#maven discourses

[vividxp]

I've tried a couple of times to get my thoughts organized regarding white viewers commentary on how AMC's IWTV handles race, but I'll just simply say there's definitely a cynicism that is common in a lot of those analysis that is...bemusing.

[twochildreninamoteldemo]

Yes I think it's more accurate to call Dean blonde because it allows us to draw clearer visual parallels with the women Sam is attracted to (Jess, Bela, and Ruby 1.0 who are all bright green eyed blondes). Yes I also think Sam would prefer bottoming to Dean. We exist.

[degenderates]

there’s that post going around about how shipping discourse is stupid when you have a job and like yeah i 100% agree but also i spent my entire teenagerhood on tumblr and the second half of high school literally locked off from the rest of the world where we were all in a little fandom fishbowl, and because i like darker ships i unfortunately had to deal with harassment. even though that’s over now, and i’m a uni student with a job and a million things to keep track of, that part of my life is still really ingrained and when i see discourse that i think is harmful i’ll call it out (on twitter though--i try to keep my tumblr as chill as possible).

and not to be discourse-y here but as i am an creative writing major with a vested interest in freedom of fiction, and a gender studies major who can see patterns of how moral panics relate to gender/sexuality/race/etc over time, shipping discourse has gotten much more real and tangible to me. it’s not being chronically online--these are discourses that unfortunately have an effect on the publishing industry, the literature community in academia and among mass audiences, and in the study of sexuality of fiction, which is literally the intersections of my disciplines. i can’t just...ignore it.

[rockyp77mk3]

Wisdom has been chasing Trump followers for years it seems and will never catch up to them since they are indeed faster.

"Wisdom" is another word whose meaning seems to escape the rabid left. Other words that the hard left uses but truly fails to understand would be "Tolerance", "Civility", and "Equanimity". If one truly wants to confuse the mavens of leftist groupthink a person simply has to combine two words such as, "Due process", "Enumerated rights", "Civil discourse", "Blind justice", and the ever popular, "Critical thinking."

Thanks for your, er question.

[charmantevamp]

Absolutely unpredictable

Saying this here, I do not do fandom uncivil discourse. 

Technically addressed to @the-apostates-martyr @sangcreole, and company. But if someone else on the dash sees this, I beg them to read further and not assume intent. This is a long post. Something I’ve been thinking on for awhile. Something I’ve talked extensively about in all the vampire adjactent discords I am in, including Maven’s.

This is something I’ve noticed in all fandoms including all Ricean work, especially TVC. The lines that come to mind are as follows….

“Give me a man or woman who has read a thousand books and you give me an interesting companion. Give me a man or woman who has read perhaps three and you give me a very dangerous enemy indeed.” and “We're frightened of what makes us different.” (Anne Rice)

To get to the point, this wasn’t exactly a thing back when the TVC fandom was just the queer and global majority gothic and goth kids yelling on tumblr, exchanging notes. It’s the puritanical rhetoric for me. I don’t consider myself “pro” ship or “anti” ship. Merely being able to separate fiction from reality. If the straight, normie, white people can have fictional toxic relationships and messy bastards (affectionate) so can we. I am increasingly tired of Marius anti’s. It’s hypocritical and tedious and furthermore, not real. They’re vampires, therefore all questionable and you cannot consent fully willingly if a preternatural creature is threatening you. Additionally, 40 is not old. You can dislike Marius’ treatment of Armand, you can dislike a character but to be hurtful to real people is a step logically, too far and I won’t have it. I personally very much disdain David Talbot. I still think him interesting. I simply don’t post about him. Lastly, I am just incredibly tired of people treating devils minion as healthy, happy or sane or as Daniel’s end point. It’s definitely not healthy and it’s S&M af. That’s what interesting about it. Love makes monsters of us all and love drives many an individual especially in gothic horror to do “bad” things. What’s the point of liking these characters if one can’t comprehend none is ethical, they’re all traumatized and they aren’t in any capacity straight.

I think y’all are cool. Also, I updated these for the first time in a year:

[curious-minx]

I don't suckle on Mother, The Pop Maven, instead; I treat her as Friend, Not Foe.

It's silly season. It's TMI season It's unfollow everyone you know from social media season. Yes girlies, Roisin Murphy is not your friend. She's a Narsty Womxn! By Jove, I think she's probably a bit of a meanie and a rude. But my oh my-sweet heavens- she keeps making hell of amazing pop records.

I am alone while my partner goes and celebrates her best friend's one year old birthday. Newborns becoming other borns. The sisterhood of friendship persisting against the diverging lines of womanhood. And here I sit as a cis, twit scum. Wanting to dance with myself in a room with other shiny happy people. Roisin Murphy's newest album Hit Parade is giving me life. An insatiably replayable, playful master stroke of Arty, Dancey Pop. And yet we must get political.

She's only a couple years younger than my own mother. And it chills me to my compressed bones that I have noticed my own mother whom also twiddles away on Facebook, she too, has inherited other opinions about Trans People. It's unfortunate that it seems like older, occasionally bitter women are getting jittery and angsty over matters that don't concern them. And Roisin Murphy despite being a woman, a diva, shedoes not make blunt, political feminist music. But her music is always feminist, subtly subversive and alien. She comes across as a woman comfortably Alone, but not lonely. Making oddball dance fantasias for other lonely sorts. And Hit Parade does not change that. In fact it only enhances that notion. And I choose to believe that the music speaks to a truth deeper than any annoying shared opinion on social media. I believe that this conversation should transcend. "Did I disappoint you? Did I get it wrong? You sent certain signals to me." - Hurtz So Bad

The House. A track that opens with a distorted transmission of a talk show reminding Roisin Murphy that all the host knows is that she is a woman. Always being reminded that you are a woman. You are mother. Despite the fact you don't want to be a Mother. You are a TERF even though when in fact is all you are is an annoying wanker (sometimes, that should stay off of Facebook). If anything I choose to be more mad at The Zuck for making people zonk out, lose themselves in Anger, Confusion and other dumb emotional manipulation. Roisin Murphy is not your friend. She's not Mother. She's probably not much of An Ally. But she's still a hell of a heartfelt, Real Artist making music that ignites all the pleasure call centers in my head. Ring Ring! "Hello, You Are Destined To Live Your Life On Hold." Hit Parade is a tracklist brimming with one bop after another. A totally beautiful mind meld between Murphy and DJ Koze. A stunner that is bigger than the discourse.

[mayormargaret]

Howdy, y'all!

Some of you may know me already, but for those that are new here, welcome! My name is Margaret, but I also like to be called Maven.

I felt like a DNI list was long overdue, along with links to some of my other socials, so I created a Carrd! PLEASE READ THE DNI LIST. It will be updated as needed.

I'm here to ramble about my favorite things and share things I like, so if you're looking for someone to participate in your discourse, keep looking. I don't want any part of it, because I'm here to have fun (save for the occasional signal boost).

Oh yeah, one more thing. I have four other blogs:

@incorrect-animal-crossing-quotes (my incorrect quotes blog)

@minecraftmavenmode (my Minecraft Story Mode sideblog)

@professor-simp-amore (my Sycamore obsession blog, not very active)

@your-fave-wears-makeup (my "your fave" blog)

Alright, that's about it. Thanks for listening, and see you on Tumblr!

[indiawiki]

Digital Diplomacy: Navigating International Relations in the Age of Cyber Warfare by Atul Pagyal

In our interconnected global landscape, digital diplomacy emerges as an indispensable tool for navigating the complexities of international relations amidst the looming specter of cyber warfare. "Digital Diplomacy: Navigating International Relations in the Age of Cyber Warfare" penned by Atul Pagyal offers a profound journey into the ever-evolving realm of cyber diplomacy, furnishing readers with invaluable insights into the nuanced challenges and intricacies of modern diplomacy in our digitally-driven era.

Here's what awaits readers within the pages of this enlightening tome:

Introduction: Embark on a journey with an introductory overview of digital diplomacy, illuminating its escalating significance in international relations and setting the stage for deeper exploration.

The Rise of Cyber Diplomacy: Delve into the historical evolution and burgeoning prominence of cyber diplomacy, charting its trajectory and understanding its pivotal role in shaping global relations.

Case Studies: Cyber Attacks and International Responses: Navigate through detailed case studies dissecting notable cyber attacks and the ensuing international responses, unraveling diplomatic implications and strategic countermeasures.

Digital Surveillance and Privacy Concerns: Probe into the labyrinthine challenges posed by digital surveillance and privacy infringements within diplomatic arenas, and explore international efforts to mitigate these concerns.

The Role of Social Media in Modern Diplomacy: Analyze the profound impact of social media on contemporary diplomatic endeavors, discerning its opportunities, challenges, and reverberations on international relations.

Future Trends: AI and Blockchain in Diplomatic Relations: Peer into the horizon of diplomatic evolution, as we explore the burgeoning applications of AI and blockchain technologies in shaping future diplomatic landscapes.

Conclusion: Synthesize key insights gleaned from the exploration and indulge in a reflective discourse on the trajectory of digital diplomacy in an increasingly interconnected and digitally-driven global milieu.

Who stands to gain from the wisdom encapsulated within these pages? Diplomats, policymakers, international relations mavens, cybersecurity stalwarts, scholars, students, and all who harbor a curiosity for unraveling the labyrinthine complexities of digital diplomacy and its profound impact on shaping the course of international relations in an era fraught with cyber perils.

Introduction

Overview of Digital Diplomacy

Significance in International Relations

The Rise of Cyber Diplomacy

Evolution and Development

Importance in Shaping International Relations

Case Studies: Cyber Attacks and International Responses

Notable Cyber Attacks

Diplomatic Implications and Strategies

Digital Surveillance and Privacy Concerns

Challenges and Concerns

International Efforts and Responses

The Role of Social Media in Modern Diplomacy

Impact and Influence

Opportunities and Challenges

Future Trends: AI and Blockchain in Diplomatic Relations

Potential Applications of AI and Blockchain

Implications for the Future of Digital Diplomacy

Conclusion

Key Insights and Findings

Reflection on the Future of Digital Diplomacy

[umairahmad519]

#Botwars Blog

Absolutely, here's a more captivating version of your content:

Unleashing the Power of Innovation: Embracing the Bot Wars Revolution

Step into the dynamic realm of technology where innovation takes center stage in the captivating saga known as Bot Wars. Far from a bleak battleground, this phenomenon epitomizes a thrilling era of discovery where imagination, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology converge to shape the future.

The Genesis: From Idea to Innovation The genesis of Bot Wars sprang from a seed of imagination—harnessing the formidable prowess of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to unravel intricate challenges and streamline operations. What began as pioneering experiments in machine learning and robotics has blossomed into a global movement led by tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and visionaries pushing the boundaries of possibility.

Empowering Solutions: Redefining Possibilities At the heart of Bot Wars lies a passion for tackling real-world problems head-on. From revolutionizing healthcare and logistics to reshaping finance and education, bots are revolutionizing efficiency, decision-making, and unleashing new realms of potential. Envision a world where bots accelerate medical diagnoses, optimize sustainable supply chains, and democratize education with personalized learning experiences.

Collaboration Sparks Innovation: Uniting Minds for Breakthroughs Central to the Bot Wars narrative is a vibrant spirit of collaboration. Diverse teams, armed with expertise in AI, robotics, design, and business, converge to craft groundbreaking solutions. Hackathons, competitions, and collaborative ventures fuel the rapid evolution of bots, nurturing a culture of relentless learning and innovation.

Human-Machine Synergy: Amplifying Human Potential Contrary to dystopian fears, Bot Wars illuminate the power of synergy between humans and machines. Bots amplify human capabilities, handling mundane tasks, processing vast data troves, and offering actionable insights that empower decision-makers. This symbiotic partnership liberates human ingenuity to focus on creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, heralding a more enriching and productive workforce.

Ethical Imperatives: Pioneering Responsible Innovation As Bot Wars expand their horizons, ethical considerations take center stage. Discourses on data privacy, algorithmic fairness, and societal impacts of automation propel responsible innovation forward. Ethical frameworks, transparent AI algorithms, and inclusive design ethos ensure that Bot Wars contribute positively to society while mitigating potential risks.

Joining the Revolution: A Call to Action Whether you're a seasoned tech maven, a budding entrepreneur, or simply captivated by the technology of tomorrow, Bot Wars beckon you to explore and contribute. Engage with vibrant communities, immerse in enriching workshops, and dive into exhilarating hackathons to unlock your creativity and shape the next wave of innovation.

In closing, Bot Wars transcend mere conflict; they symbolize a beacon of progress and promise. With collaboration, innovation, and ethical foresight as guiding stars, let's harness the transformative potential of bots to craft a brighter, inclusive future.

Embrace the revolution. Embrace Bot Wars.

[jackjame1]

Unraveling the Mystery: Navigating the Dynamic World of Trend Now

In the vast ocean of social media, there exists a phenomenon that dictates the ebb and flow of online discourse: trend now. It's the pulse of the digital world, the heartbeat of what's popular, and the driving force behind viral sensations. In this comprehensive blog post, we'll dive deep into the intricacies of trend now, exploring its origins, its impact on digital culture, and how individuals and businesses can harness its power for success.

Chapter 1: The Genesis of Trend Now

Trend now isn't just a fleeting moment; it's a dynamic force that constantly evolves and adapts. Understanding its roots is crucial to deciphering its significance in today's digital landscape. From the early days of social media platforms to the present era of influencers and algorithmic feeds, trend now has undergone a remarkable transformation, shaping the way we consume content and interact with one another online.

Chapter 2: Decoding the Anatomy of Trend Now

What exactly makes something trend now? Is it sheer luck, strategic planning, or a combination of both? In this chapter, we'll dissect the anatomy of trend now, examining the key factors that contribute to its emergence. From the power of user-generated content to the influence of algorithmic recommendations, we'll uncover the hidden mechanisms behind viral trends and explore how they capture the collective imagination of online audiences.

Chapter 3: The Rise of Micro-Trends

In an era defined by short attention spans and rapid-fire content consumption, micro-trends have emerged as a dominant force in the world of trend now. These fleeting phenomena may last only a few hours or days, but their impact can be profound, sparking conversations, driving engagement, and shaping online culture in unexpected ways. In this chapter, we'll explore the rise of micro-trends and their implications for content creators, marketers, and social media users alike.

Chapter 4: Navigating the Trend Now Landscape

For individuals and businesses looking to ride the wave of trend now, navigating the ever-changing landscape of social media can be a daunting task. In this chapter, we'll provide practical strategies for staying ahead of the curve, from monitoring trending topics and hashtags to leveraging user-generated content and real-time marketing opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned social media maven or a digital novice, these tips and tricks will help you harness the power of trend now to elevate your online presence.

Chapter 5: Case Studies in Trend Now Success

From viral memes to viral marketing campaigns, there are countless examples of trend now success stories that have captured the imagination of online audiences and propelled brands to new heights. In this chapter, we'll examine some of the most notable case studies in trend now success, analyzing what made them resonate with audiences and how they leveraged the power of viral trends to achieve their goals. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned marketer, these real-world examples will inspire you to think outside the box and harness the power of trend now to drive results for your brand.

Chapter 6: The Future of Trend Now

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: trend now shows no signs of slowing down. From the rise of new social media platforms to advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning, the landscape of trend now is constantly evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities for content creators, marketers, and brands. In this final chapter, we'll gaze into the crystal ball and explore what the future holds for trend now, offering insights and predictions to help you stay ahead of the curve in the ever-changing world of social media.

Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Trend Now

In a world where attention is the most valuable currency, trend now reigns supreme as the ultimate arbiter of online influence. By understanding its origins, decoding its anatomy, and navigating its ever-changing landscape, individuals and businesses can harness its power to drive engagement, spark conversations, and elevate their online presence to new heights. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to embrace the power of trend now and ride the wave of digital success.

[zaynsilmi]

Zayn Silmi on Inspiring Retail - The Creative Force of Marketing Experts in Apparel

Zayn Silmi California

In the rapid-fire realm of retail where trends shift with the seasons, experts like Zayn Silmi California are using their inventiveness to revolutionize the landscape. Amid a sea of choices, these trailblazers are the architects of success stories captivating consumers and defining the fashion narrative. The vibrant crossroads of design and marketing has given rise to a new epoch in retail, one where originality triumphs over traditional approaches.

In the realm of apparel, marketing is not merely about showcasing products; it's about crafting an experience. Marketing experts recognize that in a market flooded with options, the key to standing out lies in storytelling. They understand that consumers seek more than just garments; they crave narratives that resonate with their individuality. As a result, the lines between promotion and artistry are becoming increasingly blurred.

Creativity, a formidable weapon in the marketer's arsenal, is not just confined to visual aesthetics. The narrative woven around a clothing line is a delicate dance of emotions and aspirations. It's about transcending the mundane and instilling a sense of identity in the consumer. This approach challenges the traditional norms of advertising, where statistics and figures take a backseat to the evocative power of a well-crafted story.

In the fast-paced world of retail, professionals like Zayn Silmi California are akin to contemporary narrators, leveraging their expertise to shape narratives that mirror the spirit of the times. The true test of their skills lies not only in deciphering the current market pulse but also in forecasting its future rhythm. By staying attuned to societal changes, they skillfully navigate the precarious equilibrium between convention and novelty. Their campaigns transcend mere product sales, connecting with the collective mindset, and guiding the discourse in a manner that echoes with the public at large.

The ever-evolving nature of fashion demands a nimble approach from marketing experts. In a world where trends are as transient as a summer breeze, successful campaigns are the result of foresight and adaptability. These mavens of marketing understand that consumer tastes are like shifting sands, and staying ahead requires not just keeping up with the trends but anticipating the next big wave.

While data and analytics have their place in the retail ecosystem, marketing experts in the apparel industry rely more on intuition than on spreadsheets. Their canvas is the ever-changing landscape of human desires and aspirations, and their brushes are dipped in the hues of emotion. This intuitive approach to marketing challenges the conventional reliance on numerical data and statistical analysis.

The realm of retail extends beyond being merely a showcase for products; it's a grand stage where professionals like Zayn Silmi California orchestrate immersive experiences. Every facet, from the store's ambiance to the stories woven through advertisements, is diligently curated to resonate with consumers on a profound level. The intention transcends the simple selling of attire, striving instead to plunge the consumer into a universe where the garments transform into a seamless part of their self-expression.

In this realm of creative expression, marketing is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. The approach that resonates with one demographic may fall flat with another. Successful marketing experts understand the nuances of diverse consumer bases and tailor their strategies accordingly. It's a delicate dance that requires a deep understanding of cultural, social, and economic factors.

The power of storytelling extends beyond traditional advertising channels. Social media has emerged as a potent tool for marketing experts to engage directly with consumers. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become virtual runways where fashion narratives unfold in real-time. Through captivating visuals and relatable content, marketing experts are cultivating communities around their brands, transforming consumers into loyal disciples.

As the narrative in apparel marketing transforms from a monologue to a dialogue, the traditional lines separating creators and consumers are blurring. This interactive landscape is now navigated by marketing professionals like Zayn Silmi California, who adeptly harness user-generated content and consumer feedback to tailor their strategies, fostering an engaging, reciprocal relationship with the target audience.

In this age of inclusivity, marketing experts are championing diversity as more than just a buzzword. Recognizing the power of representation, they are reshaping the narrative to be more reflective of the myriad identities that comprise their audience. The days of exclusive and narrow portrayals of beauty are giving way to campaigns that celebrate individuality. In doing so, marketing experts are not only selling products but also fostering a sense of belonging among consumers who see themselves mirrored in the stories being told.

The digital age has not only transformed the way marketing experts reach their audience but has also given rise to a new breed of influencers. These social media tastemakers wield considerable influence, and savvy marketing experts are quick to recognize the potential for collaboration. In an era where authenticity and relatability reign supreme, influencers serve as conduits between brands and consumers. The ability to seamlessly integrate a brand into the narrative of an influencer's life has become a powerful tool in the arsenal of marketing experts.

In the pursuit of inspiration, marketing experts are not tethered solely to the fashion world. The cross-pollination of ideas from diverse sources is becoming a hallmark of successful campaigns. From art and music to cultural movements, the eclectic influences that permeate marketing strategies are as varied as the fabrics they promote. This dynamic approach not only keeps campaigns fresh and relevant but also ensures that marketing experts remain at the forefront of cultural conversations.

In the dynamic realm of apparel marketing, industry pioneers like Zayn Silmi California steer the narrative, painting a rich tableau of authenticity, diversity, and adaptability. Their canvas, extending beyond the traditional avenues of advertising, captures a vivid landscape of changing consumer preferences. As they deftly navigate this ever-evolving industry, these marketers infuse intuition and storytelling to redefine retail's essence. In their hands, conventional marketing strategies give way to compelling tales that echo in the hearts and minds of a varied and discerning audience.

[your-fave-wears-makeup]

Hi there! Welcome to Your Fave Wears Makeup. I've always wanted to do a "your fave" blog, so here it is!

Submission rules:

No real people. However, characters portrayed in live action are okay.

Any character request should include a transparent image of said character.

When submitting a character, please specify where they are from.

PLEASE DO NOT START DRAMA.

Continuing from Rule 4, if a character or piece of media is one you personally find problematic, please block that tag. I'm here to have fun, not to participate in any drama.

And finally, here's the flag:

There aren't any specific meanings to the colors. They're inspired by the eyeshadow colors I personally have.

Let's see... That's about it!

Oh yeah, one more thing: The DNI list.

Racists

Sexists

Homophobes

Transphobes (ESPECIALLY TERFS)

Ableists

Proshippers/MAPs/etc

Ace/aro exclusionists

Gatekeepers (i.e. you believe that you can't be X if you're already Y)

Discourse blogs

Nazis

Anyone that's here to start drama (see Rule 5)

Okay, now that's it. See you on Tumblr!

- Mod Maven

[twochildreninamoteldemo]

dean winchester tops his baby brother and bottoms for his daddy

[degenderates]

I don't want to be insensitve but there this woman book reviewer who got upset at women writing M/M claiming they were glorifying abusive relationships, fethizing queer men and they had internalized misogyny. I unfollowed but I still can't get her words out of my head. Is she right?

i'm gonna be completely honest, all three of those arguments from that reviewer are red flags to me. somehow many female book & fanfic readers find a way to demonize other female readers and writers of m/m romance and erotica with the same stupid arguments. so let's break it down:

"fetishizing queer men"

this is one of the most common takes i see from people who are against women creating and consuming m/m content. it's also blatantly false. there are many reasons why a woman might want to read m/m romance or sex - it's a reprieve from politicized male/female sex roles; if it's fanfiction, there are more well-developed male characters in whatever media it is; and men are sexy so of course they like the idea of men having sex with each other. it only becomes fetishizing if you go up to real life queer couples and expect them to perform for you, like how men expect lesbians to have sex just so that they can watch. those are real lesbians, real gay men - not fictional characters.

also there's the matter that some women relate more to male characters egg moment and are attracted to men, hence m/m. projection onto fictional characters is almost always to some degree involved in storytelling. reading m/m helped me as a trans man realize that i was trans, so i'm grateful for that, and the idea that women or closeted trans+ people are simply fetishizing stories that they relate to for whatever reason seems a little transphobic to me.

"internalized misogyny"

why? because they read m/m and not m/f? newsflash to the people out there who say this, but m/f makes a lot of queer people incredibly uncomfortable, and many female m/m writers are queer.

okay, so why not read or write f/f? i don't know, i'm still working on my gender, women's and sexuality studies degree, but i have noticed a trend that m/m stories tend to be darker and kinkier while f/f ones are desexualized and almost "sterilized" to the point where interactions are barely romantic and a kiss is a huge deal but sex would corrupt the story. i think this has a lot to do with the way that society sees queer men and women, the former as evil and hypersexual and the latter as invisible despite having more onscreen representation. sapphics can get away with more rep because they aren't seen as much of a threat as queer men are (queer men destabilize masculinity and the patriarchy; queer women are ignored in their sexuality because straights can't get the idea that women don't need men).

my point of that being that i do think there needs to be more f/f, especially kinkier f/f and darker sapphic stories that aren't just "uwu lets hold hands and kiss in our cottage" not that that's a bad thing but right now it's the only thing. and so queer women don't feel that erotica is welcome in that genre. THIS IS JUST MY THEORY THO TAKE IT WITH A GRAIN OF SALT

"glorifying abusive relationships"

this is far by the stupidest argument imo. it sounds blatantly homophobic, implying that relationships between queer men are inherently toxic or abusive, see again my previous assertion about the way society sees queer men.

but if people do choose to write about abuse, a lot of the times it comes from their own experiences or otherwise a way to solidify abstract feelings of being used, out of control, oppressed, and other situations. those people shouldn't be demonized. demonizing dark fiction is anti-survivor, anti-feminist, and anti-queer.

not to mention that enemies to lovers and general kinky scenarios are often conflated with abuse. as that classic tumblr post says, is it really ETL if they haven't tried to kill each other at least once? imho people use “ETL” wayyy too liberally these days, like to talk about school rivals or mildly disliking someone. and i wouldn't be surprised if that's what OP was talking about. i'd have to see the og post to know.

---

so that's my 2 cents. also this could be a whole essay but majority of the time, these arguments especially in conjunction with each other tend to be terf dogwhistles, or baby terfs on their way down the pipeline. and it's especially a problem on tiktok nowadays, i've noticed. i hope this manages to get some of that out of your head, anon<3 and to anyone else who has been thinking about this lately!

[birdmans]

[anniekoh]

Digital Black Feminism by Catherine Knight Steele (2021)

Black women are at the forefront of some of this century’s most important discussions about technology: trolling, online harassment, algorithmic bias, and influencer culture. But, Catherine Knight Steele argues that Black women’s relationship to technology began long before the advent of Twitter or Instagram. To truly “listen to Black women,” Steele points to the history of Black feminist technoculture in the United States and its ability to decenter white supremacy and patriarchy in a conversation about the future of technology. Using the virtual beauty shop as a metaphor, Digital Black Feminism walks readers through the technical skill, communicative expertise, and entrepreneurial acumen of Black women’s labor—born of survival strategies and economic necessity—both on and offline. Positioning Black women at the center of our discourse about the past, present, and future of technology, Steele offers a through-line from the writing of early twentieth-century Black women to the bloggers and social media mavens of the twenty-first century. She makes connections among the letters, news articles, and essays of Black feminist writers of the past and a digital archive of blog posts, tweets, and Instagram stories of some of the most well-known Black feminist writers of our time. Linking narratives and existing literature about Black women’s technology use in the nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first century, Digital Black Feminism traverses the bounds between historical and archival analysis and empirical internet studies, forcing a reconciliation between fields and methods that are not always in conversation.  As the work of Black feminist writers now reaches its widest audience online, Steele offers both hopefulness and caution on the implications of Black feminism becoming a digital product.

Bodyminds Reimagined: (Dis)ability, Race, and Gender in Black Women’s Speculative Fiction by Sami Schalk (2018)

In Bodyminds Reimagined Sami Schalk traces how black women’s speculative fiction complicates the understanding of bodyminds—the intertwinement of the mental and the physical—in the context of race, gender, and (dis)ability. Bridging black feminist theory with disability studies, Schalk demonstrates that this genre’s political potential lies in the authors’ creation of bodyminds that transcend reality’s limitations. She reads (dis)ability in neo-slavery narratives by Octavia Butler (Kindred) and Phyllis Alesia Perry (Stigmata) not only as representing the literal injuries suffered under slavery, but also as a metaphor for the legacy of racial violence. The fantasy worlds in works by N. K.Jemisin, Shawntelle Madison, and Nalo Hopkinson—where werewolves have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and blind demons can see magic—destabilize social categories and definitions of the human, calling into question the very nature of identity. In these texts, as well as in Butler’s Parable series, able-mindedness and able-bodiedness are socially constructed and upheld through racial and gendered norms. Outlining (dis)ability’s centrality to speculative fiction, Schalk shows how these works open new social possibilities while changing conceptualizations of identity and oppression through non-realist contexts.”

The cover art is by Tahir Carl Karmali.

Read and listen to interviews with Dr. Schalk about the book:

Black Perspectives Blog Interview

Black Agenda Report New Book Forum Interview

New Books Network Podcast Interview

Imagine Otherwise Podcast Interview