#and their continued cultural appropriation and stereotyping

[maplewozapi]

Hey! I have a question if that's ok with you. I am White British but I am interested in Native American history (I think it's super cool and I love learning about cultures different to my own). However someone I was talking to about it (a bookseller who I bought a book abt native history off) said that i'm committing cultural appropriation by being interested in non-white history. Is it cultural appropriation for a white person to be interested in the history of non-white people, because if it is I will totally stop being interested in it. It's just sad because I find it really interesting, but i totally don't want to perpetrate racism :(

Studying others history is not at all cultural appropriation and not learning can actually perpetuate ignorance and stereotypes believed about a group. And if someone is stopping you from learning history I’d say that’s an underlining way of them trying to get you not educated. I mean there is overstepping when trying to learn our ceremonies and religious practices without permission and I even say it’s odd to do so in another land that doesn’t know those practices.

When reading literature about native history I’d try to stay with books with native authors or help from tribal members and the tribe it’s self whether than one individual member. Many anthropologist would only interview one person and take their beliefs has everyone’s and cause false information. I’d even limit the publishing dates to the later 2000s, so you can find more nuanced literature. (Some of these book below are fiction but show the Native American condition)

I’d think you find a great overview with "indigenous history of the United States", it’s a great introduction to the head space of ethnology of native people has been and recorrecting it.

I would also say to not limit yourself to your idea of "Native Americans" you’ll find most literature follows plains tribes, and instead I’d recommend you research all indigenous peoples spanning north to South America.

Much of the literature you may run into are written from out of context accounts from expeditionists, or missionaries/priests and it’s important not to take everything at face value. I’d just suggest reading accounts from native people before try to describe biased and mistranslated literature.

💖I’d also keep in mind native history is still continuing to today 💖

#books #native books #native american #indigenous #ask

[slayingfiction]

Questions to ask your alpha/beta readers

I thought I would put together a master list of all the questions to ask your alpha and beta reader to help you improve your story.

You can choose to ask questions every chapter, every few chapters or after the whole book. This list of questions will be more generic and all encompassing for you to tailor to your needs.

Reminder: Beta readers typically receive a completed and polished version of your story. They give feedback on any last improvements based on the reader’s perspective. Alpha readers read your story or manuscript before it’s completed, usually a rough draft. Alpha readers are best if they also have some writing experience to give reader and writer feedback.

Choose some of the following questions to ask your readers:

Start:

When did you first feel the story was truly starting?

Do you like how the story started? If not, why?

Do you find characters were introduced slow enough to learn them all?

Did you find settings, different languages, and cultural differences were introduced slowly enough to not be confusing or overwhelming?

Were there any moments you found yourself going back over old exposition just to understand what was happening?

When, if at all, did you find yourself being pulled into the book?

Did the first sentence grab your attention?

Did the first few pages draw you into the story?

Did you find the opening paragraph/page interesting enough to continue reading?

Characters:

What do you like about the MC? What don’t you like? Can you name at least one relatable trait between yourself and the MC?

How did you feel about the character(s)’s growth from the start to finish of the story? Did you find there was enough? Was it believable?

Are the MC’s motivations and goals clear and strong enough?

Did you feel the MC’s fears, hopes, excitement, passions, etc.?

Did you get confused between the characters?

Were the characters believable?

Are there any characters you wish were more interesting? Why and how?

Do you feel each supporting character had their own motivations and contributed to the plot?

Are there any characters that seem cliché, underdeveloped, or stereotypical? If so, why?

Were the character relationships believable?

Did the romantic relationships build naturally, or did it feel forced?

Are there any character names that were too difficult to read or sounded too similar to others?

Were there any parts where the characters seemed to be acting out of character?

Who was your favorite character?

Which character, if any, did you wish was more present?

Which character do you care for the least?

What are your thoughts/feelings on the MC’s character arc?

Do you feel like the antagonists and/or villain is just as fleshed out and relatable as the MC?

If you had to remove one character, who would it be, and why?

Which character would you like to meet, and why?

Did you hope or dread any character relationships?

Are there any characters you found annoying and frustrating?

What are your general thoughts and feelings about the MC or supporting characters?

Which character did you find least developed?

Plot:

Which moments in the book did you find the most suspenseful?

Were there any moments in the book you found boring, lagging, or uneventful and unnecessary?

Did you find the pacing to suit the story well? Are there any areas you found moved too fast or too slow?

Was there ever a time you felt like you weren’t excited or intrigued enough to want to continue?

Did you find any plot holes? Any discrepancies in timeline, characters, descriptions, or other details?

Were there any scenes you found did not further the plot at all?

Are there any scenes or events you found to be too long or too short?

Did you find all explanations and revelations came out naturally and at appropriate times?

What was your favourite scene in the book? Why?

What was your least favourite scene in the book? Why?

Are there any chapters you found lacked conflict?

Did the action scenes make sense as you read them? Did you understand how they came to that action scene (or did they feel random)?

Where there any moments or scenes that made you feel emotional? Happy, sad, cringy and disgusted, etc.

Do you find the plot moved logically and naturally between scenes and chapters?

Are there any moments you felt detached or pulled out of the story? When and why?

Are there any events or scenes you found confusing? Either what was happening or how the characters came to that point?

Where you surprised by the plot twist?

Settings:

Which setting in the book was the clearest for you to visualize? Which do you remember the best?

Did you find the setting interesting, with vivid and real description?

Were there any scenes you thought lacked description?

Were there any moments you thought there was too much exposition, or not enough?

Did you find there were moments you didn’t know where the characters were unless stated?

Do you find the culture and historical events are realistic and add depth to the story?

Is there any exposition you found unnecessary? Are there any moments you wish you had more exposition?

Did all technology and science, or magic, make sense or seem believable?

Was there ever too much or too little description?

Dialogue:

Did you find that each character had their own personal voice when speaking?

Are there times where you couldn’t figure out who was talking solely based on how they spoke?

Is there any dialogue that sounded unnatural?

Could you see what the characters were doing and where they were while talking?

Was there any dialogue that seemed to not fit well with the story?

Was there any dialogue that you thought had too much exposition or explanation?

Did you find the dialogue kept your interest?

Ending:

Did you find the ending to be satisfying and emotionally fulfilling?

Are there any questions you had left after the story ended? (Mostly for stand-alone)

What did you hate most about the ending?

Did you find the ending believable?

Did you feel the tension building to the climax?

Was the climax worth the read, or did it feel weak?

Do you feel the ending came on naturally, or did it feel forced or rushed?

Did the book feel too short or too long?

General:

Were there parts where you found yourself skimming?

Which parts of the story did you find it easy to put the book down?

At what moment did you decide you wanted to finish the book? (If not DNF)

What are some of your favourite lines/quotes from the book?

Do you have any predictions for what you think will come next? (Good for chapters or end of book)

Is there something you hope will happen?

Is there anything you hoped would happen and was sad when it didn’t?

Did you find the map and glossary helpful? Is there anything you think would be beneficial to add, such as terms or names?

Are there any moments or scenes you found ethically and socially problematic and unacceptable.

Were there any moments in the story that made you stop and think?

Were you able to identify the story themes? Did you find the themes well developed throughout the story?

Did you think about the story when you weren’t reading it? If so, what were your thoughts?

Were there times during the story where you felt description was told instead of shown?

Does this book make you feel the same as other books in the genre when reading?

Is there anything you really enjoy from this genre that you found lacking in this story?

Did you find the story kept your attention with enough action, conflict, intrigue, and tension?

Do you find the story or writing style like other books you have read?

Are there any moments you found confusing, irritating, annoying or frustrating?

Are there any moments in the story you thought, “this could/would never happen”?

Did you have any questions after reading the book?

What are your general thoughts and feelings about the story?

Is there anything you wish there was more or less of?

What do you think were the best/ strongest aspects of this book?

What do you think were the worst/ weakest aspects of this books?

How would you describe this book to a friend?

Would you recommend this story to someone?

How likely/ eager are you to read the next book in the series?

Chapter specific

On a scale from 1-5, how much did you enjoy this chapter?

On a scale from 1-5, how eager are you to read the next chapter?

What predictions do you have for the next chapter?

What do you hope will happen next?

Please keeping in mind: Don't let another writer tell you what to change or how they would write it. You are the writer, and any changes are your decision. This feedback is only to give you an idea on which areas to improve.

*Alpha and Beta readers should be readers in the same genre that you write. People who mostly read mystery will not be good a/b readers for a romance novelist, or any mismatch. If you write romance, find a/b readers who love to read romance. Otherwise, any advice they give may not be as valuable or useful as you hope.*

If you have other questions you think would be useful to ask your readers, message me or add them in the comments so our list is comprehensive.

Happy Writing!

#writing community #writing advice #beta reader #alpha reader #writing reference #long post #creative writing #tumblr writers #writing tips #writer #female writers #wip stuff #writblr #fiction #writing process

[project-sekai-facts]

Here's a fun little Project Sekai fact! Almost all of your faves have appropriated other cultures as costumes and some have even done blackface. If you're supporting this game and refusing to make a meaningful statement about it beyond "b-b-but i said it was bad! 🥺", you are fucking racist.

You're either anti-racist, or you're a pro-seka blog. Choose one. You can't be both.

Basically everything is problematic and actually I have criticised the cultural appropriation and racism present in the game multiple times, at no point have I refused to acknowledge it (and you’re not the first person to send an anon in). You can play the game and be anti-racist actually it’s called being critical of the media you consume and having social awareness, we’ve been over this. Everything is problematic you probably like problematic media too.

Yeah the game did revival my dream and that was fucking racist, the costumes are stereotypical and they didn’t research into any specifc native culture they just wanted to make something that would get them money. it’s not princess mononoke put the trained costumes next to each other, the trained costumes are heavily stylised to look "pretty and fashionable" and forego accuracy. I’m aware of that, I’ve said this before multiple times but you wouldn’t know that because you just randomly came here to send me this message.

Then there's also the kamikou sports fes set. Luka's qipao is very obviously altered for the sake of fanservice which is just so wrong, do not sexualise other cultures for money. Rui's I think is meant to be some sort of military hanfu? But quite stylised, which again for someone outside the original culture to stylise a traditional outfit just is a no-go because you will probably get things wrong. Mizuki's outfit seems to be based on Qi-lolita and there's a whole thing surrounding that about whether you should wear it if you aren't chinese.

and then there's the island panic cards which are both orientalist. yes, not just the boys, the girls too. the outfits aren't based on any specific culture and just mishmash different swana and south asian cultures and stereotypes together to make something that looks "exotic".

If you notice a recurring thing is that all of these are in some way wxs related, and wonder why that is, it’s because they’re the theatre unit. They wear costumes, these are just cultures being appropriated as stage outfits, because the devs don’t care they just want a quick bit of money.

all of these are horribly common in idol games and gacha games, not just project sekai, and it's important to recognise the problems rather than just blindly consuming it. If it makes money, devs will continue to include ca, recognise that.

and yeah puchiseka episode 6 happened at no point have i ever denied that. it should have never happened but it did and at the very least the fandom was able to rally together and get sega to take it down. even after they did that sega and clpl should still be held accountable for even letting it be released. while they didn't make the episode, that was entirely handled by an external company (who should also be held accountable for their actions - we're never getting a second season for a reason), sega still released it knowing full well the contents. it wasn't ganguro like people said it was extremely clearly based on a very racist and crude interpretation of african tribes, and for part of a joke no less. It was disgusting. And it’s not ganguro like how people defend it; ganguro is part of the gyaru subculture and the outfits in that episode were not that. there is no defence for what happened. at the very least, it was impressive that the fandom called out the episode and actually got staff to listen and learn. that doesn't happen in other games, and we managed to do it again with rmd. the fanbase is calling the game out and actually educating staff. It’s just critical consumption - fans of the media were able to recognise that the episode was racist and correctly called out management with enough of a voice to make staff correct their mistakes. They apologised, it’s not my apology to accept, and I still hold them accountable for the fact it even happened.

This probably all makes me sound like a white saviour, and I don’t want to speak over the people affected by this, but that’s what you wanted, isn’t it? You probably have me blocked already and never followed me in the first place, but if you really wanted to call out racism, then maybe you should’ve sent this to blogs that do turn a blind eye to the flaws in this game, not one that calls them out. Why just me? Was it because of the username, because you’re not the first person to make that quip. I know you won’t see this anon, but a word of advice. Most media is problematic one way or another, you can enjoy something but still be aware of and acknowledge its problems. Project sekai is not made with the intent of encouraging or funding harmful behaviour, yet it still includes some harmful content. Call it out, educate staff and tell them not to do it again, they listened once they can do it again.

#asks #if anyone wants to add then you’re welcome to

[omelas-ageplayer]

one important thing to know about baeddels is that the group that started reclaiming "baeddel" first was already hated and stigmatized by much of the site. they formed a small clique around 2010, which grew into several cliques by the time unobject posted the origin of the word "baeddel" in 2013.

prior to 2016 marxist, communist, and anarchist theory was nowhere near as mainstream on this site as it is now. from 2009 maybe up until 2016 fandom was by far the biggest topic of conversation on tumblr. politics generally extended to arguing about representation, stereotypes, and cultural appropriation.

so when a group of angry, socially maligned, and neurodivergent trans women startrd digging in to different kinds of complex leftist and post leftist thought the language of how they spoke about things like nihilism or insurrection or class was used as evidence that they were imherently bad, dangerous, and irredeemable. and that harassment pushed some into wanting trans lesbian separatism, much like the current wave of transmisogyny is pushing trans women to seclude themselves more and is making them more defensive.

now, once unobject, who is latina, which i point out because people always paint baeddels as all being white, unearthed the term she and others started identifying with it, and unobject herself stated that she would not gatekeep the term.

below are some relevant screenshots:

i know there was a post in which unobject said she wouldn't gatekeep who reclaimed baeddel, and i remember the tag she put being "no vanguards sisters ♡", but i can't find it. i think i took a screenshot of it months ago, i'l have to try and dig it up as soon as i can.

in any case, the word baeddel "broke containment" as we would put it now, and started being used by trans women outside the three or four cliques who started using it initially. however, because it had the stigma of being associated with trans women who were already widely hated the stigma spread as well. so using "baeddel" in a url or as an identity was used by transmisogynists as evidence that a trans woman was a bad, predatory person and an acceptable target. thus the word came full circle, as it started to be used as a way to label trans women who could be attacked and ostracized with no repercussions.

the use of "baeddel" as a way to deny trans women help and community has continued well past the existence of the original milieu, and ironically its the insistence on using that term to harm tma people that's getting more and more of them to identify with it. much like reclaiming "dyke" or "fag" in the face of a deeply homophobic society, people are reclaiming "baeddel" for a second time in the face of a deeply transmisogynist society.

#i hope this is coherent and what you were looking for #🌟🌟🌟 #i feel like there is more to say but i'm not actually sure what this just feels very surface levek

[robotpussy]

i was just about to watch this video by Cheyenne Lin

Avatar and the Wh*te Imagination (or lack thereof)

about the limits of white imagination and how evident it is in the Avatar movies, and it just reminded me that james cameron worked with an ethnomusicologist, Dr Wanda Bryant, to make music for the na'vi because he wanted something that "would sound like nothing we’ve ever heard on earth" then he decided what was made was too otherworldly and decided that their music should just be what white people would call "alien" and ethnic, aka, whatever music exists in African, Asian and Native American cultures (and that was the final result).

Originally there were many influences coming from all over the globe, but when Cameron listened to the demos, he claimed it was too recognisable as well as too 'weird', albeit for white people and just pushed for a more 'down to earth' version. Avatar is evidence of the continuation of generalized exoticism and stereotyping still being a driving force in Hollywood

[IMAGE ID: A screenshot of a segment from the journal entry written by ethnomusicologist, Dr Bryant discussing the process of creating the music for the avatar films that reads:

"In our initial phone conversation, Horner asked me to find unusual musical sounds that “no one has heard before,” by which he really meant sounds not readily recognizable by the average American movie-goer as belonging to a specific culture, time period, or geographical location"

/END ID]

[IMAGE ID: A screenshot of a paragraph from the journal entry written by ethnomusicologist, Dr Bryant discussing the process of creating the music for the avatar films that reads:

"Through a process of elimination we came up with 25 workable possibilities, including examples of Swedish cattle herding calls, folk dance songs from the Naga people of Northeast India, Vietnamese and Chinese traditional work songs, greeting songs from Burundi, Celtic and Norwegian medieval laments, Central African vocal polyphony, Persian tahrir, microtonal works by Scelsi, the Finnish women’s group Vârttinä, personal songs from the Central Arctic Inuit, and brush dances from northern California. None was an exact blueprint of what we were seeking, but each had at least one interesting musical device or characteristic that we could utilize. In some cases, it was a timbre that we might hope to mimic; in other cases, it may have been a song structure, an ornamentational style, or interesting intonation."

/END ID]

[IMAGE ID: A screenshot of a paragraph from the journal entry written by ethnomusicologist, Dr Bryant discussing the process of creating the music for the avatar films that reads:

"Horner then met with Jim Cameron for his input on our musical ideas. Cameron is a very hands-on director and wants to be kept in the loop about all major decisions. Most of the ideas we presented were dismissed by Cameron out of hand, rejected with appropriately blue language as either too recognizable (“Oh, that’s Bulgarian”) or just “too fucking weird!” Half a dozen examples were approved as possibilities."

/END ID]

You can read the full article here:

There is also a video by sideways that discusses this (if you don't want to read):

#avatar #avatar 2 #sorry for the long post i just.... its the avatar hater in me #i hate this racist alien franchise so much #ref #text #film #i wasnt sure whether to put any of this under a cut #but i dont think this is too long ill have to see when it posts #Youtube #music

[immortalarizona]

“They say looks can kill, and I might try.” — Taylor Swift, “Vigilante Shit”

an outfit for my beloved Wanda if she ends up going to the 2024 Hellfire Gala (if there is one at all tbh)!! I wasn't personally a fan of her 2023 look, so I decided to try my hand at designing a look of my own despite knowing jack shit about fashion. design breakdown, inspiration photos, and just general rambling under the cut :)

main inspo:

top row: left by REEM ACRA, right by unknown

middle row: sketches by Kevin Wada

bottom row: garments by Zita Moldovan (website)

--

hehe, this is the part where I ramble about my design process!! I will confess, it took me four full sketches before I finally managed to purge the "high fantasy fairy queen dress" brainrot from my mind and arrive at a concept that actually felt like Wanda. given that as of her 2023 solo run, she's a self-employed business owner, a twist on a suit felt appropriate!! it's elegant, it's dramatic, it's sexy, it's powerful, and it's also a garment that, like, real people could wear?? which, I know this is a comic book and she also has magic, but, like. girl deserves a fit that's also reasonably comfortable. girl deserves pockets (I didn't showcase them, but the pants absolutely have humongous magic pockets.) talking fabric, I will confess that I really don't know much, but I picture the red fabric being pretty thick silk and the black fabric possibly being velvet? the shoes are beaded pretty much all over with the same crystal material as the crown.

as I continued to refine my concept, I looked to Kevin Wada's 2015 redesign for Wanda's last solo run for more inspiration. that's how I arrived at concepts such as the use of beaded accessories, floral embroidery, and especially the plunging neckline. I also knew I wanted to pay homage to Wanda's heritage without being stereotypical, so I decided to look to Zita Moldovan, a Romani designer whose site is linked above, to see how she incorporated her culture into her work. (as an aside, there's this other dress from her Romany Dreams collection that I would LOVE to draw Wanda in at some point, but that was not this project. maybe soon.) the dress I included in my (very, very trimmed down) inspo board was my primary reference as I drew the pattern for the pant part of the pantsuit. (I attempted multiple versions where the pattern was in color, but it wound up looking really muddy, so I opted for the slightly more subtle version you see here.) the pose for the final piece doesn't showcase the epaulette well (or the crown pin, which was another reference to the Kevin Wada design), so here's a bonus sketch that came out of the "design" part of this whole project that shows them both better:

anyone who has followed my art knows that I generally draw my Wanda with a high ponytail, but I decided to spice things up and draw her with a half-up like she has circa Uncanny Avengers #27 (this is when she and Jericho are being so very sweet together). the golden hoop earrings are another thing I carried over from my general Wanda design, and the makeup is just a quick thing I came up with on the fly. it's not the spiciest, I know, but I decided there was enough going on elsewhere that she didn't need a crazy makeup look as well. the full-finger ring is specifically a reference to her very first appearance in X-Men #4, where she calls upon her power by pointing her right index finger. I thought it would be cool to accentuate that finger as a result!!

and there you have it--a tribute to Kevin Wada and Zita Moldovan from an artist who knows nothing about fashion but does have severe enough blorbo brainrot to attempt to design an outfit regardless :D

shoutout to @jookpubstock for once again enabling my shenanigans :)

#ari does art #marvel #scarlet witch #wanda maximoff #romani wanda maximoff #jewish wanda maximoff #alba flores as wanda maximoff #marvel fanart #hellfire gala #digital art #artists on tumblr

[larryatendoftheday]

This year I craved stories that transported me somewhere else. So in addition to my usual weakness for angst, I sought out fics with surprising plots and excellent world-building. These were the ones that really stuck with me. Thank you to these creators and to everyone who shares art or writing or creates fic rec lists. You have been and will continue to be a fantastic gift to so many. Thank you <3

Note: The fics in this list were published in many different years. They are not in a particular order. The main pairing is Louis/Harry unless otherwise noted.

Party Lines by nonsensedarling @absoloutenonsense Explicit | 25k | Phone Sex Operator

Several of my all time favorite fics are phone sex operator AUs, and this fic is an iconic addition because Louis isn’t even actually a phone sex operator. He’s pretending, and he gets attached. Full of sexy, sweet, and funny dialogue and the appropriate amount of suffering and uncertainty, this fic will transport you to an excellent alternate universe.

War Of Hearts by BoosBabycakes @boosbabycakes28 Explicit | 80 k | Enemies to Lovers / Non-traditional ABO

I live for a well-executed enemies to lovers arc, and this is it. Believable, sweet, funny, angsty, and oh so satisfying to read. Alpha Harry doesn’t fit his gender’s stereotypes, especially in private. His arch-nemesis Louis knocks on his dorm-room door in the middle of a pampering self-care night and sees the side of Harry that he keeps hidden. What follows is a fantastic gAyBO story about repressing, exploring, and accepting your true self. There is a strong cast of OT5 and related people that keep you laughing and believing. Honestly, I need to re-read this right now.

Men of Steel, Men of Power by Stria (Asia117) @nooradeservedbetter Explicit | 58k | Political Revolution / ABO

Get ready to be absolutely consumed by this parallel universe and the angst-ridden reality of Louis, pretend alpha and head of security, and Harry, feminine alpha and new-hire. There is enjoyable intrigue, mystery, crying, sex, political philosophizing, and some spy movie shit as Louis attempts to right wrongs and push back against those in power. OT5 pop up in surprising and satisfying ways. However, perhaps most notable to me was the attention to detail in how Louis deals with pretending to be a gender he is not. (Perhaps don’t read while in your gender dysphoria feels but do read to feel seen.)

what's left of my halo's black by LiveLaughLoveLarry @loveislarryislove Explicit | 22k | Friends with Benefits / Angst

If you love pain, this fic is for you. A heartbroken and emotionally damaged Louis manages his problems—such as being a wedding planner and the impact of his abusive ex--by secretly fucking his coworker Harry. It turns out this doesn’t actually solve his problems, though, and new issues emerge from what was supposed to be a simple friends-with-benefits arrangement.

turn me up by turnyourankle  Explicit | 3k | Hanky Code PWP | Louis/Luke Malak

I found this while searching for @1dhankyfest content, and I love it. There’s something about unabashed gay sex culture that revives my soul.

Paint Me In A Million Dreams by green_feelings @greenfeelings Mature | 112k | Fake Dating / Enemies to Lovers

Hollywood actor Harry Styles is gutted when the man he can’t stand gets the Scorsese role he wanted. It gets worse when their teams conspire to set them up in a fake relationship to promote the film. I read this fic in the first days of 2023, so the details are a bit blurry in my memory. I know I loved the enemies to lovers arc, the strong Ziam subplot, and Harry obsessing over his unavailable crush (which isn’t Louis). In my comment, I wrote, “My heart absolutely ached with the pining and angst, and the sexual tension was so palpable.”

Gonna Dream of How You ... by therogueskimo Explicit | 4k | PWP / Canon-compliant

This canon-based fic was so steamy and tender. Photos of Louis performing in a tanktop get Harry going. What follows is some long-distance edging and fun. It features soft Dom Louis and desperate Harry and just really hits all the right notes in my opinion.

Almost Misheard by tommokat @tommokat Teen and Up | 4k | Friends to Lovers / ABO

This is a comfort fic. It’s got hilarious fluff about best friends who realize what their inner alpha and omega knew all along. (The rest of the gang might be in on the secret too.) I’m almost amazed by fics that manage to pull me in with believable characters and storylines without any angst, and this one delivers on every front. You’ll be grinning the whole time.

Coax the Cold by MediaWhore @mediawhorefics Mature | 86k | Mermaid / Historical AU

Professor Tomlinson is fascinated by the occult. When a circus advertises a unique sea creature, he decides to go undercover as a janitor to get close. He plans to write the paper that will finally prove he was right about the existence of fantastical creatures. This author expertly builds the world of this fic – 1800s Britain, academia, and freak shows. I loved the believable cast of characters (OT5 and more!) and the stakes that are set, including the horrid antagonists.

fondre ton absence by scrunchyharry @scrunchyharry Teen and Up| 41k | Amnesia / Historical AU

Harry and Louis childhood best friends who grew up and discovered love together in a quiet village. Harry manages asthma and chronic illness that often leaves him homebound with his books, but Louis always keeps him company. Their simple life is turned upside down when Louis is drafted in WWI and does not return home. Then, when Harry finally finds him, Louis doesn’t remember anything. This story was a tearjerker but so beautifully written. I adored that portions of the story were told in letters and that Harry often referred to literary works. Bonus: This fic has amazing visuals by whenthebodiesspeak.

be a good boy, Harry by stretchmybones Explicit | 1k | PWP / Pet play

Harry wants to play, but Louis is busy watching football, so he asks Harry to wait. I haven’t stopped thinking about this domestic and sexy little slice of life since I read it in January of 2023. My comment said “simple and perfect,” and I still agree.

The Heart's Home by homosociallyyours @homosociallyyours Teen and Up | 10k | Squiddry

Someone wrote the Music for a Sushi Restaurant fic of my dreams. Half-man, half-squid, with the voice of an angel, Harry is quite the catch. Louis, an exhausted and lonely restaurant employee, is tasked with keeping an eye on the special find. This story was so entertaining and sweet. It filled me up with good vibes and left me happier than I started.  

~~~~

I always include my favorite fic that I published that year at the end of these lists. I didn’t publish much, but I really enjoyed this one.

In His Rightful Place by larryatendoftheday @larryatendoftheday Explicit | 2.7k | PWP

Harry reunites with Louis and gets to reclaim his role as the person who fucks his boyfriend best.

#favorite fics of 2023 #mine #fic recs #thank you all!!! <3

[alatismeni-theitsa]

Ancient Greek and Roman music Masterpost

As our national epic, the Odyssey, did I'll start from the middle. Please listen to the sound of medieval Greek music and then come back. It's an exercise, I command you!

Middle Ages Greek music is speculated to be "slowed down ancient Greek music"! 😁 So, take notes on that!

Christodoulos Halaris - Anthology of Byzantine Secular Music

(Christodoulos Halaris was a prominent Greek composer, researcher, and musicologist. He focused on secular Byzantine and traditional music, incorporating his extensive research into a solid and singular musical language.)

After your warm-up (and perhaps some confusion) let's get into what you came here to see.

What Ancient Greek and Roman Music Sounded Like - A Beginner's Introduction

Α fantastic introduction by a composer, musician, and researcher who calls himself:

OKAY, OKAY, HE IS FARYA FARAJI, YOU GOT ME.

So, this is going to be another excellent video where he spits facts. He gives a great impression of how ancient Greek and Roman music sounded like.

And no, they didn't sound like the watered-down (north)-eurocentric "ancient Greek music" on youtube videos you find. (who's surprised at this point, after all this Northwestern appropriation) Unless they are made by Farya Faraji because… the man knows his shit (and our shit 😂)

By the way, I called it "watered down", not because I believe western music is lame, but because the performers apply western rules to ancient Greek music, stripping it of all the Heterophonic complexity.

In the video above, you'll learn how the lyre should actually be played!!! And what instruments have been in continuous use in Greece for more than 2.000 years! And see all the ways our ancient and traditional music is more complex than Western music - such as Western music can be more complex than ours in other ways! (as also stated in the video)

And before you ask: Why does ancient Greek and Byzantine/traditional Greek music sound Oriental? Well, that's just your ear and biases and Hollywood stereotypes, my dear friend. See, these sounds are not (just) Oriental! They are originally Greek, too!

Many tunes and the way of singing the West associates today with the Middle East came from the Greek world (where these tunes are still in use, mind you) or other Mediterranean countries. That's not to say that Middle Eastern nations didn't have these scales and twirls for a long time - because they did. That's their ancient music, too.

Please see the video below to make more sense of my ramblings:

The Greco-Roman Influence on Middle-Eastern Music

All of Farya's videos have their sources in the description so make sure to check them out!

Now you can better enjoy the Epitaph of Sekeilos you heard in the first Middle Ages video! You can also listen to another great version by Farya, where he uses the above ancient Greek principles he mentioned in his video. That's why his version actually feels fun to listen to, thank god! (Of course Chalaris also orchestrates the Epitaoh in an excellent way)

Personal commentary: I am happy to share Farya's work online because he put into words why reconstructions of ancient Greek music online don't sound Greek at all. Greeks have a hard time relating to it because... that's not our folk music. They sound boring like Chopin playing piano when he was 3 years old. (But by now you know why! 😉)

Of course, ancient and traditional Greek music are not identical and no one expects them to be. But given our history, our music history, and cultural evolution, we know the sounds of our music - as all people can identify the music of their land and area. I am glad my gut feeling was right and the music wasn't actually that simple. With the complexity of our ancient chants and the plethora of instruments we had in antiquity, there was no excuse for our ancient melodies to be that simple.

#ancient greek music #instruments #music history #middle ages #history of music #lyre #harp #ancient greek #classics #classic civilizations #bagpipes #aulos #pipes #roman history #panflute #mediterranean #historian #antiquity #farya faraji #chants #Youtube #byzantine music #byzantine empire #byzantium

[zitasaurusrex]

Werewolf: the Apocalypse fans should read J.F. Sambrano's account of their experiences working on Werewolf 5th Edition, and in particular how much of a miserable struggle it was to get Paradox to approve ANY of even the most basic of the extremely necessary changes that needed to be made re: Indigenous appropriation and stereotyping in WtA.

I also think their points about unpaid cultural consulting work and the way companies only care about these kind of issues if they're presented as a potential PR problem are things a lot of people need to hear.

When I first heard about what the Hunters team was working on and got to see what Sambrano in particular was saying about the project, I had hope the new edition of Werewolf would finally fix so many of this game's problems in this area and make it easier to enjoy the things that are good about it without continuing to bring along some of its worst problems.

I was really excited to see important changes like giving the Native American tribes better names, but now that I know it was a grudging concession and how poorly the person who fought the hardest for it was treated....

Well.

#so yeah I'm canceling a preorder... #werewolf: the apocalypse

[decadentrot]

Assclass Wild West Au 🐎🐎🐎

And honestly i love Nagisa's design, I love the concept of the assclass girls hiding guns underneath their dresses and everyone riding horses and nagisa being a bomb bounty hunter, but wtf is kayano's hat and karma's fashion choices here?? Like hes wearing this blue cheeta print shirt and red pants and he put his sheriff star like in the bottom middle of his coat and he's carrying a missile launcher?!?!

Aside from that, im strangely hooked onto this au like nagisa being the best bounty hunter and constantly in a standoff with sheriff karma and trusting the sweet innkeeper kayano only to find out shes been one of his bountys for the longest time. Meanwhile karma being a lazy sheriff whose constantly throwing Terasaka's gang of bandits in jail. And then theres the saloon sisters being the shadow leaders who use kanzaki to lure people into the bar and then okuda makes strong liquor to inebriate them and then nakamura learns all their secrets to run the town. Also i love the gold digger joke between isogai and maehara, i imagine them trying to manifest destiny and traveling to the gold mines in california

If I do plan on adding the rest of the class, like i need to come up with terasaka gang's bandit designs. Also, I picture cowboy sugino going on a horseback ride with kanzaki and getting absolutely robbed by the highway men and kanzaki having to pull out her gun and save him lmao

Edit: I'm really sorry for my original post and for offending any Native Americans. In my original post, I included the assassination classroom official art where there was a depiction of Hayami in a Native American outfit and I admittedly, did not do as much research into the history behind it as I should have. When I have more free time, I wanted to do a research deep dive into the Indian culture and understand what they wore and their lifestyle during that time period in order to properly do this AU. I never meant to culturally appropriate the Native American culture or erase their existing culture with a stereotypical "American" version of it. It was a pretty spontaneous decision based on the designs and my limited knowledge of the western genre and the history during that era, so I really do apologize. Again, I'm sorry for showing a depiction of the stereotype and I will do more research in order to be more respectful if I do decide to continue with this AU.

#assassination classroom #assclass #assclass fanart #nagisa shiota #karma akabane #rio nakamura #manami okuda #yukiko kanzaki #yuma isogai #hiroto maehara #kaede kayano #wild west au

[awek-s-archived]

i am a bit curious as to why you dislike idle. i don't particularly love them myself but i'm curious as to your reasoning

ok thank u so much for asking first of all because i feel like a lot of people over the years have been curious about this and instead of asking me abt my reasoning regarding anything to do w idle they kind of default to anon hate, so. DKLFGJKLDF

im gonna give background, i followed y/uqi predebut, since that video came out of her as a young trainee moving from china to korea and being a part of a series where trainees go up to strangers in the streets and ask them to listen to them sing to gauge some of the public reaction to them if they debut. she sang in front of this one particular girl who used to be a trainee herself but couldn't live with the pressure and kind of yearned for that dream still, i guess? anyway, she gave y/uqi a lot of advice that i feel really helped ground her and to this day i think she's actually the only or at the very least the most grounded member of idle. and the only one i actually have nothing against and would love to see thrive, because i sincerely think she would and i'll come on to that later.

the tldr version is that i don't agree with the rampant racism and cultural appropriation that they engage in from music videos to general looks to sounds and beats in their actual songs. it's a lot. i know kpop groups in general are very guilty of this and sometimes, not very often, when you tell them it's wrong they apologise and stop doing it. but idle fall under the same category as suju and m/amamoo in that they literally don't care that they're doing it, because they have seen and i believe apologised about it then continued to do the same thing. but my issue with them as a group wasn't ever really directed at specific members until miss s/oyeon's international fuck-up where she said she wants to make 'ethnic hip' music as basically her excuse of why she appropriates cultures.

i paid a lot more attention to their group behaviour after that and there was a time of hiatus where y/uqi and m/innie in particular were very chill and doing their own thing where they were extremely different from how they were when s/oyeon ruled over them. y/uqi went back to being the grounded, friendly, chaotic and generally nice person she was before with no issues or controversies and m/innie did also. i don't really care about the other two so i can't comment on them extensively but these two i paid attention to because i know i liked them from before. but miss s/oyeon?? well, she carried on the group controversies all on her own, lmao. more racism and cultural appropriation but this time she also blatantly plagiarised another producer's songs and released them, lied about asking for permission to recreate the song DOWN TO A T (the song is wave by a/teez btw). basically she admitted to stealing it without using so many words but continued to promote it and didn't give the credit that was due for her plagiarism. i think this was one of 3 (?) plagiarism accusations in the space of a few months. so she's very big on growth as an artist and thinks of herself as a big producer but ultimately all she does is steal the songs from smaller artists and smaller producers and pass it off as her own. obviously as a creative myself, i'm not ok with this and i think she's a poor excuse of an artist to do it. she doesn't deserve the title.

in the last couple of comebacks, she profited off m/arilyn m/onroe's death and image, which is disgusting to me. i don't care what excuse her fans think up to make it ok -- especially when this came out at the same time as 2 documentary series about m/arilyn and she was a huge subject of discussion globally again. so it was evidently a ploy for cash and probably a good stepping stone to s/oyeon trying to make ~empowering music~ for women. sadly all she's doing, if her lyrics are anything to go by, is promoting the exact stereotype of women that everybody else is trying to fight against. she's saying, it's ok for women to love themselves but creepy for them to engage in sex or for men to be physically attracted to them because that makes them perverts (nxde lyrics allude to this VERY heavily).

i also personally don't like the attempted profiting off lgbt fans with 'oh my god', which people made theories about BEFORE she publicly came out as saying that it represents love in all forms, and kept alluding to it AFTER to give fans something to talk about despite officially saying she doesn't want to limit it to homosexuality -- so, how was it a song for the gays then? it wasn't. she was going with the fan theory to get talked about. it's not a bad marketing strategy but it is vile from an actual gay person's point of view, and the fact that she backtracked officially to say it's not ABOUT anything specific while feeding into the ~ally~ delusions privately is disgusting to me, personally. and i'd get if it was taboo to the point of it being career-ending, but there are plenty of other kpop groups who have explicitly stated their videos or songs or dramas, or ANYTHING, are strictly in representation of lgbt love both before and after oh my god -- o/nlyoneof in particular.

more recently of course, the attempted dissing of rookie groups, however light -- those are children. you're a grown woman. if you want to write a disstrack, don't do it about people who are a decade your juniors, OR a decade your seniors. she dissed h/yuna and h/yojong in a song and then sent h/yuna a signed album this comeback. weird to me, even if there are no hard feelings. it's not about the action so much as the attitude with which she keeps doing those things. this is where my newfound m/innie dislike comes in too, because she recently PUBLICLY dissed i/ve for winning an award against idle despite the fact that idle had already won a similar award something like the day before or a few days before. but i think i'll get over it because i genuinely don't believe that that's her actual attitude, i think 100% it's s/oyeon's influence.

and my reasoning for THAT is y/uqi's recent interview, where she said she and s/oyeon don't get along virtually at all, and fight all the time. she (y/uqi) finds it funny and thinks it's a sign of being close and honest, which it can be -- but that's not a healthy relationship, period. if you can't talk to someone without arguing, you don't get along ever.. that's not a friendship. but it does in a sense bring me comfort because i hate the type of person s/oyeon is and the fact that y/uqi argues with her so much tells me that she's the polar opposite. furthermore y/uqi also mentioned wanting to be the leader in situations, and that just tells me everything i need to know re: how much they actually agree with s/oyeon's creative decisions for them as a group and perhaps as individuals too, since she's currently cube's favourite and has significantly more pull than anybody else at that company.

i know you asked about idle full group dislike but it does all come down to s/oyeon in the end, because i think all of this controversy and all this behaviour could've been avoided if somebody knocked her down a peg. but i think everything she does is shallow and performative at best, she's not a hard worker like everybody thinks she is, but she does see herself as a martyr in all aspects and i guess tries to capitalise off it. which ok, that's her business, but i think it's gross and unfair to drag the other girls down with her. nevertheless all her choices (that she's proud of, too, let's not forget) up to now have made the group as controversial as it is now and is why i dislike it so actively as a unit, even aside from the other individual members.

#wow this is mad long im sorry #asks

[nyushkawritesstuff]

Crafting Authentic Slavic Characters: A Guide to Avoid Stereotypes and Embrace Diversity

A/N: I've been informed that people who have nothing on their blog can be mistaken for bots, so I decided to make one about something I'm really passionate about, as a Montenegrin woman. So sit back and enjoy :) (Keep in mind that I've never written a blog before, not even in my native language, so excuse any mistakes.)

Dear writers and storytellers,

As we dive into the art of character creation, it's essential to recognize the significance of crafting Slavic characters authentically and respectfully. Our stories have the power to challenge stereotypes and foster cultural understanding. This guide aims to provide a balanced perspective on what to do and what not to do when developing Slavic characters.

1. Do Research Thoroughly: Invest time in researching Slavic cultures, languages, history, and traditions. The more you know, the better you can authentically represent Slavic characters.

2. Don't Rely on Stereotypes: Avoid portraying Slavic characters solely through stereotypes like the "Russian villain" or "stoic Eastern European." Break away from these clichés.

3. Do Embrace Diversity: Recognize the diversity within the Slavic region. Slavic culture varies greatly from one country to another, so consider this when creating characters.

4. Don't Use Accents as a Crutch: Avoid heavy phonetic accents in dialogue, as they can come across as caricatures. Instead, convey their origin through subtle language choices.

5. Do Develop Complex Personalities: Slavic characters, like any others, should have multi-dimensional personalities, aspirations, and flaws. Make them relatable.

6. Don't Overdo "Tragic Backstories": While adversity can make a character compelling, avoid making every Slavic character's life a never-ending tragedy.

7. Do Consult Sensitively: If you're not from a Slavic background, consider seeking input from individuals who are. Be respectful and willing to learn.

8. Don't Fetishize Culture: Avoid reducing Slavic culture to exotic or mystical elements. Portray it respectfully, not as a novelty.

9. Do Challenge Prejudices: Use your writing to challenge stereotypes and prejudices, both within your story and in your readers' minds.

10. Don't Make All Slavic Characters the Same: Not every Slavic character should conform to a specific mold. Showcase their individuality.

11. Do Address Historical Context: If your story involves historical events or themes, handle them with sensitivity and accuracy.

12. Don't Neglect Positive Representations: While conflict can be a central theme, don't forget to include positive Slavic characters who contribute to the narrative in meaningful ways.

13. Do Avoid Cultural Appropriation: Use cultural elements respectfully and with proper context, avoiding appropriation or misrepresentation.

14. Don't Make Language Mistakes: If using Slavic languages in your writing, ensure they are used correctly to avoid unintended errors or offense.

15. Do Humanize Your Characters: At the core of it all, Slavic characters are human beings. Treat them with the same care, depth, and humanity you would any other character.

16. Don't Be Complacent: Writing authentic Slavic characters is an ongoing process. Continuously educate yourself and be open to feedback.

In conclusion, dear writers, crafting Slavic characters that break free from stereotypes and embrace diversity is not just a creative endeavor but a moral one. As storytellers, we have the power to shape perceptions and promote cultural understanding. By following these guidelines and committing to respectful and nuanced representation, we can contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant literary landscape.

Let's embark on this journey together, armed with knowledge and empathy, and create characters that truly reflect the rich tapestry of the Slavic experience.

You're also free to ask *me* any questions, if you have them and would like an answer from someone who's actually Slavic.

With sincerity and resolve,

Nyushka, a certified Slavic person :)

#writeblr #writerscommunity #ao3 writer #writer things #writblr #writerslife #representation matters #culture #slavic #slavic culture #slavic representation #inclusion #inclusivity #representation #representation in media #representation in literature #culturalexploration #culturalheritage #cultural differences #cultural diversity #diversity #diversity in media

[jiubilant]

i'm one hundred percent certain that people have discussed tes's racism and orientalism specifically in regard to what we're told about akavir and the tsaesci before but i've primarily seen discussion of orientalism in regard to the games' depiction of the dunmer over the course of my time here and because i've been talking about 2920 (the in-game book) lately i did want to make a post making the most important reason that i dislike it clear...i don't think i'm saying anything new hence the cut but

i think of all the in-game books and the lore we're given in the games 2920—which i'm talking about here from a doylist rather than a watsonian perspective—is one of the most blatant examples of the series' tendency to appropriate from, stereotype, exoticize, demonize, and engage in otherwise othering east asian people and cultures. elder scrolls like most other works of misguidedly-tolkien-derived fantasy is a story steeped in racial essentialism and the idea that tamriel is caught up in an endless race war—that it is, per the title of the first game, "the arena"—is an idea that's been integral to the series since it was conceived. and the history as we're presented with it of tamriel's interactions with akavir, a genre-typical orientalist "asia" analogue populated by animal people (i don't think i need to go into the reason why that's racist, or the reason why the depiction of the tsaesci as yellow-scaled vampiric snake-people who duplicitously took over the empire is especially racist), is a typical yellow-peril narrative. overall really astonishingly backward and ill-conceived—and, again, inextricable from what the elder scrolls as a series is, because the idea that two cultures can interact without conflict or ulterior motive is not compatible with that idea of "the arena"

as people engaging with this material and creating our own content based on it it's our responsibility to look at it critically and make sure that the racist assumptions inherent to the source material aren't coloring our own work. specifically in regard to the tsaesci, continuing to depict them as snake-people (eso has already walked this back) would be perpetuating a racist trope. so would characterizing them as cold and ruthless and dishonest traitors and usurpers of power (as 2920's two tsaesci characters are depicted). and so would continuing under the assumption that they're now completely gone from tamriel (apart from the refugees who fled to hakoshae) but have conveniently left behind a few katanas for the player character to swing and feel cool. honestly it is so nasty that we can do that but cannot make or meet an asian character

#save

[soupdots]

GUYS LMAO GUESS WHAT I MADE SNDBF

so i’m a high school student taking AP classes and today i was wishing my AP classes were more interesting and i was like i wish there was an atla AP class…….

…so i kinda sorta wrote out an entire curriculum for said AP class. it’s very incomplete, but it’s what i could crank out in like an hour.

so. uh. let me know if you think anything should be added. i’m sorry for how niche this is lmaoooo

AP ATLA Studies

AP ATLA Studies curriculum

3 terms, sociology/media/history focused

Term 1: S1

Topics:

⁃ Brief cinematography and narrative studies

⁃ Child soldiers and child heroes in ATLA, media and Asian history

⁃ War in ATLA and media (specifically children’s media)

⁃ The definition of genocide as well as its long-term effects, and how its portrayal in ATLA compares with real-world examples

⁃ North American native culture and its portrayal in ATLA and media

⁃ Portrayal of Asian culture in ATLA

⁃ Spirituality in Asian and North American native cultures

⁃ Feminism in ATLA and children’s media, particularly during the early 2000s

⁃ Martial arts in ATLA and media

⁃ Zuko’s motivation, Jet’s anger and Yue’s sacrifice: invisible motivators such as honor, righteousness and duty in ATLA, media, and real life, particularly in Asian cultures

⁃ Character studies on Aang, Katara, Sokka, Suki, Iroh and Zuko in the context of above topics

Term 2: S2

Topics:

⁃ Imperialism in ATLA, media and Asian history

⁃ The history of class division in Asian culture and its portrayal in ATLA

⁃ Disabilities in ATLA and media (specifically children’s media)

⁃ Definitions of “good,” “bad,” “right,” “wrong,” and the portrayals of these qualities in children’s media

⁃ Government corruption in ATLA, media and Asian history

⁃ Manipulation, disappearance and brainwashing in the context of war in Asian history

⁃ Redemption and forgiveness as portrayed in media, specifically Zuko and Iroh’s redemptions

⁃ The role of animals in media and spirituality

⁃ Continued analysis of portrayal of Asian and North American native cultures in ATLA

⁃ Death in children’s media

⁃ Hinduism and Buddhism in ATLA

⁃ Subtle stereotyping and racism in media: the problem of Guru Pathik

⁃ Studies on how Aang, Sokka, Katara, Suki, Zuko and Iroh have changed since S1 as well as studies on Toph and Azula in the context of appropriate topics.

Term 3: S3

Topics:

⁃ Propaganda in Asian history and how it is demonstrated in ATLA

⁃ The roots of bigotry and violence, and child development in the context of global challenges

⁃ The cycle of abuse and neglect in ATLA and in real life

⁃ Negative environmental and social effects of industrialization in the context of Industrial Revolution-era Asia

⁃ Grief and revenge portrayed in ATLA, and continued study of forgiveness as a theme

⁃ Zuko’s redemption: how it has developed over time, its realism, its flaws, its repercussions, its themes both explicit and implicit and their applications in a real life appraisal of crime

⁃ Azula’s breakdown: the subtle abuse and neglect she suffered, where her paranoia stems from, the factors leading to the mirror scene and how these can be examined through the lens of real-life unhealthy perfectionism and projection in parenting

⁃ Azula and Katara as character foils

⁃ Aang’s dilemma: Cultural values vs. “what needs to be done,” continued examination of what genocide means, historical resilience against oppression, Buddhist values as portrayed in ATLA

⁃ How the Fire Nation’s ethics and values correspond with those of historic and modern real-life cultures, and how children specifically are affected by oppressive regimes

⁃ Abusers and abuse victims as portrayed in ATLA and media

⁃ Studies on how all the main characters have changed, including character studies on Mai and Ty Lee, culture studies on any of the four nations, and analysis of the deeper symbolism behind forms of bending.

#atla #avatar the last airbender #azula #zuko #sokka #toph #aang #katara #suki #iroh #atla mai #ty lee #avatar

[rapperswithmostgrammys]

Unveiling the Talent: Exploring the Phenomenon of White Rappers

In the vibrant tapestry of hip-hop, there exists a subset of artists whose backgrounds diverge from the conventional narrative of the genre. These artists, often referred to as white rappers," bring their own unique flavor to the table, challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers with their lyrical prowess. Join me as we delve into the world of white rappers, exploring their rise to prominence and the impact they've had on the hip-hop landscape.

Beyond Stereotypes: Redefining the Image of White Rappers

Breaking the Mold

In a genre historically dominated by African-American artists, white rappers have faced their fair share of scrutiny and skepticism. Yet, despite the odds stacked against them, these artists have managed to carve out a niche for themselves, proving that talent knows no bounds. From the gritty streets of Detroit to the suburban enclaves of Los Angeles, white rappers have emerged from all corners of the globe, each bringing their own unique perspective to the table.

Challenging Preconceptions

One of the most significant contributions of white rappers to the hip-hop landscape has been their ability to challenge stereotypes and preconceptions about race and identity. Through their music, these artists have offered a fresh perspective on issues such as privilege, discrimination, and cultural appropriation, sparking important conversations within the hip-hop community and beyond.

The Pioneers: Trailblazers of White Rap

Eminem

No discussion of white rappers would be complete without mentioning the one and only Eminem. Hailing from the mean streets of Detroit, Eminem burst onto the scene in the late 90s with his groundbreaking album, "The Slim Shady LP." With his lightning-fast delivery and razor-sharp wit, Eminem quickly established himself as one of the most formidable lyricists in the game, earning critical acclaim and commercial success in equal measure.

Beastie Boys

Before Eminem, there were the Beastie Boys—the original white rap pioneers. Hailing from New York City, the Beastie Boys rose to prominence in the 1980s with their eclectic blend of punk rock and hip-hop. Tracks like "Fight for Your Right" and "Sabotage" not only topped the charts but also helped to break down racial barriers in the music industry, paving the way for future generations of white rappers.

The New Wave: Modern-Day White Rappers

Machine Gun Kelly

With his rebellious spirit and unapologetic attitude, Machine Gun Kelly has emerged as one of the most exciting voices in modern hip-hop. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Machine Gun Kelly burst onto the scene in the early 2010s with his electrifying mixtapes and high-energy performances. Tracks like "Wild Boy" and "Bad Things" showcase his versatility as an artist, blending rap, rock, and pop influences to create a sound that's uniquely his own.

Post Malone

While Post Malone may not fit the traditional image of a rapper, there's no denying his impact on the genre. With his melodic flow and genre-bending sound, Post Malone has captivated audiences around the world, earning accolades and awards for his chart-topping hits. From "White Iverson" to "Rockstar," Post Malone's music defies categorization, transcending boundaries and bringing people together in celebration of good vibes and great tunes.

Conclusion: Embracing Diversity in Hip-Hop

In a genre as diverse and dynamic as hip-hop, there's room for artists of all backgrounds and identities to thrive. While white rappers may have faced challenges and obstacles along the way, their contributions to the culture cannot be denied. From the pioneers who paved the way to the modern-day trailblazers who continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, white rappers have left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape, enriching the genre with their unique perspectives and experiences.

So the next time you find yourself nodding your head to the beat of a white rapper's track, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and talent that went into creating it. After all, in the world of hip-hop, diversity is not just a buzzword—it's a celebration of the rich tapestry of human experience, woven together by the universal language of music.

#white rappers #Youtube

[celestialmaison]

it’s interesting that the existence of xg is such an uncomfortable topic for so many people.

if they aren’t openly discredited for being a primarily fem east asian group, then they get misbranded as an act from the country they primarily train & promote in (south korea) aka a kpop group when they Are Not A Kpop Group plus: they’ve have faced various discriminations in sk. if it’s not their use of english in all of their official music, then they’re suddenly not as hardworking as others or are “too comfortable” despite their free documentary showing us how much hell they’ve gone to just to debut the same as nearly every group in the east asian music industry. and of course there’s the ever-prevalent “the group doesn’t even make sense.”

and this part requires even more nuance nuance: xg’s music is written + produced primarily by other poc (rachel west, jakops, poe leos, patrick “j.que” smith & more) & includes heavy aave (african american vernacular english). in recent months there’s also been valid discussion surrounding jurin + cocona’s hairstyles + whether they are culturally appropriate or not. many east asian idols+groups continue to engage in cultural appropriation, but people act like these things are unacceptable when it comes to xg when these are not experiences unique to xg & are part of many east asian music group experiences (ESPECIALLY KPOP GROUPS) for a variety of reasons not limited to racism, wanting to mirror the “western” industry, & racism. there are also a lot of black songwriters+producers working in sk. all poc (especially black & indigenous people) are entitled to their nuanced perspective on the prevalence of cultural appropriation in east asian music industries+culture; it impacts us in different ways & we will have different, possibly changing perspectives on it.

xg’s entire concept is breaking boundaries stereotypes & expectations. english+aave are the primary languages they perform their songs in, & they are known for using korean, japanese, & english on non-official releases. they regularly release dance+music content between promotional periods, showcasing the experience they’ve gained from training + being an active group. they’ve performed at kcon japan + head in the clouds new york & have been promoting in the west on billboard, elle, + more. they’ve collaborated with ciara, jackson wang, & rico nasty. they’re so fcking popular i can’t find their albums! anywhere! plus, xg debuted in march of last year.

if credibility is a concern, they’ve established it. if success is a concern, consider why you think you get to decide what they deserve. and again (with nuance) if you’re a poc, your perspective on the cultural aspects of the group is yours. i know for a fact that xg is especially adored by black people for their music, lyrics, & non-official releases, many of which include covers + samples of poc songs/beats (like “two tens” a beat by j.cole, a black american rapper, that maya+harvey recently sampled). i also know a lot of us were angry+thrown+confused+hurt+etc when cocona + jurin wore certain hairstyles. (girllllll if you don’t get that shit out your head.) for me, there’s no final good vs. evil conclusion to be made bc of how prevalent it (appropriation) is & how much i’ve exhausted myself in moments past attempting to find one.

if you don’t like how xg does things (not the hair stuff)(never again…please) or can’t appreciate what they stand for as a group, then no, you won’t like them & you probably won’t enjoy their content. xg does not exist to make sense to you, or anyone else for that matter.

#xg #blue rambles #xtraordinary girls #xgalx #cw cultural appropriation #does that warrant a cw #i think it does #the next person that says xg is too comfortable is getting an indefinite timeout in the void #i mean it #music