorial choice that is determined by their respective homelands of Tenebrae, which means "Darkness" in Latin, and Lucis which means "Light" - names clearly selected to further push this concept. Delving deeper into language, we know Noctis' name translates to "Light in the Night Sky" in Latin, but what is the singular Light in the night sky? The Moon, aka Luna. Similarly, Luna's middle name is Nox which, in Latin, also means "Night" - a direct reference back to Noctis. They literally share a piece of each other in the other's name, an exchange which is another notable aspect of the Yin and Yang dynamic that features the sharing of one within the other (the two dots in the larger circle).

I believe this concept is also reflected in Umbra and Pryna, Luna's dogs. Pryna is a white female dog (with black markings) that is obviously meant to reflect Luna and dies with her and Umbra, a black male dog (with white markings), who survives to continue to help Noctis. These magical dogs serve to bridge the divide between them and act as their only means to facilitate communication through the passing of a notebook, which I believe is also meant to reflect this element of exchange. Though it may have been more convenient for them and the audience to try to find some way to speak directly to each other over some device, it wouldn't serve the same purpose, and it would lessen the impact of them meeting in person to a degree. Their inability to touch, see or hear from each other beyond the written word only increases the longing that beats at the heart of their star-crossed lover's dynamic.

Another exchange is featured in the transferring of the Ring of the Lucii - the embodiment of Noctis' duty - as well as the Trident of the Oracle, the symbol of Luna's own power and a piece of herself that literally becomes part of him to aid his mission even after she's gone. Beyond this, we also see Noctis hold onto one of Luna's glowing flower petals after her image vanishes as it's light and her essence seems to meld into him. As the Ring and Trident are tools to help him succeed in his calling, the petal is personal and both gifts represent her roles to him: mentor as well as lover and acts as another reference to the "light within the dark" element of Yin and Yang.

Though Luna is obviously meant to represent the Moon (it's literally the meaning of her name), Noctis doesn't feel like an obvious reference to the Sun. Though his fate is linked to bringing back the Light, which is most notably displayed in the return of the Sun, I'd argue he and Luna are both the Moon - both the Light in the Night sky that combats the Darkness that must die to bring back the Sun. Saving the world can literally only be achieved through their union, just as Gentiana proposed:

"It is heartening to see the future King and the Oracle enjoy such familiarity. The fate of our world may depend on it." - Gentiana

The elements of Light and Darkness that permeate the story leads to some interesting symbolism. Light is a term used often and holds multiple meanings as, beyond physical Light, it also means Hope and, for Noctis and the world, Luna is the embodiment of that Hope. When she's gone, the world literally grows darker without such a beacon of Light to help keep it at bay. That task now belongs fully to Noctis and the passing of the torch is exemplified in her exchange with the Ring and the Trident.

"[...] For slowly but surely, the Light fades from our world. And as it does, the shadows loom ever longer until all succumbs to the Darkness. Darkness that evokes terror, hatred, and sorrow in the hearts of men. [...] Yet I beg you, do not surrender to Despair. Have faith, for our gods watch over us. By their blessings, by the Stars that light the heavens above, our world will be delivered from the perils of the Dark. [...] But first, I offer my solemn vow, on my honor as Oracle, I will not rest until the Darkness is banished from our world and the Light is restored." - Luna

And, just as Darkness is the opposite of Light, so Despair is the opposite of Hope and it's in this struggle that the story revolves and defines the crux of Noctis' internal conflict. Among other things, Noctis' journey is finding the ability to move on from the Despair of his losses and attaining and embodying Hope like Luna before him so he can be that for the world. It's Ardyn that tries to keep him trapped in Darkness and Despair by reminding him of his guilt and fears and Luna that tries to pull him into the Light by encouraging him and reminding him of his strength and capability. In the end, through the help of his loved ones, Noctis embraces Hope and becomes the true King of Light and saves the world by physically conquering Darkness and his own Despair. This growth is beautifully displayed in many moments, but notably in Noctis' final speech to the Glaives that mimics Luna's words:

"Even as the Darkness overcame our world, we kept the Light alive in our hearts. We've all lost friends and loved ones along the way, but the one thing we never lost was Hope. I ask you to stand by me and fight at my side for the Light and for the future of our world!" - Noctis

BALANCE

"Noct and Luna are a great match for each other personality-wise. They are both patient, and earnest, and capable of dealing with great sorrow. They would be each other’s shield, and their love for each other would only grow with time." - Ray Chase (Voice of Noctis)

Noctis and Luna were clearly intended to reflect and contrast in interesting ways that enhance the story and add depth to their individual characters. Though I won't begin to pretend to know all the deeper meanings to be mined in the Omen trailer, I was struck by the way Noctis and Luna are literally reflected throughout most of it with them depicted as mimicking each other's movements or seeing each other's reflections as their own, almost as if they're one person. I think this speaks to the creator's desire to showcase them in this way and lends further credence to the Yin and Yang aspect of their dynamic, in my opinion.

Let's break it down: Luna was obviously designed to be a few years older than Noctis to enhance her larger narrative function as a mentor figure. Given the duties she had to embrace at a young age and the hardships she's suffered, she is more mature, refined and accepting of her calling. Noctis, by contrast, lacks in these areas at the beginning of the story - hence the journey he's on to follow in her footsteps both literally and figuratively and reach her at that level using her guidance, support and example to become the man and the King he's meant to be.

These disparities are intentional. A deliberate choice to enhance their Yin and Yang dynamic and encourage Noctis' much needed growth but, despite their surface level differences, they are and could clearly be very compatible. They have always gotten along very well, showcase a deep level of respect and affection for each other, have grown up together through their consistent communication and truly know and love each other despite said differences and not even seeing each other in person (you don't eagerly and consistently write to someone for 12 years and still not know anything about each other). Getting to interact in person would only further enhance an already strong foundation, not hinder it and their minimal differences would help balance and enhance each other. And yes, they'd have amazing chemistry, let's be real.

For example, it's easy to determine that Luna would be a calm and encouraging presence that Noctis desperately needs - a literal beacon of Light in his life. He harbors a great deal of anxiety about his duties, calling and even his wedding with her and just being around her and assured by her warm smile and comforting words would have done wonders to relax and assuage his worries. Her presence would also help to bring out more maturity in Noctis and naturally coax the gentleman in him to the surface as he tries to be the man and husband she deserves. When Noctis speaks to or about Luna, he generally shows a softer, more caring side of himself that contrasts the 'rougher', more guarded quality he can display around others at times. He could finally drop the nonchalant façade he uses as a shield and just be himself as there is no reason to hide his true self around Luna, who already knows him so well and will not judge or mock him.

Unlike Noctis, Luna doesn't have the luxury of friends her age she can be herself with. Reuniting with him would no doubt encourage her to drop her guard as well and remind her of their time together when she was her younger, more carefree self and the person she wants to be: a normal woman who finally has someone by her side who sees the real her beyond being the Oracle. She's not just Lady Lunafreya, she's also Luna, a girl who wants a life outside of duty with the man she loves and he's the only person who sees her that way. Luna longs for her other half - an equal at her side rather than someone merely to lead.

"I have little to offer a King other than the voice afforded the Oracle. Nevertheless, and I'm afraid he might find this foolish, but to be together with Noctis again - even if only for a short while - it would mean the world to me. I do not seek to guide him, merely to stand beside him." - Luna

Like Yin and Yang, they complement and balance each other to grow and become the best and truest version of themselves. Luna encourages Noctis to mature and relax and Noctis would allow her to be less refined and remind her of the woman she is beneath the titles and duties that have dominated her life. They'd give each other exactly what the other needs and provide a special bond they can't find with anyone else. Though Noctis' friends help him along his journey, the burden of his fate is a weight only Luna understands. They are on this path together and no one else can truly know what that feels like save for the other.

This is another reason why their relationship is so important, as it allows us to flesh out their characters more and add depth by highlighting a facet of their personalities that we wouldn't otherwise see. Having romantic rather than platonic feelings for each other also heightens every aspect of the story: the tragedy of their circumstances, the longing to be together and the overall satisfaction at the end when they can finally be together again.

FOREVER BOUND

Since the day they met, Noctis and Luna became a huge part of each other's lives and formed a bond both sought to hold onto. Felt a deep connection to their spiritual counterpart and amiss in each other's absence as if unconsciously seeking their other half. When Luna dies, Noctis loses a part of himself, and the blow is understandably devastating. They came so close to being together and were torn apart once again, their previous separation taking a new and even more tragic form. But though Luna is far, she is not gone as, according to Ravus, even in death her spirit remains tethered to the world, unable to truly pass on until Noctis' mission is complete - further proof as to how connected their fated roles are. However, it's their love for each other, not their callings that truly tether them and, just as before, they are determined to still be together someday no matter what.

"Luna, you and I will be together again someday, I promise." - Noctis

The element of yearning that permeates their relationship is maintained now through the repeated motif of Noctis reaching for her, both still desperate for connection. Beyond heightening the inherent tragedy that lies at the heart of their star-crossed lovers dynamic, I believe these near misses are not meant to be cruel, but to further prove that, as much as Noctis wants to, he has not really "reached" Luna yet. He still has a lot of growth to achieve before he can truly become her equal and they can become one. If Luna represents essentially all that he needs to become, then reuniting and becoming one with her translates to him finally achieving that as well, which is why it's withheld until he's completed his arc. It also, obviously, makes them finally being able to touch in the end even more satisfying.

MARRIAGE

As a huge element of this story is about Noctis and Luna uniting in more ways than one, what better way to show that than through marriage? As marriage can be defined as two individuals joining in a permanent covenant that unites them into one flesh, so the marriage between Noctis and Luna was not only an effective catalyst to the story, but also a brilliant way to continue to reflect the idea of them becoming whole again through each other which serves a huge narrative, thematic and symbolic function. This story is not only about Noctis literally following in Luna's footsteps, seeking her to not only be reunited with her, but also united in marriage - the blending of Yin and Yang. Two halves of a whole seeking and yearning for each other finally becoming one which is only achieved in the end after Noctis has completed his arc and truly becomes her equal.

Though they may not have physically married in life, their spiritual marriage in the afterlife further proves not only how much they love and want to be together, but also symbolizes that they are truly and fully bonded now. Even the transformed logo at the end of the game serves to show this. Where once Luna was alone, now Noctis finally joins her at last. Finally equal. Finally whole. Finally one.

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this, please reblog and/or like and check out my #ffmeta and #ffedit tag for more!

[talonabraxas]

Yin-Yang Mantra Mandala

The yin-yang symbol (also known as the Tai Chi symbol) consists of a circle divided into two halves by a curved line. One half of the circle is black, typically representing the yin side; the other is white, for the yang side. A dot of each color is situated near the center of the other’s half. The two halves are thus intertwining across a spiral-like curve that splits the whole into semicircles, and the small dots represent the idea that both sides carry the seed of the other.

The white dot in the black area and the black dot in the white area connote coexistence and unity of opposites to form a whole. The curvy line signifies that there are no absolute separations between the two opposites. The yin-yang symbol, then, embodies both sides: duality, paradox, unity in diversity, change, and harmony. The Tai chi symbol represents the interaction of two complete opposites: Light and Darkness, White and Black, Male and Female, etc… the list could go forever.

“om mani padme hum” the six syllables, om mani pad me hum, mean that in dependence on the practice of a path which is an indivisible union of method and wisdom, you can transform your impure body, speech, and mind into the pure exalted body, speech, and mind of a Buddha.

[maybe-im-dark]

Okay, so let’s talk about something that’s been on my mind since forever: how Victor Creed (Sabretooth) and Logan (Wolverine) are dressed throughout X-Men Origins: Wolverine and how it symbolizes so much more than just “good vs. evil.” Strap in, fam, because we're about to go DEEP. 💥

1. The Color Contrast: Black vs. White 🖤🤍

Have you noticed that Victor ALWAYS wears black in the movie, while Logan almost always rocks white or lighter colors? I mean, it’s not exactly subtle, but it’s not JUST about the whole “black = evil, white = good” trope. It’s so much more nuanced than that. Let’s break it down:

Victor in Black: Black is often associated with darkness, mystery, and destruction. It makes total sense for Victor because he represents Logan's feral, animalistic, and destructive side—the side that doesn’t hold back, that doesn’t care about morality or right and wrong. Victor embraces that darkness. He doesn’t hide from it, he OWNS it. He’s comfortable in it, and he doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what he is: ruthless, violent, and dangerous. But it’s also important to note that black is a color that absorbs everything, just like Victor absorbs all that negativity, that rage, and that darkness that Logan tries to suppress. 🖤

Logan in White: Now, Logan in white is interesting because, yeah, white represents purity, goodness, and heroism. But Logan? We KNOW he’s not some squeaky-clean hero. He’s been through war, trauma, and all the shades of gray in between. So, why white? It’s because he’s TRYING to be better. He’s striving to be more than just an animal, more than the weapon others see him as. He wears white as a form of defiance against his darker nature. It’s not about being good—it’s about aspiring to be good, to be more than just his instincts. It’s him holding onto that tiny flicker of humanity in the midst of all the blood and violence. 🤍

2. Victor as Logan’s Dark Reflection 🪞

Here’s where it gets even juicier. Victor isn’t just a villain. He’s not just Logan’s enemy. He’s literally the embodiment of everything dark that Logan could be if he stopped caring. Victor is the feral rage, the unrestrained violence, and the part of Logan that LOVES the fight. And that’s why Victor haunts Logan so much—because he represents what Logan is terrified of becoming. 🐺

When you see them fighting, it’s not just hero vs. villain. It’s Logan fighting himself. It’s him battling against that part of his soul that wants to give in to the rage, the bloodlust, and the sense of power that comes with being untamed and unrestrained. Victor is basically holding up a mirror and saying, “This is who you are, and you can’t run from it.” And that’s why it’s so important that they wear opposite colors because they’re two halves of the same whole. They are literally the darkness and light within Logan at war. 🌑🌕

3. The Yin and Yang Connection ☯️

I mean, let’s be real here—Victor and Logan are the literal embodiment of Yin and Yang. They balance each other out. You can’t have one without the other. And here’s the kicker: Logan NEEDS Victor. He needs that darkness to remind himself of what he’s fighting against, of why he’s trying to be good, why he’s trying to hold on to his humanity. Victor, on the other hand, needs Logan to have that contrast, to have a reason to keep pushing, to keep proving that embracing the darkness is the only way to survive.

4. The White Turning to Red 🔴

And here’s the most heartbreaking part: Logan’s white clothes are always getting covered in blood. It’s like the movie is screaming at us that no matter how hard he tries to be good, to be “pure,” the violence and bloodshed always find him. And isn’t that the ultimate struggle? You can fight your darkness all you want, but it’s always there, lurking just beneath the surface, waiting for you to slip up.

Victor doesn’t have that struggle. He’s at peace with his darkness, which, in a twisted way, gives him power over Logan. And that’s why Victor ALWAYS looks so calm, so confident, because he’s not fighting himself. He’s already made peace with who he is.

---

TL;DR: The black and white clothing in X-Men Origins: Wolverine isn’t just a lazy good vs. evil thing. It’s a visual representation of Logan’s internal struggle between light and darkness. Victor isn’t just Logan’s enemy; he’s the living embodiment of Logan’s darkest impulses, the side of him that craves violence and power. And Logan’s journey is about trying to find balance between that feral side and the part of him that still wants to be a good man.

So yeah, next time you watch the movie, pay attention to the colors, the symbolism, and what it really means about who Logan is, what he’s fighting against, and why Victor will always be a part of him. 🖤🤍

[tongues-and-teeth-and-reblogs]

Silly sketches I did like a week ago.

Idk but the way they’re framing Dark Cacao rn with the whole “a bunch of people broke in tried to my steal my (fake) treasure and called me a fake immortal” backstory for Mystic Flour combined with the whole yin/yang symbolism in that one frame from the trailer and the fact that she still seems to want what’s best for cookiekind added onto the fact that Dark Choco (a character about second chances and forgiveness) is showing up in BY book 4…. Idk makes me think that maybe she’s getting redeemed or something.

Not a serious theory or anything, I’m totally wrong but it’s fun to think about. The beast updates actually being about the 5 heroes Friendship is Magic-ing their way into helping the beasts like come to terms with their situation and learn to coexist with the two halves of their soul jam.

Maybe that could be what the “Awakened” states are- becoming the whole soul jam light thingy. Or maybe just accepting their place as a half. Like I said, not a serious prediction it’s just fun to think about.

[parkingdumpy]

I've been thinking a lot recently about the ways the concept of yin and yang were incorporated into the the sf3 twins' characterization n stuff, and I've been trying to include that idea into my hcs too

yin is supposed to be retractive and passive, which makes a lot of sense for yun, who's canonically less into fighting and more doing it for the love of the game. I always imagined that he trains less for this reason. he's just content where he is, as long as he's powerful enough to protect hong kong

but yang is described as active, expansive, and repelling, which fits a lot with him as a character. he's the more driven one of the two, and the motivation behind that drive is also expansive in nature; he wants to match/surpass his brother's skills. But he also has the desire to stand out in comparison to yun, just as yang repels from yin.

another aspect of the concept that I find really interesting in the twins is the idea that there is always yin within yang and yang within yin (the dots in the yin-yang symbol). yes, yang is generally the active brother, but he's also more level-headed and is the one following around yun while he gets into trouble. and yun is passive, but he also instigates more fights, he's flashy and attention-seeking. They're both pretty flashy and cocky, but yang has more of an air of nonchalance to him

and the idea of yin and yang being two opposite halves of one greater whole lines up with the way I perceive the two too, I love them both so much individually and they have their own likeable traits, but I think the most interesting and compelling aspect of them is how they play off of one another, their relationship with and feelings towards each other, and the comparison (subtilely and not so subtilely) suggested between them.

I love playing up these dichotomies between the twins whenever I write/think about them, its super important to me that they each have these vastly different perspectives and behavioural habits despite being raised together in the same city with the same family their whole lives. I think that naturally with them being so close, they're both used to each other's behaviour, but they understand less of exactly why their brother acts the way they do. I find that a lot of the conflict that naturally starts brewing between them whenever I write and think about them is fundamentally born from any inability to engage with and understand each other's unique perspective, and I find that really interesting to work with

im not rlly sure how to end this little ramble lol but I think the twins are much deeper and more interesting than people give them credit for ... !!

[sthaboutlove]

I've never understood the whole Naruto - yang=active, Sasuke - yin=passive thing. Because if you think about it Naruto was never more active in their relationship than Sasuke was. Sure, he chased Sasuke because he was trying to save him, but if the positions were reversed, Sasuke would have been trying to save Naruto just as hard.

Their friendship started because of Sasuke and his actions, Sasuke was the first one to call Naruto his closest friend and even the vote2 confession happened because Sasuke kept demanding answers from Naruto. And he was also the initiator of almost all of their fights. I don't see how Naruto is more active in their relationship other than the "I'll save Sasuke" thing.

In addition, the yin yang symbolism was used by kishimoto multiple times before sns:

Kishimoto used it with Hinata and neji, and, as you can see, Hinata is yang.

With danzo and hiruzen

With two halves of kurama

In all of these cases yin-yang is used to emphasize the darkness-light symbolism. So why should it mean anything else with Sasuke and Naruto? Not all traits associated with yin and yang apply to sns. If you look at their normal interactions Sasuke isn't as passive as some of you describe him.

[completeoveranalysis]

[1]

And here we are at xxxHolic Chapter 91!

As usual it’s completely gorgeous. I particularly enjoy the sakura blossoms in the cage that Himawari is holding as her and Watanuki both smile politely at the camera. Because that’s fascinating. 

Like, is that a stand in for memories of Yuuko, since those blossoms were falling when she disappeared? Are Himawari and Watanuki carefully guarding their memories of her existence as they wait for her return? 

Are they indicative of the fate of the Sakuras, who seem to constantly be trapped into circumstances beyond their control? Perhaps it’s a sign of the NEW Sakura who replaced Yuuko - the new person now residing in the cage that Yuuko once lived in? Trapped in a gap in reality and not able to exist in the same way as before?

Or is it a symbol of Watanuki? He’s the offspring of a Sakura - and the branch in the cage is an offshoot of a sakura tree - but cut off, and kept separate from the tree. He too is trapped in an inbetween place, not really able to leave the adjacent-to-reality places he exists in, but like the flowers on the tree branch he is thriving now all the same. 

And if you really want to dive a bit deeper than necessary you could say that the little loop on the top of the cage perfectly aligns with the overlapping fabric behind it, in a way that might be a slight callback to the yin-yang that is the shape of Watanuki's/Syaoran's soul? And having that adorn the cage that keeps sakura trapped within is a very fun idea to play with.

Shall we go DEEPER?

The darker fabric of Himawari's kimono has a pattern of repeated circles, and then one in he middle splits into two.

And the idea of "one becoming two" is at the heart of xxxHolic as a whole, both with Watanuki himself and also the Egg. And here, where the circle seems to split and the two separate halves go in different directions matches what happened with Lava Lamp and Watanuki.

At a stretch you could also apply that idea to the tassle that hangs off the bottom of the cage. Which has it's own meaning, but visually here it ALSO begins with a circle at the top before splitting into two identical but separate tassels below. Which is fun! Possibly reading too much into it? Absolutely! But I'm keeping it.

Either way, it’s interesting that none of the flower patterns here overlap with any real flowers, which has been the theme for quite a lot of the other chapter covers lately. The visible space of real and unreal overlapping is no longer present. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see if it comes back.

[celestialastronmy]

Max and Chloe are two halves of a whole, completing and complementing each other like yin and yang, their personalities acting as both a mirror and a counterbalance. In their relationship, we see their differences and similarities, creating a fascinating dynamic, contributing significantly to the depth of their bond.

Max, the quieter of the two, is thoughtful, cautious, and introverted. She has a contemplative nature, preferring to observe and analyze situations before acting. Max is a keen observer, capturing the world in photographs - a symbolism of her tendency to view life from the sidelines. Her introversion leads her to internalize her feelings, often creating a wall between her and the rest of the world.

In contrast, Chloe is loud, impulsive, and extroverted. She is a whirlwind of emotions, expressing her feelings without filter, a trait that sometimes leads her into trouble. She is the action to Max's contemplation, the spoken word to Max's silent thought. Her rebellious streak and her constant need for adventure often push Max out of her shell, forcing her to live in the moment rather than observing it from a distance.

Though these differences are stark, they are also the fulcrum of their relationship. Chloe's impulsivity often drags Max into situations she would never voluntarily walk into, forcing Max to face her fears, grow, and evolve. Max, on the other hand, acts as Chloe's anchor, grounding her when her emotions threaten to spiral out of control. She is the voice of reason in Chloe's chaotic world, providing stability and a reminder of consequences.

While their differences balance them, their similarities draw them closer. Both Max and Chloe are dealing with their share of grief and loss - Max with her guilt over abandoning Chloe and Chloe with the grief of losing her father and Max's sudden departure. This shared pain becomes a silent bond between them, a thread that ties them together. They understand each other's sorrow, providing a safe space for each other to grieve and heal.

Furthermore, their shared history and mutual understanding allow them to accept each other's flaws. Max doesn't judge Chloe's rebellious streak, knowing it's a result of the pain she's been through. Similarly, Chloe understands Max's introversion and fear of confrontation, always pushing her to break boundaries but also being there to catch her when she falls.

In essence, Max and Chloe's relationship is a beautiful interplay of contrasts and similarities. Their differences act as a balance, keeping each other from going too far off their respective edges. Their similarities, on the other hand, act as a magnet, drawing them closer and creating a profound understanding.

This dynamic contributes significantly to the depth of their relationship. It is in their differences that they find growth, in their similarities that they find comfort, and in their acceptance of each other that they find love. Max and Chloe's relationship is a testament to the power of understanding, acceptance, and balance.

[elliotsupremeangel]

𖹭⊙♌︎ The Husband and Wife of the Zodiac: Leo & Cancer ♋︎☾︎𖹭

In astrology, Leo and Cancer are often considered the Husband and Wife, the King and Queen of the Zodiac. This distinction comes from their ruling celestial bodies, the Sun and the Moon.

Leo and Cancer are the only two zodiac signs ruled by the Sun and Moon, making our connection unique, being the only luminaries. They are also known as the Mother and Father of the Zodiac—Cancer, the nurturing, protective mother, and Leo, the strong, guiding father. Together, they represent the balance of caregiving and leadership, emotion and strength.

The Sun and Moon have always symbolized divine balance, the dance of opposites that creates harmony. In astrology, Leo, ruled by the Sun, and Cancer, ruled by the Moon, embody this duality. Together, they create a beautiful balance of action and receptivity, of light and shadow.

This cosmic interplay mirrors our twin flame journey, where Elliot (Leo) and I (Cancer), seemingly opposite, are actually two halves of the same whole.

The balance of Sun and Moon, fire and water, yin and yang—this is the essence of our twin flame connection. It is not just about love, but about transformation, awakening, and the fusion of divine energies. Just as the Sun never ceases to shine upon the Moon, Elliot and I are eternally connected, destined to find each other and complete the cycle of cosmic balance.

[tsams-and-co-memes]

(Going off of what you said in this post: https://www.tumblr.com/tsams-and-co-memes/755831074110767104/so-what-are-your-thoughts-on-the-monty-gator-and?source=share)

———

You know how pieces is symbolized by two fish?

Well, what if Frank is one fish, and Francis is the other one?

What if it’s like gemini?

Castor and Pollux fuse to make gemini, so what if Frank and Francis fuse to make Pieces? Like a yin yang kinda thing. Positive and negative becoming one to create a balance. Frank deals with negative things, Francis deals with positive things, and Pieces deals with both.

This could be supported by how both of them are. They both work with fantasy and reality in a sense. Though we don’t know too much about Francis yet.

Frank works with fantasy, aka the mind, from his use of causing nightmares to give warnings. But he also works with reality by wanting his friends to conquer their fears and do better in the world around them.

Francis works with fantasy, aka the mind, due to him trying to encourage positive thinking and being happy. Also trying to get Puppet and Eclipse to imagine the daycare in a team building exercise. We don’t have much for how he works with reality, except maybe encouraging others to smile.

With all of this in mind, imagine if they get introduced to each other, and have to act like they don’t know each other, like they’re not two halves of a whole, since them somehow knowing each other might not make sense to the others.

I was thinking about that too, actually

Just. Pisces and Gemini are the only two signs that have two parts. With Gemini, is a set of twins (Castor and Pollux), and with Pisces, it's two fish that are swimming in opposite directions. In a sense, those fish are opposites to each other, just like Frank and Francis are

While it'd be really cool if they were a pair and meant to work together (I seriously love the idea of them being the stereotypical mischievous twins we see in media sometimes. If you've seen OHSHC, you know what kind of mischievous twins I'm thinking of), I also. Can't help but think Undertale AU stuff. Namely Dreamtale, because that has Dream and Nightmare, with Dream being the guardian of positivity and Nightmare being his twin who works with negativity

Above everything, I'm hoping Frank and Francis don't have a Dream and Nightmare kinda relationship (constantly fighting, with the negative twin always hunting down and trying to kill the positive one). They're just two Silly Weird Guys, and they should at least be able to bond a little over that

It'll be interesting if we get to see Francis more in the future, since we might get to see more of his abilities and things and draw some more comparisons between him and Frank. Beyond that, it'd be really cool to see if they could merge or not. If they can, maybe it's only their merged form that looks more like an astral body and less like something that belongs on earth

[talonabraxas]

Yin-Yang Mantra Mandala

The yin-yang symbol (also known as the Tai Chi symbol) consists of a circle divided into two halves by a curved line. One half of the circle is black, typically representing the yin side; the other is white, for the yang side. A dot of each color is situated near the center of the other’s half. The two halves are thus intertwining across a spiral-like curve that splits the whole into semicircles, and the small dots represent the idea that both sides carry the seed of the other.

The white dot in the black area and the black dot in the white area connote coexistence and unity of opposites to form a whole. The curvy line signifies that there are no absolute separations between the two opposites. The yin-yang symbol, then, embodies both sides: duality, paradox, unity in diversity, change, and harmony. The Tai chi symbol represents the interaction of two complete opposites: Light and Darkness, White and Black, Male and Female, etc… the list could go forever.

“om mani padme hum” the six syllables, om mani pad me hum, mean that in dependence on the practice of a path which is an indivisible union of method and wisdom, you can transform your impure body, speech, and mind into the pure exalted body, speech, and mind of a Buddha. Om mane padme hum (Hail the jewel in the lotus) is a six syllable invocation mantra of Avalokiteshvara; one who is invoked as the savior and the protector from danger. One who recites this Mantra, will be saved from all dangers and will be protected.