#my goodness….such pure wholesome vibes…..so beautiful…..

[paracosmicka]

Why am I just now discovering the “with mama” meme, it seems I have deprived myself of such wholesomeness. The possibilities I could create with Shadow and his babies…..oh my goodness…..

[likelysobbing]

kaleena smith is so beautiful. like to a degree it’s affecting me (y’all ever get like.. beauty aggression. its like cuteness aggression but when someones so beautiful you wanna like throw a table but not at them) which is my problem and i acknowledge that but i just wanted to like say it. kaleena smith is so ppretty like i get shy seeing her this is like so pathetic of me. also btw yall new fic in the works sl like look out for that

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

hi ms raven :D i was playing through vil's dream in book 7 and i was wondering if you could explain a little more about his character? i remember struggling to understand his motivs leading up to his overblot. the current understanding i have now is that vil wants to be the best or the most beautiful but is constantly getting blocked by neige probably because hes not perfect and it makes others lean towards him and want to support him while vil has reached a level where hes seemingly flawless on the outside making it hard for people to get close to him the way they do with neige? does he crave the validation from others and is that why there was an emphasis on him declaring that he himself is the most beautiful like in b6 and b7? i dont think i really understand him enough and its just been on my mind for a while now TT

I think Vil's got one of those backstories and motives that's easy to misunderstand if skimmed. This can lead to misinterpretations where fans assume he's vain and only seeking to take Neige down for shallow attention. It's a lot more complex than that!

The first thing to note about Vil is that he is a child star. His father, Eric Venue, is also a very successful celebrity, but the public does not know about their familial relationship. Vil has worked very hard to achieve his level of stardom all on his own, without relying on nepotism or riding on the coattails of his father. However, that also means that Vil was under an intense amount of pressure and scrutiny since a young age, and that can really mess with one's self-perception.

Since the start of his career, Vil has only ever been casted in villain roles. His post-OB flashback shows Vil asking his dad "Why do I keep getting picked to play the bad guy? Do I really look that mean?"

And though his father reassures him and calls him cute and charming, the vast majority of other people Vil interacts with judge him and assign labels to him. Children Vil's age "hold [him] accountable for work(s) of fiction", equating him playing villainous roles on TV to him actually being a villainous person off-set.

Similar things occur in his professional life. Film crew members praise Neige for his friendliness and wholesome vibe, but also express that Vil is just too perfect and hard for audiences to relate to, so Vil apparently isn't suitable to play the hero.

So on one hand, you have Vil's peers, who assume that he must be an awful person, just like all the characters he plays. Then you have Vil's colleagues, who put him on a pedestal, calling him "special" but also saying he's not relatable. Both viewpoints isolate and dehumanize him. They indirectly tell Vil--a young, impressionable kid--that he's not capable of goodness or of being a normal person. You also have to keep in mind that because Vil always has eyes on him, he has to maintain a cool, mature, and perfectly curated public image. He has had to grow up extremely fast in order to handle himself in the entertainment industry. That's an INTENSE amount of pressure to be under. So how does Vil react to all this pressure? By pushing himself to work even harder to prove everyone wrong. "I would do anything to be beautiful. The most rigorous training. The most tedious hair and skin care regimens. I would shy away from none of it." This is later repeated in the Tapis Rouge event: “[…] looking for the easy way out. Something I detest. […] I love to see someone with a lofty goal who’s not afraid to work for it.”

At this juncture, I'd like to point out a vital area where Vil's story and that of Snow White weave together. In Snow White, physical beauty is used as shorthand to indicate the goodness of a character. Snow White is pure, beautiful, and innocent because she has a good heart. The Evil Queen is more accurately depicted in her hag form because of how her jealousy twists her into something hideous. When Vil speaks of beauty, it's also in a similar context. He's using "beauty" as a metaphor for "goodness", hence why he fixates on Neige being the "fairest one of all". Neige is the one always playing the hero, and he is also the one the internet considers the most beautiful--so if Vil can become the most beautiful, then surely he, too, can be a hero.

If beauty = goodness, then the opposite is also true to book 5 Vil: ugliness = villainy. And if he is always assigned the villain again and again and again, then its telling Vil that he's “ugly”, that he is a bad person and can never be anything but that.

Not only that, but Vil's worries about permanently being labelled a villain relates back to how his peers and colleagues perceive him. "[...] villains never stay on stage for the whole play. Once their role is finished, all they do is watch from the shadows as the happy ending plays out. [...] All I want is to stay on stage until the end of the show." Vil wants what has always been denied to him: the ability to stand on stage and take a bow with the other actors, to be treated like a normal person that's a part of the group, to have that humanity handed back to him. Why should he be the only one languishing backstage while Neige and other heroes get to soak up that spotlight? He wants to be a part of it, too. He wants to be included.

Let's get back into book 5, present day, now. Vil spends much of this book driving his teammates VERY hard to achieve his vision. To this end, he is imposing harsh restrictions on them, such as new diets, new skincare, new practice routines, and more. This of course garners many protests, but Vil insists on having his way and admonishes those who complain. In these moments, Vil is very much acting like a "villain"--but to him, it's all worth it, because he wants to win against Neige fair and square, earning that victory through his own efforts. "[...] I have no interest in spells that fade when the clock chimes midnight. What I seek is genuine, authentic aesthetic perfection."

Recall that I said earlier that beauty is used as a shorthand for goodness. Because Vil is stating that he wants to win fairly, he is attempting to demonstrate his own beauty--his own goodness--in this bid to triumph over his rival.

But what ends up happening? Vil sees Neige's practice performance and realizes right away that NRC is destined to lose. He tries to take matters into his own hands by cursing a bottle of apple juice and offering it to Neige. While book 5 is vague about what the consequences of drinking that cursed juice would have been, book 7 implies the worst--that Vil had intended to kill Neige with it. Vil went against his own principles (which he stated earlier in book 5) and used a dirty tactic to get Neige out of his way. He can only win if he harms others in the process. I would argue that what triggers Vil to snap and OB isn't his failure to poison Neige (although that's certainly a part of it), but rather Vil realizing he just... proved what everyone has always said about him right. That he's rotten to the core (ie "ugly") and will never be anything else but a villain.

Vil fixates on the eyes of his teammates, perceiving them to be staring at him and judging the moral ugliness of his actions. Like in his childhood, he derives much of his image from public feedback--from the eyes on him. "Please. Don't look at me... Don't look at me with those eyes! Why? I wanted to be the fairest one of all, so why am I so... so... ugly? Ugly?! UGLY?!"

Kalim and Rook try to reassure Vil and remind him that Neige didn't get hurt, so it's okay. But Vil only gets more upset and continues to berate himself. "What does it matter who forgives me?! I can't... I can't forgive myself!" This makes sense for Vil, who is a character that has consistently held the people around him, as well as himself, to high standards. He has betrayed himself, and he is ashamed of how ugly his envy has made him.

After Vil's OB, Rook pretty succinctly states why Vil fails to be "beautiful": because he doesn't believe in himself. Throughout his entire life, Vil has been relying on the words of others to affirm his identity as someone "beautiful", as a "good" person. You can even argue that Vil being so strict with himself is to earn the approval of others, to be seen as the "most beautiful". But Vil never truly believed he was "beautiful" ("good"), and that lack of confidence is ironically what is keeping him from realizing his full potential. "Nobody should believe in your beauty more than you yourself [...] No amount of validation from the rest of the world will ever leave you fulfilled. Even if you wind up old, emaciated, grimy, and stooped over... If you were to truly believe that you are the fairest of all despite that, even the Magic Mirror of legend wouldn't contest your claim. The strength and pride to believe in yourself is what marks the true fairest one of all. Roi du Poison. Fair Vil. I implore you to believe in yourself more than anyone else. Beauty is always with you. At this exact moment, you are the fairest one of all."

In book 6, we get to see how far Vil's character has progressed. When Idia taunts Pomefiore, calling them "wannabe heroes", Vil responds with, "You know, I've always wanted to be cast as a hero, just once. But there are no heroes or villains here. This time I'll be the one who stays on stage till the very end!" He now disregards the notion of labels and is only committed to being the one that puts an end to Idia's machinations.

This point is even further driven home when we see old!Vil, the result of him diving into Tartarus to pull Idia out. Though his dorm members are shocked to see their glamourous leader in this state, Vil laughs it off and announces, without hesitation: "Even though I'm grimy, withered, and emaciated... At this exact moment, I am the fairest one of all." This parallels the words Rook imparted onto him at the end of book 5. ("Even if you wind up old, emaciated, grimy, and stooped over... [...] At this exact moment, you are the fairest one of all.")

It's a complete reversal of Vil OBing. Back in book 5, Vil went mad because he realized his jealous actions made him hideous (even if he still physically looks young and conventionally attractive). But now, in book 6, Vil is content in knowing that his heroic actions make him absolutely beautiful (even if he stands there, old and grey). It doesn't matter what he looks like on the outside, or what other people think of him--because Vil has learned to love himself and to stay true to his principles.

He is deserving of standing on that stage with everyone else. He is human, like everyone else. He’s not THE Vil Schoenheit anymore, he’s… just Vil. This also shows in vulnerable moments late game, like him squealing from excitement at the end of book 6 or screaming in fear in book 7. He still has the image of a celebrity to maintain, but he’s now allowing himself to be less of that “perfect” person, at least around his peers. I believe this is what Vil’s dream in book 7 reinforces. This is most exemplified when Vil faces his OB self and announces, “Oh… This is deplorable. I’m so steeped in envy and resentment there isn’t a trace of beauty to be found. But I won’t turn away from it any longer. I accept this nauseatingly ugly part part of myself. This is… the real me.” I won't get into the details of that dream, since I assume you've played it + it would just repeat what I've already gone over in this post. That’s honestly what most (if not all) of the book 7 dreams do, try to summarize their personal issues, how the dream attempts to placate them with convenient falsehoods, and then have the dreamers confront those falsehoods with what they’ve learned through their own arcs.

[chainkeepustogetherr]

FLUFF ALPHABET, JEFF BUCKLEY

( A ) AFFECTION - how affectionate are they?

oh do not even get me started… he is genuinely the pure definition of affectionate/an affectionate person. no matter what time it is, what vibe it is, where you guys currently are or what you both are currently doing, he certainly will show an unadulterated & unconditional amount of affection towards you. wether that be verbally or physically, it don’t matter one bit! he absolutely loves showering you with love at all times <3

( B ) BEAUTY - what do they admire most about you? what do they think is your most beautiful feature/attribute?

he loves your eyes, he finds solace & peace in lovingly gazing into your eyes. he often finds himself writing poetry in his mind of a million different ways to eccentrically describe them. same thing with your smile, there isn’t a lot more he loves then seeing you smile! especially when its caused by him <33

( C ) CUDDLES - do they like to cuddle? and if so, how?

YES. YES AND YES. it genuinely soothes him like no other. after a long, meticulously stressful day, his only remedy is eloping himself into your arms, or you into his.

& he is most definitely the skin to skin, chest to forehead type cuddler as opposed to spooning or any of the other “techniques”. it makes him feel as close to you as possible.

( D ) DREAMS - how do they picture their future with you?

i feel like, jeff’s not prone to thinking about the future, although. he is certain that a life without you in it would be bleak & miserable, & that he wants to spend the rest of his days as your lover

( E ) EQUAL - are they the dominant one in the relationship or passive?

i think he would definitely share both characteristics, not necessarily confined to one.

( F ) FIGHTING - what are they like during a fight? how quickly would they able to forgive/be forgiven?

id say jeff would be the kind to use words as weapons in an argument, though he would never ever raise his voice at you, or yell in any form. the second he sees tears forming within your eyes, or noticed your lack of verbal communication, he instantly rushes to your side, exclaiming how sorry he is, & how what was said wasnt meant, & that he loves you dearly

( G ) GENTLE - how gentle are they?

EXTREMELY. gentle. so so so gentle to the point where sometimes you feel as if he sees you as fragile, in the most wholesome way possible. his touch is the most delicate & gentle, alongside the way in which he tells you he loves you.

( H ) HONESTY - do they have any secrets from you? or do they share every little detail?

oh, every little detail is 1000% shared. he tells you everything, from birth to current day, mundane & classified as “boring” to moments that shaped him, its almost as if you know him just as much as he knows himself.

( I ) I LOVE YOU - how long does it take for them to say the L word? how do they say it?

he says it practically the second he feels it, most likely through a letter/poem he wrote you, or as he’s admiring you, seemingly dozing off due to his fascination with you

( J ) JEALOUSY - do they get jealous? if so, how?

yes, he tends to get slightly jealous at times. it truly depends on the person & situation. its more so a jealousy in the sense of, “thats MY lover, not yours” as opposed to an insecurity or controlling based jealousy. when jealous, he often becomes slightly smug, boasting that you are very much his, & he has the gift of being able to love you, & vice versa

( K ) KISSES - what are their kissing habits? are they a good kisser?

soft, slow & sensual would be 3 words to describe the way he kisses you. its hardly ever rushed, only ever filled with love & admiration, even in more sexual settings. & lets be real… 10/10 kisser.

( L ) LOVE CONFESSION - how do they confess their love?

1000% through a (not so) discreet love letter, pouring out every ounce of emotion he has felt for you from current day, to the moment he first laid eyes on you.

( M ) MORNINGS - how are mornings spent with them?

mornings are sooo incredibly soft w/ jeff. 9/10 you wake up entangled within each others arms, legs knotted up together, hair a total mess. he often mutters a “g’d morning my love”, before pressing a lil kiss to your temple, inching himself closer to you than before. though, morning sex is almost always guaranteed as well

( N ) NIGHTS - how are nights spent with them?

nights are often really, really calm. theyre usually spent cuddled up together on the couch, watching a stupid tv show/movie, or dancin’ around the apartment with some zeppelin playing on vinyl

( O ) ON CLOUD NINE - what are they like when they are in love? is it obvious for others? how do they express their feelings?

oh, its so stupidly obvious to practically everyone. the way in which he looks at you with soft eyes, always protective over what youre doin’, constantly asking for you to come to shows, always boasting about you, spending his afternoon’s writing poems about you, the list goes on.

he expresses them through “jokes”, or sarcasm hidden as the truth. example being, you boasting about a kind favour jeff did for you, & one of his bandmates/friends exclaiming it to be “him being totally head over heels for you”, jeff often “sarcastically” nods along saying “what can i say? its true, im totally in love with you”. “sarcastically”

( P ) PDA - are they upfront about their relationship? do they brag with their s/o in front of others? or are they rather shy to kiss etc. when others are watching?

i feel like, jeff would often times keep his relationship details private, feeling as though he wants to keep it between you & him, as his own, but he 10000% brags about you at any given chance. wether that be to others, or privately in his journal. though he will show you affection in public whenever he deems necessary. by no means will he stop simply because people are around

( Q ) QUIZZES - how much do they remember about you?

oh. this man remembers everything. you mentioned months ago how youd love an amethyst pendant? 4 months later he hands you one in a velvet bag. you mentioned years ago you loved glitter pens when you were a child? the ink recently ran out on your favourite pen? guess what kind of pen jeff mysteriously gives you? a glitter pen. he remembers your order to every food store, he notices & remembers the things that calm you down, the way you react to specific things, everything,

( R ) ROMANCE - how romantic are they?

i dont even need to go there.

this man, will write you novels upon novels of poems about his undying love for you, without any form of reasoning. he would do anything for you, anything to make you happy, & anything to show you that he cares

( S ) SECURITY - how protective are they of you?

extremely protective. again, he would do anything to make sure you were happy, healthy & safe. even if it meant risking something of his own.

( T ) TRY - how much effort do they put into dates/special occasions?

so so so so so so so so much effort. he’ll plan it for weeks upon weeks, remembering every little thing youve told him you loved or wanted, & placing it into one (multiple) special days.

(A/N;)

a blurb & other lil proper works are comin’ soon !! currently in the making<3

FOR NOW, enjoy this !

[strxbrymochi]

i know im quite late but this has been stuck in my head and i need to get it out so here are my 12am impulse thoughts,,,

how i imagine nct dream would be on valentine's day;

note: this is just the vibes i get from seeing them and 100% based on my delusional imagination

mark;

i am extra delulu for this man rn its so bad

i feel like he would be such a wholesome valentine date

straight up imagined some sort of serenading going on bc hello guitar skills?? and his voice??

i'd imagine he'd gift you some sort of designer thing (just cause i think he's the type to spoil u for special occasions bc ur his girl yk screams)

i think good food = good talks = just enjoying each other's company; type of guy i genuinely feel like you can have hour hour hours long convos and not get bored

lots of laughs bc hearing his laugh >>>

feel more home date vibes where you take out your fave foods and just jam out love songs in pjs but i can also see late night walks or going to some lowkey resto so yalls dont get spotted

renjun;

this guy is for real a deep down romantic aint no way with that face and attitude have you seen how he speaks to some of the dreamies??

defs would serenade u if u ask him to (imagine him shy at first but giving it his all aww)

hands down will gift u something he custom made i do not doubt this given he made custom hoodies for the rest of dream but yours defo will be extra special and made with care <3

can imagine some sort of art date or a quiet night for the two of yalls, him spoiling u a bit cause valentines is extra reason to do so

honestly if i was on a date w him i'd just stare at him ... oops

i think u guys should do the "draw each other" trend as a gift and ur drawing of him looks horrendous (bc u are not as gifted in the arts-- if you are good for u) while his of you looks majestic but he keeps it anyways bc u made it (hearing his beautiful laugh makes it worth ut too anyways)

jeno;

ok look i think jeno's v acts of service-y

wouldn't question if he attempts to cook for you or do things for you a lot more often on valentines to show his love for u (wake up to meals and a clean house yessir-- only for today tho GAHAHAHAHA)

another one i think would spoil you with designer stuff and just imagine the little cute smile on his face when he watched you open the gifts cause he's out here looking at u w pure genuine love (must be nice)

my man's a gamer would probs challenge u to a game or two before heading out

ice cream !!!!!! i have seen 2 vlogs w him looking for and eating ice cream i think you guys will defs have an ice cream taster or smtg (he's so me!!)

idk bro i love jeno any boyfriend fantasy i have in my dreams is played out by him. TT

haechan;

nah yea atp they'd all spoil you (pls dream is full of loving green forest men)

i can imagine deep talks about your future together like wouldnt be surprised if mans doesnt just propose to you alr thats how much he loves you

clingy clingy boy and he is not afraid to show you and let you know how much he loves u !

would hands down take you to the BEST restos and yalls would have insanely good food

can see some karaoke or bowling or idk just an activity yalls can do together before going home for a quiet night of the talks and just enjoying each other's presence

where do i find one genuine question

jaemin;

royalty treatment all the way

breakfast in bed: check with four course meal, flowers: check, gifts: check, chore-free house: check say less

i feel like jaemin is a very big words of affirmation guy so he will not stop complimenting you or saying he loves you

takes a lot of pictures of you too

yk also i think he'd actually send his mom flowers for valentine's day too

staring at you for hours with that stupid cute grin of his, eyes full of adoration

would have all your wants and preferences memorised hes so attentive you actually dont need to worry or do anything all day (just appreciate it bc u deserve him and his love!!!)

chenle;

(there were like no chenle gifs wtf)

PRESIDENT ZHONG CHENLE!!!!! money moves fr name what u want and u got it, spoiled level 1000 on valentine's day

if he could go around freely i think he's the type to take you to fancy ass restaurants like those rich hotel ones (but like if not that's ok he'll spoil you through other means)

he's a menace sometimes i think he'd joke around and try to get on your nerves a bit for fun like imagine him rocking up and being like what day is it today? oh it's valentine's? what's that idk what that is. was i meant to do smtg for u? (him and haechan fr would be the type to tease u so bad) all that just for laughs i can alr imagine the look on his face

as sweet as he is i think at one point he'd either make you do smtg so stupid w him or get a random ass matching present just for the lols (he rlly doesn't gaf he's so real and u love him for it)

jisung;

my sweet sweet child (we're like the same age)

i feel like he'd be so babie trying to prep everything and making sure everything is perfect for u awwwie

tries to act all tough and cool but melts on the inside, compliment him once he shows that smile of his and he's down forever

would be the type to get advice from his hyungs on what to do but be so shy when asked (sksks hes adorable pls)

i feel like he would make you a custom gift like something you can take w u always but also get u something expensive idk unless ur not into that stuff GAHAHA

IMAGINE he tries cooking for u but oblivious kiddo ended up burning it but its ok he tried, yalls got takeout instead

OK ALSO think him trying to teach u how to dance that'd be so cute or yalls can end it w a movie just in each other's presence and u fall asleep next to each other on the couch (BYE SO CUTE IM DED)

ok that's it im done i need to sleep good night (stay delulu besties <3)

[toomanywatchers]

Happy 5-year anniversary to Watcher Entertainment! And in loo of the anniversary, @watcherwiki has organized a lil event here on Tumblr for fans to list their top 5 Watcher shows.

Any who, here are my top 5 Watcher shows!

5.) Making Watcher

To some, they may think this is an insane pick to be in my top 5, BUT if you know me, I love documentaries. Literally, the comfort series I watch when I'm feeling down is The Imagineering Story on Disney+. I just love seeing the behind-the-scenes of how Watcher runs and kind of getting a look back at what happened that year- wait... I just realized we didn't get one this year... fuck... still love it though!

4.) Dish Granted

I was rewatching some of my favorite episodes and honestly this show is just so pure at heart. The amount of creative willpower that Steven puts himself through to perfectly craft the dream dish of the guest is just so wholesome. And it’s even better that he’s not a trained chef and instead a normal guy in the kitchen which leads to some fails, but also successes. I do miss this show dearly, but I also know it stresses the FUCK out of Steven so I get why it had to go… but can we get a Professor episode please?

3.) Puppet History

This show truly encapsulates what Watcher first set out to make their company about: Curiosity Meets Comedy. It’s witty, educational, lore-heavy, and is run by a little blue guy. I’m so excited for this upcoming season especially with that premiere episode on Watcher TV right now? Phenomenal!

2.) Travel Season

Before I was Watcher fan, I was a Worth It fan. Yes, this show came out during a bad time for Watcher and many folks did not give it a try because of everything, but this show is absolutely beautiful. The idea to travel to one place and experience everything about that one place with your best buds makes this show such a feel-good show. The vibes are like cuddling up on the couch with a blanket with the fire place on in fall. It is just sooooo homey. Also the intro? Hands down Watcher’s best intro.

and my number 1 is…

1.) Weird (and/or) Wonderful World

Of course WWW is my top favorite show. I wouldn’t be here or wouldn’t have made all my past memes and edits if it weren’t for WWW. This show’s wacky editing style along with the exploration of such odd yet charming places is just peak for me. This is the show that truly solidified me as a hardcore Watcher fan! And don’t even ask me how many times I’ve watched the whole series because it’s too many times. Also my favorite Watcher video ever is still the roller derby episode as it’s editing is peak and watching the boys attempt roller derby is fucking hilarious (also love Woe tbh she was the best teacher/coach).

And that’s my list!

(btw i stole this layout from @bergoop because i thought it looked nice but also i have never made gifs before so i apologize if they look like trash… i tried lol)

[borisbubbles]

Eurovision 2024: #13

13. LATVIA Dons - "Hollow" 16th place

Decade Ranking: 43/153 [above Duje, below Tick-Tock]

ALL HAIL KING EGG 👑🥚

Stanning Dons like was not a development I expected, but here I am. He's precious, he's flawless, he's a walking green flag and should be protected at all costs.

How can you not like him now? Dons is THE biggest shock qualifier of all time. "But Boris, what about-" nope, I won't hear your flimsy suggestions - Robertoad, Sergej Cetkovic, Raiven, Valentina, Eugent- None of them were as jaw-dropping to me as Dons was. I immediately got up and grabbed a (non-alcoholic) drink when it happened. I needed one. My brain could not process it without hydration. Bro qualified from LAST PLACE IN THE ODDS, representing Latvia, the ONLY country in all of Eurovision that failed to reach the top 10 in a semi televote every year since 2016. WITH ONLY ESTONIA AS ALLIES.

Like, yeah hindsight makes it clear why made it in, but come on now. If you thought Latvia were making it before the Thursday show, I would dismiss you as a naive wishful thinker. Regardless, it was very earned. "Hollow" was a diet Hozier song, and that's basically the equivalent to gold dust in Eurovision. It was a SONG, and a good one at that. We collectively assumed Belgium would snag his votes away. Pity most failed to consider that Belgium did not have a song.

However, the painpoint always seemed to be Dons's perceived lack of charm and appeal, and that was not a small concern. Despite being a very capable vocalist, Dons lost to Aarzemnieki in 2014 and to AISHA in 2010. He always has the air of a funerary director to him, and his current bald look (which vibed as part Who / part Syltherin) didn't help matters, nor did a plethora of REALLY DEPRESSING LINES ABOUT DEATH and DYING EARLY.

His looks said ET phone Hozier his facts said ET go home.

And even as "Hollow" played during the semi I still thought he was 100% out, as Dons performed it with the lifeless of one reluctantly going through the motions. You might as well be a nondescript businessman with a briefcase commuting to their underpaid 9-to-5 job. This man's a sitting duck and he knows it, and no amount of BesaBreastplates™ is going to protect him.

But then, excelsior! Dons miraculously made it (by being announced FIRST) on the strength of voice and song and biceps and right in that moment, something changed.

Immediately after qualifying Dons transformed from someone with the same joie de vivre as a palliative care patient into an absolute demigod and icon?

IT STARTED at the press conf when he said "Latvia has the shape of a butterfly, and butterflies symbolize freedom and all countries deserve to be free 🦋🍉" and was the ONLY person from that press conf to shade Israel without any repercussions or harrassment later. (SOCIAL GAME KING ♥)

But then he followed it up with that live performance in the finale and... OMG.😍

That live is why we're this high on the list.

That live... was ALIVE.

For the first time in his life, homeboy SERVED ON A STAGE.

Like yeah sure, Dons being unable to contain his rapture absolutely did NOT fit the song at all, but who the fuck cares. Qualifying rejuvenated him by at least ten years on the inside. Once you realize the emotions stem from the pure joy of finally having made the final, after months of dismissal and mockery, and weeks of being told that he's outclassed by Mustii of all people (imagine that.). it's only human that he cannot contain himself anymore. One HAS to let go, serve, spill, and so he did and it was glory.

"I move with my face and... emotion comes out? and I'm LIKEABLE?!"

I won't pretend this was some AMAZING revelation, but like... who cares? It's rare you witness someone discover the gift Emotions live on stage, which is beyond any price. The positive transformation Dons underwent in a mere two days as the contest collapsed around him is one of the most beautiful and wholesome takeaways from this dark, depressing edition.

Also, finally, Eurovision is not in a good spot right now, and Hollow's lyrics are perfect allegorical representation to the situation going on. The EBU's decision to sell themselves out as something so hollow is killing the contest slowly, and currently show no sign of improvement. (They're professional bureaucrats scared to give up their well-paid jobs. figures.) Which almost makes me bump Hollow up a bit higher given how much resonance the message has with me right now. But at the end of the day, one must remain hopeful. Dons’s journey was a comeback, a triumph from a horrible situation like you rarely see at a competition such as this. It was a sign that the song matters, and that one should never give up. If Latvia can experience such a miraculous turnaround in the face of adversity, I think we must harbour a hope that Eurovision can as well.

THE RANKING

[chaoticdelinqueerwithglitter]

WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT THIS ENDING

First of all, great job to "Hey Smith" and Liden Films, really 100/10 at least. But this just broke me and was really depressing (so hey, Tenjiku vibes, of course)

So... On it. (with spoilers, of course)

Okay, so we start first with one of many parallelism between Izana and Mikey.

We can see what I guess is the orphanage where Izana grew up. And Manila ruins in Mikey's jacket. Pain? Pain.

We keep with this game with their similarities and their difference in what in my opinion are freaking beautiful scenes.

Of course, we needed to see how traumatized is Takemitchy. He can't anymore (and with reasons, people)

LIDEN FILMS YOU KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND THIS IS REALLY PAINFUL, PLEASE, DON'T. (or yes, because it's the traumatized masterpeice that Tenjiku arc deserved)

We have a kid Izana and kid Kakucho playing in the snow. THIS IS NOT OKAY.

But we also have a kid Izana saying goodbye to Emma and a kid Emma with the cutest face ever. WHAT IS ALSO NOT OKAY AT ALL.

Kid Mikey playing with a taiyaki before the trauma (I think is the moment when Shinichiro is asking him about having another brother, but I'm not 100% sure).

AND THEN WE HAVE KID IZANA GOING WITH SHINICHIRO IN HIS BIKE.

THIS IS JUST PURE PAIN, BUT HEY, WE ALSO HAVE SHINICHIRO IN CASE WE DIDN'T REMEMBER ALL THE TRAUMA T.T

I just love how they re-created again some original ilustrations or inside covers from the manga. Really, I jsut love it!

(and have you seen how pretty is Sanzu? Izana next to Sanzu in the same frame? I just fainted)

Takemitchy and our wholesome good best boys are trying. They are trying, okay? xD

We have more parallel scenes between Izana and Mikey (I don't have words for expressing how much I love why they did and how it, really!) Also, mytical izana in the rooftop <3

The future widow and the future divorced couple xD

THIS IS SO FUCKING BEAUTIFUL AND MAKES SO MUCH JUSTICE TO THE ORIGINAL ART!!!!

And it's painful as fuck, because Sano siblings.

By the way, what the Sano sibling eat for being all so freaking pretty?

In this house love unhinged Takemitchy that gives a shit because doesn't have anything else to lose. And this moment, this moment for Takemitchy as a character, is freaking gold!!!

(I will do part 2, because I'm hyperfocus and need to say a lot more xD)

[natalchartnurtures]

Hello, may I please have a free reading on what I will find attractive (physically wise) about my future husband ? thank you so much 💛💛💛

Here's your reading sweet soul:

You're immediately gonna like how well you guys work together. I sense your energies being so in sync with each other it's gonna feel damn near surreal. You'll absolutely love how good he makes you feel about yourself. Like you won't feel insecure around him AT ALL he will be very reassuring of you in your relationship. His energy is quite healing for you personally. He doesn't rush you, he doesn't play mind games with you none of that manipulation stuff just pure and what seems like.. unconditional love he has for you.. beautiful. And your obviously gonna fall head over heals for that 🙃

BRO if your someone who's prone to overthinking, negative nental spiraling or getting anxious your future husband will easily help you getback into reality and feels safe again. And he won't mind doing it over and over! As many times as needed :)

Ya'll are absolutely perfect for one another bro. Like. Ugh. You will be the moon to his sun 🥺 is there anything better and more wholesome than that? Gosh..

You're gonna absolutely love the "daddy energy" he is gonna exude 😏

He seems quite responsible, mature, in his healed masculine energy and super solid within his own identity. Daddy vibes bro. Hell take care of you so well!

You're gonna really love his easy going side as well.. mostly cuz you'll know that he didn't exactly have the best childhood/past so considering that his choice to be easy going despite what life gave them they made the best of it all. You will admire their resilience, strength and their beautiful transformation into the person they become when you meet them ❤️

That's your reading!

Hope you enjoyed 🧡💛

[at0mm13tears]

Let’s talk about Fearless!🫶🏻💛

Originally released on November 11, 2008, Fearless was Taylor’s second studio album and the one that really helped launch her into global stardom. It includes iconic tracks like Love Story, You Belong With Me, and Fifteen, which became instant classics and are still loved by fans all over the world. The album won several awards, including Album of the Year at the Grammys, making Taylor the youngest artist at the time to win that category.

The re-recorded version, Fearless (Taylor’s Version), was released on April 9, 2021, as part of her project to regain ownership of her music. It includes 26 tracks, featuring all the original songs, the deluxe edition tracks, and 6 “From The Vault” songs — which were written during the Fearless era but hadn’t been released until now. It’s such a cool way to revisit that era with a fresh perspective while keeping the original magic alive!

My favorite song from the album is Hey Stephen. I just think it’s such a sweet and wholesome song. I love how the country sound is so noticeable here — it makes it feel even softer and cuter! The lyrics are super romantic and give off those pure, fluttery feelings of a sweet kind of love. (and because it reminds me of my boyfriend yas <3 )

(Honorable mention to You’re Not Sorry because that song is also SO good — definitely one of my top favorites too. The emotion in it hits hard, and I love the vibe.)

As for my least favorite, I’d say Breathe. I don’t dislike it completely, but I haven’t really been able to connect with it as much as I have with the others. Maybe someday it'll grow on me!:3

Overall, Fearless isn’t in my Top 5 Taylor albums, but I still like it a lot! I enjoy the mix of country and pop sounds, and I think it has some really beautiful lyrics. <D

[readingsofgrace]

Bacolod Diaries | A sweet life in the province

We attended the Thanksgiving and Anniversary celebration at my father-in-law's church. What I love about being part of this kind of gathering is how genuine the people are. Their sincerity and warmth are truly something else. What stood out to me the most was their hospitality—everyone made us feel so welcome, as if we’d been part of their community for years. It’s that kind of atmosphere where you feel you truly belong, and it’s such a comforting feeling.

After the service, we went back home to rest for a bit since we had to wake up early that morning. That short nap was much needed! When we woke up, it was already evening. We decided to head out for coffee at Kamalig and brought our laundry along. It’s funny because we’ve only been here for three days, and yet we already had laundry piling up!

I got to meet some of my distant relatives. My aunt laughed and told me that we have a lot of family here, which made me feel even more connected to the place. After catching up for a while, we dropped by Tita Aida’s house and invited her to join us for coffee at Kamalig.

One of the things I really appreciated about the coffee shops here is how affordable the coffee is. It’s not just cheap; it’s actually delicious! I couldn’t resist having two cups. What’s even better is the vibe—it’s so refreshing to see people genuinely enjoying each other’s company. They weren’t glued to their phones; instead, they were fully engaged in conversations, laughing, and sharing stories.

It made me think about how different things are in Manila. Coffee there is so expensive, and most of the time, it doesn’t even taste as good. Plus, people are usually more focused on their social media than the people they’re with. I can’t help but wish that Manila had the same sense of connection and simplicity I experienced here. It was such a heartwarming experience to just sit, talk, and enjoy good coffee in good company.

After having coffee at Kamalig, we decided to head to Sagay Plaza for some barbecue. We ordered from someone Tita Aida knows—a trusted spot, of course. And wow, the taste of the barbecue here in Negros is truly something else! The flavor was so rich and perfectly seasoned, it felt like every bite was infused with goodness. You can tell it’s the real deal, the kind of taste you won’t forget.

After we finished eating, we strolled around the plaza to take in the atmosphere. We couldn’t resist taking a few pictures here and there because the place was so lively. The nightlife in the province has such a unique charm. It’s simple but so enjoyable. One of the highlights was this huge TV set up in the plaza, where people could gather to watch. Families and friends were sprawled out on blankets on the grass, bringing their own food to enjoy while watching. It was such a beautiful sight—just pure, wholesome bonding time under the stars, all thanks to something the local government provided. Moments like these really make you appreciate the simpler joys in life.

After spending some time there, we went back to Old Sagay because we had plans to visit Tonying’s house the next day. It was a fun and peaceful night, filled with great food, laughter, and family time.

The next morning, we woke up early to visit Tonton’s house. There wasn’t really a big reason for the visit; we just wanted to spend some time together, talking and bonding over coffee. Before heading there, we made a quick stop at Mag’s Pizza to buy a box of pizza, and we also grabbed some food from McDonald’s for Tonying’s nephew. It felt nice to bring a little something to share—it’s always part of the fun when visiting family or friends.

When lunchtime came, Tonying started cooking sinigang, and what amazed me the most was that he used firewood for cooking. Watching the process was such a unique experience for me—it felt like I was living the true provincial life. There’s something about food cooked over a wood fire that makes it taste so authentic and comforting. The sinigang was incredibly delicious, and everyone enjoyed it. It was the kind of meal that brings people closer, with laughter and stories shared around the table.

After that hearty meal, I suggested we go thrift shopping, and everyone was excited about the idea. The thrift shops in the province are a treasure trove! I was blown away by the selection of dresses—they were not only beautiful but also super affordable. Can you imagine getting a nice dress for just 20 pesos? It’s unbelievable! In Manila, ukay-ukay prices have gotten so expensive, with most items starting at 250 pesos or more. It’s just not the same anymore, so shopping here felt like such a treat.

After our thrift shopping adventure, we decided to end the day with dinner at Dadz. The food was delicious, and it was the perfect way to cap off a long but enjoyable day. When we finally got back to Old Sagay, I felt both exhausted and refreshed at the same time. There’s something about being in the province that clears your mind, even if your body feels tired. It was another simple yet meaningful day that reminded me of how beautiful and peaceful life can be outside the city.

[blackcatxmagic]

Corey's smile was so damn cute, and it just made Leo smile in turn. How had he gone into the grocery store so many times before and not noticed Corey? The only explanation that made sense was that he'd somehow missed him every time because Leo knew he'd remember that hair if nothing else. But something drew him in to the other man, the sweetness, that innocence, and Leo was so glad they were doing this. Grinning at Corey, he replied, "Well I'm glad you appreciate my terrible attempts at humor. It's true though - you are sweet, like this Mai Tai." Then a mischievous smile appeared on his face, and Leo added, "I bet you taste just as good." It was a little dirty, sure, but...not all the thoughts Leo had been having about the other man had been pure and wholesome.

In the booth, Leo kept finding ways to touch Corey, his shoulder, his arm, fingers brushing through his hair and grazing his neck, featherlight and just enough pressure to get a reaction out of the other man. His free hand moved to Corey's thigh, giving it a gentle squeeze, before rubbing it a little bit. Leo noticed Corey's bashfulness, and he was watching for signs that it was because he was uncomfortable with Leo's touch, but as he spoke, it seemed pretty clear that there was more to it. "I get that," Leo replied. "Sometimes I feel like I don't think things through enough, so both extremes can be hindering, you know? Still, it blows my mind that you're not beating them off with a stick." And then because apparently he wasn't as mature as he thought, Leo chuckled softly at the "beating them off" comment, though he didn't bring it up. "So many guys would be into your vibe," Leo told Corey. "I know it's something you're purposely doing, that this is just who you are, which honestly makes it better. Not everyone likes a bad boy; some people like the sweet ones." For his part, Leo liked all different kinds of guys, but Corey was definitely one of the types that appealed to him; he wondered what kinds of noises he could draw from that innocent mouth. Leo was tempted to call this a date now, but he didn't go that far because he didn't want to lead Corey on. So far, he really liked the man, but that wasn't what Leo was looking for. Still, he was having a nice time and hoped this would be the beginning of a friendship between the two men. And yes, Leo hoped that friendship included naked time, though that wasn't a requirement.

Laughing at Corey's remark, Leo replied, "I don't know if I'd say loads, but I do alright. I go on a lot of first dates...not so many second ones. Though I guess I define 'date' pretty loosely. Like is it a date if I pick up someone at a bar and take them back to my place?" If so, then that was a very regular occurrence for Leo. This kind of thing though didn't happen very much. "I flirt a lot though, so I guess practice makes perfect." Leo finished off his drink, then gestured to the bartender for another before returning his attention to Corey. "You know, I bet everyone in this bar is jealous of our gorgeous hair," he said, only sort of joking. "It's almost unfair to them to have this much beauty in one place, where they can look but not touch. Only one person gets to touch you tonight." As if to punctuate this statement, Leo slid his hand further up Corey's thigh, giving it another squeeze. "You know, maybe later tonight you could come to my place. I have a hot tub, so..." Leo trailed off, just giving Corey a suggestive look as the bartender brought his next drink. After taking another sip, Leo said more seriously, "Really though, you've got a lot to offer. I hope you can see that, Corey."

Corey felt a little warm under Leo's praise, his heart fluttering with both the compliment and the warmth in Leo's gaze and touch. He found himself smiling, a little shyly, feeling that familiar mix of excitement and slight nervousness. Leo’s words made him feel seen, and it was... well, it was nice. It had admittedly been a while since Corey had let himself be so open to such energy from another person, even despite it being something that he so often craved.

"Thanks, Leo," Corey responded softly, looking up at him with a small but genuine smile. He chuckled lightly at the joke that Leo made to compare him to the drink, shaking his head as he tried to hide just how endearing he thought those words were. "That's actually really funny," he chuckled, almost giggled. "It's not lame at all, I really appreciate it." The Mai Tai was refreshing, and he could already tell Leo had been right – he did like it. Was Corey that easy to read? Or did Leo have some supernatural sense for guessing drink orders?

Corey leaned into the warmth of Leo’s side, his own arm brushing against Leo’s lightly, appreciating the closeness. He looked up at the other man again, his smile growing wider as he spoke - just as his nerves did, but the compliments weren't unwelcome. "Thank you," he thanked him again, feeling himself grow more and more bashful, but trying to overcome it, trying to remain cool, calm, and collected. "I actually don't go on that many dates," he admitted. "I can be a bit of an overthinker," he put it extremely lightly, "and so sometimes that gets in the way. It's not that I don't want to go on dates, and it's not like I'm only kind to people because I'm trying to date them but... I don't know, it hasn't happened for a little while," he shrugged, only catching himself at the end there, realising how open and vulnerable he was being. "Sorry," he apologised, taking another sip of his drink. "I bet you go on loads of dates though, you've got the whole flirting thing down perfectly." Not to mention, Leo was extremely attractive too.

[lemonandlime22]

I just found your bites child Yuu, and IM IN LOVE! How do you think Neige and Chenya would take to them? I feel Yuu would either adore Neige or hate him

Naige and Chenya with a scrawny and bitey Child!Yuu

Warning(s): cussing

A/N: I didn't mean to but neige's is way longer then chenya's lol. Ty for requesting I hope you like it!

[Bitey child!Yuu Masterlist]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neige LeBlanche

You met Neige on the main road, in book 5, like in canon,

Trey and Riddle were free so they decided to show you around the festival a little bit

by now they've basically excepted their roles as your parents

than you see the dwarfs get picked on and yatta yatta it goes about the same.

Neige wasn't very surprised to see a child here, he thought you might have been a student's little sibling at first

he was very friendly to you, after thanking Riddle and Trey, he kneeled down to your level,

behind Riddle's legs,

and thanked you as well for helping out his friends.

and you hummed back in acknowledge, burying your face into Riddle's leg more

"Huh? Yuu? What are you doing...?"

"Oh..? strange, their usually not this shy"

"heh, that's alright, is that your name? Yuu? It's nice to meet you, my name's Neige."

Neige is one of the few people that you almost instantly like, he was very nice

when he went to see Vil and the rest of the NRC group before the SDC, he tried to make conversation with you as well

and you actually replied! you rarely ever did that, even with the people closest to you

everyone was quite shocked

and when he was about to leave, he patted your head to which you giggled and hugged him!!

The only time Vil wanted you to bite someone, and you fucking loved him

Ace and Grim were appalled

"What the hell Yuu?! that's our enemy! You aren't supposed to hug the enemy!!"

"Yeah! What the heck Yuu!?"

Rook was about to pass out from how "beautiful" the scene was

Kalim, Epel, and Deuce thought it was rly sweet

Jamil was just glad you didn't bite another stranger.

The reason you like Neige so much right off the bat, is the same reason as to why you liked Kalim right off the bat

they both have very good wholesome vibes that make you feel happy and safe around them.

Overall, he thinks your adorable and makes sure to visit you when he stops by NRC for any reason. People tried to warn him about your biting, but he believes that it's all just rumors.

Che'nya

Your first meeting with Chenya is actually rly funny

It the same as in canon but instead of being scared jump scared

you try to catch his head after being jump scared

he thought it was hilarious and cute how you tried you catch him. so he played along and kept disappearing and reappearing random parts of his body for you to confusingly try to catch.

Chenya nearly dies laughing when he finds out you call Riddle and Trey, mom and dad

100% encourages it

he's a lil bit like Crowley where he'll hold out his hand for you to cling onto and bite when you please

but only if your able to win your little game of chase.

He just thought you were some random ass kid that liked to bite ppl and never thought otherwise

you are pure entertainment to him when he sees you biting other people.

Riddle and/or Trey will often have Chenya entertain you when they have to prepare for unbirthday parties

after he finds out what you Riddle and Trey, he encourages you to call him uncle Chenya.

Overall, he thinks your hilarious and likes your company. He doesn't care much about how or why you started biting ppl.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[muddyorbsblr]

monthly wrap-up :: may 2023

Welcome to smth I’m gonna try this month: a wrap-up! I’ll be giving you all a lil recap of the fics I’ve read & written over the last month and hopefully this will get me to actually chip away at my TBR and get y’all on some non-Loki/Tom stories that I occasionally do read 🫡

Everything under the cut

Loki x Reader

Don't Be Shy by @lokisgoodgirl

The way that shy Loki being nervous about not satisfying Agent Y/N has me running around in circles in my living room I can't 🫠🫡

Hostile F*cks: Public Relations by @lokisgoodgirl

A perfect epilogue to this series that was a masterclass of holding your emotions hostage and giving the best payoff. And the fencing pants got a return cameo?? This had me giggling and squeeing and the second the fencing pants came out to play…running laps once again 🫠

An Interesting Theory by @infinitystoner

Completely obsessed with the dynamic between Loki & Reader in this piece. And the ending with Loki deciding that he needs more "data" to "confirm the hypothesis"? I see you, Mischief 😏🫠

The Prince is Dead by @lokisgoodgirl

The beginning had me all teary eyed and ready to fight; the end had me filled with hope and chortling at the tasteful dick joke. LGG really do be a master at holding our emotions hostage with a satisfying payoff at the end 🥹 I live in fear thinking what she could be capable of if she ups and decides to make a piece of just pure angst 😳👀

A Gentlemen's Agreement by @lokisgoodgirl

This had me having some good reminiscing moments of back when I was a Steve girly for a few months in 2015 and also deciding that Bucky's a second simp subject. Distant second, but a second nonetheless. The fact that there's even a second got me doing the Blinking Man at myself--

She is Beauty, She is Grace, She Will Stab You in the Face by @clandestineloki

The adorable dynamic between them when he caught her and saved her from tripping?? Her singing Hamilton without a care in the world? Their whole exchange in the jet after she offed 3 henchmen for hurting her mans?? I love them, your honor.

A Lesson on Behaving by @multifandom-worlds

Reader edging Loki and "suffering" the consequences? With a brief cameo from besties Nat & Wanda trying (and failing hilariously because Reader tried to go and get a snack) to hide her from said consequences? Sign me up and don't expect to be able to contact me for the next few hours because I need to recover from the smut 🥵🫠

Tom Hiddleston x Reader

Under Your Spell by @holdmytesseract

A Model AU where Reader's a photographer and she's been hired to do an underwear shoot for Calvin Klein…and Tom's tatted and pierced and--and--*melts on the spot* 🫠 Head empty all thots…that is all 😮‍💨

Bucky Barnes x Reader

shouldn't have gone by @imyourbratzdoll

This had me clutching at my heart going "why would he do this to Reader what the hell"…like no joke I needed a good few mins to start breathing right and not in the fun I just read toe curling smut way. I mean in the "If I try now I might start crying" way 🥲

Ari Levinson x Reader

Like a Broken Record by @howdoyousleep3

Ari with a plus size reader making her feel so empowered & beautiful in bed? The “I’m keeping you” vibe?! This had me 100% completely deceased when I read it while I was out doing groceries (bc y’all know me I should know better than to read smut in public but I never do and I might never will lol).

self-conscious ask by @imyourbratzdoll

This one hit me so close to home and honestly where can I get a boyfriend like this I would very much appreciate one 🥺💖

Give Me One More by @saiyanprincessswanie

This character + this trope = Ally dead in the water. Thank you and goodnight I am not available for comment at this time 🫡

Natasha Romanoff x Reader

Fall Kiss by @animnerd

Besties becoming lovers after months apart and having some fluffy wholesome fun on a pile of leaves before having their first kiss? Lemme melt in my spot real quick aaaaaa

Clark Kent/Superman x Reader

It Got Worse by @hannibals-favourite-meal

Clark being a soft lil simp for his fiance while her brother Bruce has a hilarious mix of "I'm happy their happy" and "Why did I ever set them up" is such an adorable dynamic and I need more 🥹

Loki x Reader

rules of conduct: the checkout queue

Thomas Sharpe x Reader

the final Lady Sharpe part 2: a risky endeavor

[fyeahpoc]

hi! first of all i'd like to say your theme looks gorgeous i love the mobile layout of the blog <3 second of all if it's not too bothersome could i please ask for first name and surname suggestions for sabrina zada/pasabist? i'm going for a floral/fairy/princess vibe if it helps with anything EDRFTGYU thank you so much and have a wonderful day!

*   hey   ,   thanks   so   much   !   and   yes   ,   absolutely   .   sab   is   filipino   and   chinese   (   my   research   says   she’s   also   hispanic   but   it’s   not   stated   specifically   what   she   is   -   edit   :   anon   said   she   is   mexican   so   also   consider   this   !   )   so   i’ll   list   a   combination   of   names   that   could   fit   your   vibe   😇

chinese   first   names   ↴

jiā   :   good   ,   auspicious   ,   beautiful   .

qiàn   :   pretty   ,   winsome   .

bao   :   gem   .

chao-xing   :   morning   star   .

mei   lien   :   beautiful   lotus   .

eu-meh   :   gorgeous   .

li   jing   :   beautiful   spirit   .

níng   :   peaceful   ,   to   pacify   .

genji   :   like   god   .

jia   li   :   good   and   beautiful   .

hee   :   lotus   flower   .

hua   :   flower   .

li-mei   :   beautiful   plum   flower   .

chinese   surnames   ↴

huang   :   yellow   .

cai   :   firewood   .

lai   :   to   trust   .

hu   :   whiskers   or   wild   .

cheng   :   complete   ,   journey   ,   honesty   .

li   :   the   plum   tree   or   logic   .

gong   :   to   give   .

kang   :   well-being   .

sun   :   a   descendant   .

xiao   :   quiet   .

you   can   find   more   from   these   masterlists   :   x   ,   x   ,   x   .

filipino   first   names   ↴

bernila   :   blessed   .

floribeth   or   lilibeth   :   flower   ,   god   is   my   promise   .

dari   :   grace   .

eleanor   :   shining   one   .

jaslene   :   flower   ,   pretty   .

dalisay   :   pure   .

atarah   :   crown   .

carmelita   :   beautiful   garden   .

mahalina   :   to   be   charmed   .

analyn   :   gracious   ,   beautiful   .

althea   :   wholesome   ,   to   heal   .

diwata   :   fairy   .

marisol   :   sunflower   .

filipino   surnames   ↴

adlawan   :   sun   .

tanglao   :   illumination   or   light   .

banaag   :   gleam   ,   daybreak   ,   reflection   .

panganoron   :   sky   .

valle   :   valley   .

cruz   :   cross   .

bulan   :   moon   .

lualhati   :   glory   .

guinto   :   gold   .

divata   :   guardian   .

you   can   find   more   from   these   masterlists   :   x   ,   x   .

—   drea   .

[unionizedwizard]

It's funny that you mentioned rupi kaur because she was in my mind when i replied to your ask (also sorry if it's a bit nonsensical i had LITERALLY just woke up 13 seconds before and was already #hating). Also i'll be honest part of my visceral reaction stems from my personal experience where everything that was deemed safe, cozy, good, comforting, etc. was actually a living nightmare and i kept getting gaslit about it lol so i sort of grew up with an inverted sense of values where, typically, wholesome cutesy fantasies were lies and extremely nefarious in an anxiety-inducing way while more violent (if not straight-up horrific) stories felt a lot more real and honest. i know i talk about it a lot but i think the truman show is the closest equivalent i can point at in terms of. vibes?

specifically when it comes to cutesy, hollow, forcefully-positive fiction or art (bonus if theyre riddled with the therapyspeak du jour) what i resent is their association with childhood. and specifically the false and dangerous narrative that children are some kind of positive, sheltered, innocent and stupid little things who don't understand or experience violence. this one admittedly is aimed at the "duh it sucks. that's because it's for children"

but yeah that's what you said, i think it all boils down to the presumed and proclaimed "apolitical" quality of "pure entertainment", which is crazy because you can NEVER see the political and ideological biases and pressures than in "pure entertainement" and "wholesome aspirational and comforting" fiction. sidenote but i'm reading agatha christie novels these days and it's CRAZY how politically charged and conservatively ideologically inclined they are and i'll have to talk about it at some point lol but anyway

i think what really bothers me is when something is dishonest. untrue. and comforting/aspirational/cozy fiction especially tends to do so by revealing what is thought of as inherently safe, aspirational, beautiful, and free from conflict. somehow it's always socially and politically conservative with an underlying colonial motif. huh. funny how that works. surely this is nothing to worry about though. doesn't it make you feel GOOD?

edit: also i focused on the bad ones here but i mean. as far as fiction goes, "relatively low stakes drama in a domestic setting" is my favorite sort of plot. like i mean my favorite novel of all times is madame bovary (arguably she died of being assigned cutesy cottagecore at societal exportations. comrade emma). i'm not big on action or thrillers or sci-fi or anything. it's not a TASTE situation. and honestly there are great works of "cottagecore" fiction that are not ethically bankrupt or anything, like Moomins for example. i LOVE moomins. it's cute and cottagecore but it's HONEST. like it's not simply about ignoring the world! and it's no coincidence that tove jansson was very much a leftist lol

do you think your derision for twee stuff is self-contained or do you think it's heavily influenced by how prevalent and aggressively marketed that stuff is

i think it's both. and the fact that it's aggressively presented as "innocent" and wholesome and devoid of, like, political biases or effects or whatever. which is funny because i LOVE pretty things, i love softness in general too, it's not that i'm like, an edgelord who hisses at anything pink that enters his field of vision.... i think that it's the insincerity and artificiality of it that really annoys me, and the fact that (AS ANON PROVED JUST NOW) it's generally considered "too innocent" to be criticized or even thought of critically at all. and youre pressured into pretending it's like. charming or whatever and youre supposed to be as stupid than the thing itself. obviously this is coupled with the fact these things are marketed towards children and women (yikes) hence the infantilization. maybe we deserve better. is just what i'm sayingggggg