#phoneys fandom opinions

[phoneybeatlemania]

Sorry to discourse at you, you can ignore this if you want. Regarding George's humor, this is a big area where I struggle to like George. Particularly in his relationship to Paul, but also just overall. Like, my sisters and I will make some pretty mean jokes about each other, but we would never make them in front of our extended family. There's a public/private divide with that kind of humor. If that makes sense? And I try not to be too hard on George, because maybe when you're that famous (2/2)

Anon Ask 2: ...it stops being fair to ask someone to censor the sense of humor. But I just get uncomfortable knowing that George knows that some portion of the audience will take the joke seriously and telling it anyway. And I feel like this is particularly prominant with Paul, who he has also said bad stuff about publicly in a non-joking way. I don't actually know what I'm asking here. I'm just blurting this out to you because engaging with how George's humor interacts with his celebrity is hard for me.

Reference to my post and original gif set which sparked this discussion

Hiya anon! No worries about sending an ask, Im happy to talk about this topic in a little more depth :) 

So something I didn’t really touch upon in my last post was that I do actually believe there were some Bitchy (for lack of a better term) things George said to Paul, particularly throughout the early 70s, which I think clearly went beyond harmless joking and were legitimately Mean Things to do or say. It’s not that I think these moments between George and Paul should be looked at in isolation, because there obviously was a long history between the two (and as well, the early 70s was just Complicated in general for everybody), so that should be accounted for if were going to criticise George for this. But despite the long history, I still think a lot of these things were unnecessary, and we should recognise that (and to be honest, not feel like we Always Have To Justify Everything? Sometimes people just do shitty things, and we can say that, and not have to victimise or vilify them for that). 

I feel like this is the type of point where George fans are gonna read it and think “okay so she *hates* George” and vice-versa with Paul fans—but to be honest, this isn’t really an area where I feel like its necessary to take sides. I feel like there can be a tendency to forget, especially when we’re trying to Psychoanalyse or Understand [or whatever you wanna call it] celebrities, that they’re all just human beings. Like everyone has said nasty things to other people, and everyones had nasty things said to them—but a period of hostility between two friends isn’t necessarily representative of what their relationship is really like, if you catch my meaning. My point I guess is kind of that, 50 or so years on, we should be able to recognise that Sure That Was Kind Of A Shitty Thing To Do, but theres a difference between recognising and critiquing something, and then actually passing judgement on an individual and Taking Sides, which often leads us to trying to justify Everything one person did while critiquing the other to excess. And real judgement seems fairly pointless to me in the case between George and Paul, because I think at the end of the day, they both just did Shitty Things to one another—but try being friends with someone for 15+ years without that happening. Im not saying that it means we should ignore aspect to their relationship or that it makes it licit, but I suppose what seems to be of more importance to me is that I think they both eventually tried change an adapt for one another.

I see what you mean as well when it comes to a public and private divide with humour; there are jokes you’d make in front of your closest friends/family, but wouldn’t make in front of other people. In this specific case though (with the “Paul has no good songs of his own” comment), I honestly just think this was Something Funny that came to Georges mind in the moment, and he wasn’t taking into the wider contexts, i.e music critics. And while I don’t want to Project or anything, just speaking from my own perspective I can say that irl Im the type of person who will say just about anything that comes to mind for me in the moment if I think its funny—and I get that impression from George too. I just feel like me and (probably) George are the types who just like to joke a lot, and are always looking to make other people laugh (as well as ourselves)—which kind of leads me to believe that when George makes a joke like “Paul has no good songs of his own left”, I think his expectation is that Paul is in on the joke, rather then just the butt of the joke. I guess thats really up for your own interpretation though (and as aforementioned, I think there were jokes in other periods of their lives where I wouldn’t feel this really rings true). 

I think as well, George must have known the music industry well enough by this point to be aware that sure, there were music critics and people sitting at home watching who genuinely would have Thought That. But again, if we’re speaking about intentions, I don’t get the impression that this was it, because as I mentioned before, I don’t feel like there was even any real intention behind the joke; I really just think it was a funny thing that came to mind for him; whether that makes it okay or not is up for debate (and to be honest, its your call really). Lowkey as well, I actually kind of think the people who Actually Believe Paul had no good songs of his own left (and so was Practically Forced to use some of Johns 😩) are really the butt of the joke? Like it rubs of as very dry, sarcastic commentary on those types of critics to me. 

I guess also if you look at most British comedians, a lot of humour relies on deprecating other people—especially on things like panel shows. Again thats obviously a different situation to the one George was in, but I think the general point is that when you have a very dry and sardonic sense of humour, you’re very prone to mocking other people, and that can be malicious—but at the same time, for a lot of people it really is just their way of telling jokes, and no Actual Offence is intended. 

But to return to the original point, I do hear what you’re saying in that ‘he has also said bad stuff about publicly in a non-joking way’, and I don’t really disagree. But what I was thinking with my response to that post specifically was like, there are genuinely mean things he said to Paul that I think are very-much worth discussing, but this imo just isn’t one of them? Like the way Im seeing other people respond [and this goes out to both the Staunch Paul Defendants AND the people saying “George was telling the truth!!” btw] just feels like an overreaction to me. So yeah—obviously I have no idea who you are anon, but tbh, I think if you wanted to get a discussion going about Georges treatment of Paul, theres a lot of room for that and Id be interested to read it! I just don’t feel that the joke we’re discussing here today greatly exemplifies your overarching point. 

But thats just my thoughts on this :) and tbh, I think I feel especially defensive of George in this specific instance just because Im Well Aware that his joke is the exact sort of thing I would say to people irl. Maybe its just a Sibling Thing, if you see what I mean—I think if you have a big family, everyones always trying to get the last laugh in also feel like this is an Irish Catholic Family thing but maybe thats a talk for another day lol.

[whatstruthgottodowithit]

The Girl He Left Behind [Part Eighteen]

Fandom: American Actor, RPF, Elvis Presley, Elvis Movie 2022

Pairing: Elvis Presley x Original Female Character

Characters: Elvis Presley, Addison Goodwin, Gladys Presley, Vernon Presley, Minnie May ‘Dodger’ Presley, Red West, Sonny West, Gene Smith, Billy Smith, Original Female Characters, Colonel Tom Parker, Billy Smith, Marci Cunningham, Steve Cunningham, Jerry Schilling, Mary Jenkins, Alan Fortas, Marty Lacker, Original Male Characters, Mona Goodwin, Joe Goodwin

Word Count: 7720 // Rating: Mature

Summary: When Elvis returns home to Graceland from the Army he’s followed by the headlines ‘The Girl He Left Behind’ but what the media don’t know is that Priscilla wasn’t the first. No, that title belongs to someone Elvis will never forget.

Tags/ Warnings: Angst, Fluff, Graceland, Poverty, Friends to Lovers, 1950s Elvis, Bad Parenting, Surprise Surprise the Colonel Is a Colossal Prick, Parental Loss, Grief, Fun Fairs, Kissing, Vaginal Sex, Oral Sex, Movie Nights, Arguing, Tension, Denial of Feelings, Age Gap Romance, Underage, Addison is 17 Elvis is 22, Guilt, Betrayal, Extortion, Blackmail, Jealous, Army Elvis, American Draft, US Army, Lying, Time Shift with Elvis moving to Memphis, Flashbacks, Caught Addison’s Dress for this Part, The Necklace,

Notes: What more could you ask for on Easter Sunday than these two finally fckin?

LINK TO ALL PARTS // AO3 LINK // PINTEREST LINK

@girlblogger2002 @sania562 @caitlin1996​ @literally-just-elvis-fics @notstefaniepresley​ @artlesson8892    

‘You’ll be fine,’ Addison mumbled to herself as she nervously wrung her fingers in front of her. She couldn’t believe how anxious she felt even though she’d had ample practice over the past few months. A knock came from the door but she didn’t have time to answer as Elvis popped his head in and quickly ducked inside coming to stand in front of her and wrapping his arms around her waist. Addison leaned into his chest for comfort just for a moment and when she pulled back he was looking down at her with concern as he said, 'nervous?'  ‘A little,’ she said though it was followed by a sigh as he raised a sceptical eyebrow, ‘okay so maybe more than a little. What if I mess up?’  ‘What’s there to mess up? It’s one measly driver’s test. You’ve done enough practice and got enough driver’s ed hours in. Not to mention you’re a natural. And if you get nervous just pretend it’s you and me drivin’,’ Elvis said.  ‘Yeah I guess,’ she said unconvinced.  ‘And there’s still time for me to bribe them,’ he joked. ‘Not funny,’ she said rolling her eyes.  ‘Okay no bribes but you could tell them they have to pass you otherwise your new car will go to rust and nobody wants that,’ Elvis said.  ‘You haven’t,’ she chastised swatting him hard on the chest. ‘Ow, Jesus Addie,’ he said rubbing his chest, ‘no I haven’t. I listened to your rules.’ ‘Good, because-’ ‘You’re not a charity case and I’ve spent too much on you already,’ Elvis said finishing her sentence for her with a roll of his eyes. Addison smiled though she could see the slight upset behind his banter. ‘You know I appreciate the offer though, right?’ she asked.

Elvis pondered that for a moment. He knew she wasn’t rejecting him out of spite it was just that she was proud. Aggravatingly so in his opinion. He wanted to spoil her. It wasn’t charity. He loved being able to provide for his family and friends as he could do now. He’d seen struggle and strife before so why shouldn’t he be allowed to give to those he wanted to? It wasn’t as though she was some fame-hungry phoney looking for a handout. Yet she was stubborn, exceedingly so. So he had to be careful which is why he’d planned his next move carefully. He wasn’t going to let her get her way entirely. 

‘I know,’ he said kissing her forehead. ‘Because I really am,’ she said with a soft smile. ‘I know,’ he said, ‘but I have got you something.’

He let her go for a second and Addison watched as he fished in his pocket and produced a sleek long box.  He opened it and placed it in between them. Inside it was a dainty gold chain with a small garnet heart attached to it. 

‘Elvis,’ she said in a whisper. ‘I know you said no fuss but if I can’t be there then I wanted to do at least something,’ he said clearing his throat nervously, ‘I hope you don’t mind.’ ‘Elvis it’s gorgeous,’ she said softly making him smile.  ‘Turn around,’ he said. Addison turned around and allowed him to drape the necklace around her, his fingers ghosting the nape of her neck just a touch before she turned around, glancing down at it as best she could. ‘Looks good,’ he said. ‘It’s beautiful,’ she said. Elvis nodded and then cleared his throat, ‘uh, we should get a move on. Otherwise you’ll be late.’

Addison nodded feeling a guilty feeling wash over her as he singled her out with his words and headed to the door. They headed to the living room where they found his parents and Dodger sitting watching TV.  When they entered Vernon shuffled out of his seat, grabbing his jacket off the arm of the couch. 

‘Ready to go?’ Vernon asked.  ‘As I’ll ever be,’ Addison said, ‘thanks for taking me by the way.’ ‘It’s no trouble,’ Vernon said with a smile, ‘besides you’ll be able to do it all on your own in a couple of hours.’ ‘Daddy you’re making her nervous,’ Elvis said noticing Addison’s weak smile. He had been loitering by the door but came towards her, placing his hand on the small of her back discreetly.  ‘I’m just being positive,’ Vernon said.  ‘Yeah, a little positivity won’t hurt besides she can do anything she puts her mind to and then some,’ Dodger said with a smile that made Addison blush. ‘We know that,’ Elvis said sensing his girlfriend’s further discomfort. He didn’t try to fight his family though this time, instead he changed tact and steered the conversation away from Addison, ‘anyway you better get going. Don’t wanna be late.’ ‘And when are you ever on time?’ Addison said with a smirk. His diversion pulling her out of the uncomfortable funk she felt coming over her.  ‘Always. I’m never late everyone else is simply early,’ Elvis said. ‘Sure, sure,’ Addison giggled.  ‘And the way my daddy drives you better get going or you’ll definitely be late,’ Elvis said.  ‘Oh thanks,’ Vernon chuckled as he donned his coat.  ‘I don’t know why Vernon is taking you anyway,’ Gladys interjected pulling everyone’s attention to her, ‘I mean he’s not going to sit still until you get back you might as well take Elvis with you. It’d put me out of my misery.’ ‘Mama I ain’t that bad,’ Elvis said. ‘And roosters lay eggs,’ Gladys joked though her joking made that guilty feeling return to Addison as she thought about leaving him behind fortunately Elvis didn’t pick up on it as they all wished her a final good luck.

He watched her and his daddy head out the door and then, in an effort to seem casual, he took a seat beside his mother on the couch though it wasn’t what he wanted to do. He wanted to at least walk her to her car. Say goodbye properly. Or more than that he wanted to drive her to the test centre, celebrate with her when she passed and bring her home to a great big party and a shiny new car just for her waiting on the driveway. As he heard the car pulling out of the driveway Elvis sighed earning a suspicious glance from his mother. He smiled at her and then quickly turned his attention to the TV set. The colours and noises emitted from the screen should’ve been enough to distract him but he wasn’t paying attention. Instead, his mind was on a couple of weeks ago when he had been in the exact same situation. 

Elvis sighed as he flicked through the TV channels. There was nothing to watch but then again he wasn’t keen on watching anything as it was. He was waiting for Addison which was something that had been happening most of the week. In the afternoons he’d sneak over to the apartment and she’d come after school with the illusion that she was in the library hitting the books for exams coming up just before winter break. As the key turned in the lock he sat up straighter, running a hand over his hair as she came in with a beaming smile.

‘Hey,’ she said as she came to join him eagerly. She kissed him quickly and then sat beside him dumping her bag on the floor by their feet. ‘How was class?’ he asked.  ‘Boring,’ she said, ‘what have you been up to?'  ‘Not much, would’ve been better if you didn’t have to go to school though,’ he mumbled leaning into kiss her and then down her neck as he mumbled, ‘missed you this morning.’

Addison smiled as she recalled his angelic sleeping face as he crept out of his room. She didn’t like sneaking around like they had been doing but the temptation had been too much. Though he still refused to go any further they had spent every night in Elvis’ bed. It was mostly just talking, about anything and everything, though it was interspersed with tender touches and long dreamy kisses as they both tried to fight off falling asleep just to spend as much time as possible together. It was wonderful yet exhausting as the late nights were coupled with the fact Addison had to drag herself out of bed an hour earlier than normal in order to dodge Mary catching them. Still, she’d take the exhaustion to keep those moments. It had been the safest and happiest she’d been in years, if ever, and she loved every second. 

‘Didn’t want to wake you,’ she said pushing back so she could see his face and stopping his lips from working their magic, ‘besides I know how grumpy you are at that time in the morning. I didn’t want to poke the bear.’ ‘Oh I’m a teddy bear if anything,’ he scoffed, ‘and I’m sure I would’ve been very welcoming.' 

Elvis leaned forward and kissed her pulling her into his lap more. It was deep and sensual and just what he’d been yearning for all day. When he pulled back he watched her for just a second unable to comprehend just how much he loved her. If anything the past few days had been a struggle weighing heavy on his mind. He wanted to stay true to his word. To remind himself that she was more important than the others, that to be with her in the way his body urged him to was immoral. Wrong. Yet his mind was caving to the idea. Every night she spent beside him he longed for more and every morning he woke up to an empty bed his body taunted him forcing him to yield to those desires in her absence. He was only human after all. 

‘What?’ she asked, her hazel gaze falling on him.  ‘Nuthin’ just thinking about how you’d wake me up,’ he said with a smirk. ‘Oh really?’ she giggled.  ‘Except I have to share you with those damn nuns,’ he grumbled.  ‘Well it’s winter break soon and there won’t be a nun in sight,’ she giggled.  ‘Hallelujah,’ he chuckled. ‘And you might have me a little sooner anyways,’ she said. ‘Oh?’ he asked. ‘I’m not in school on Fridays anymore.’ ‘How come?'  ‘I’m taking driver’s ed,’ she said, ‘I’ve got a test booked in for a few weeks’ time, a cancelled slot, so they’re letting me have Fridays off to get in my ‘legitimate hours’.’  ‘Are you saying taking Dodger to church isn’t legitimate?’ he asked.  ‘Well I’m not but if we tell my instructor just how much I’ve been doing unsupervised I don’t think they’d be too pleased, do you?’   ‘What do you need teaching? Put it in drive and point where you want to go,’ he chuckled.  ‘I’ll be sure to lead with that.’ ‘Hey if all else fails we can pay him off,’ Elvis said laughing with a hiccup when he saw the scowl on her face, ‘kidding. I’ll just tell him you need to pass because who else is gonna drive the car I’m gonna buy you.’  ‘You are not buying me a car!’ she chastised. ‘Who says?’ he asked. ‘I do!’ she protested. ‘Oh come on once you pass you’ll need your own wheels,’ Elvis said. ‘I manage perfectly fine now,’ she reasoned. ‘Addie come on,’ Elvis said with a groan. ‘Not a chance,’ she said shaking her head, ‘I owe you too much already.’ ‘It would be a gift!’ Elvis protested. ‘An unnecessary one,’ she said. ‘That’s what gifts are,’ Elvis baulked. ‘If you get one I won’t use it,’ she said folding her arms across her chest. Elvis’ eyes narrowed as she looked at him defiantly. She infuriated him but he couldn’t deny the tingle in his lower belly as she met him toe to toe.

‘You wouldn’t either,’ he grumbled in defeat noting the smirk on her face, ‘god damn hard-headed woman.’ ‘You love it,’ she smirked. ‘Can we at least celebrate in some way?’ he asked with his best puppy dog eyes. ‘We don’t even know if I’ll pass yet,’ she said. ‘Of course you will,’ he said leaning up to kiss her cheek. ‘And if I don’t? What then? We have one party banner that says ‘Congratulations’ and another that says ‘sorry you failed’ prepared just in case? No thank you,’ she snorted.  ‘One banner for a party?’ he joked rolling his eyes when he saw her challenging look, ‘fine but we’re doing something when you pass,’ he grumbled.’ ‘Simple and understated is all I ask,’ Addison countered. ‘You really know how to ruin my fun huh?’ he grumbled. ‘If this driving thing doesn’t work out it’s always nice to have skills to fall back on,’ she joked. ‘It’s not a skill it’s natural talent…but okay. We don’t have to have a party, but you can’t stop me from bringing a banner to the test centre,’ he joked though Addison’s smile dimmed.

‘Actually,’ she said clearing her throat. ‘Let me guess, more fun gone?’ he asked. ‘It’s just…I’ll be nervous enough as it is… I don’t need a stampede at the test centre you know?’ she mumbled. ‘You don’t want me there,’ he said trying to hide the hurt in his voice though it was evident. ‘More than anything,’ she corrected placing her hand on his chest, ‘but honey you’re quite the attraction. Think of all those girls coming to do their test all in a brain fog because Elvis Presley is hanging around.’ ‘Yeah, I suppose,’ he grumbled. ‘So you’ll stay home?’ ‘If that’s what you want,’ he said with a half-hearted smile. ‘It’s for the best,’ she said cuddling into him. Elvis wrapped his arm around her and placed his cheek on her head. ‘Fine,’ he said watching her fingers trace along his own, ‘but now we’re definitely having a banner at home.’ ‘Deal,’ she giggled.

Elvis wasn't the only one not coping so well either. On the drive to the test centre Addison tried to remain polite, talking with Vernon who seemed keen to give her pointers and tips, but her nerves were building and soon enough conversation dwindled to nothing. Eventually, they pulled up to the test centre and she and Vernon climbed out and headed inside. It wasn't too busy given the time of day but there were several young girls about which reassured Addison about her choice to leave Elvis at home. As she headed towards the counter Vernon did too, in fact, he went ahead of her taking the lead as he moseyed on up to the desk and leaned on it smiling at the pretty blonde behind it. 

‘Hi there, uh Patty,’ he said as he checked her name badge.  ‘Hi, how can I help?’ she asked looking up at him from behind her desk with a flirtatious smile. Addison watched him carefully. She had never noticed it before. Vernon had always seemed a fatherly figure to her but watching him talk she realised Elvis was every bit his son’s father. They had the same alluring smile and oozed natural charm and charisma.  ‘We’ve got an appointment for a driver’s test,’ he said ‘What name is it?’ she asked checking her diary in front of her.  ‘Goodwin,’ Vernon said.  ‘Ah yes, I can see you booked in here. I just need you to sign some forms and then your instructor will be with you shortly,’ she said handing a clipboard over the counter which Addison took obediently.  ‘Thanks sweetheart,’ he said.  ‘You’re welcome,’ she said with a smile. 

Addison mumbled thanks and headed to the waiting area where she plonked herself down in a hard plastic chair and started looking at the form. Vernon took a seat next to her as she started filling it out though he was still looking over at the blonde woman. Once he tore his gaze away he looked over her shoulder, glancing at the form, and produced a low whistle, ‘I thought the test was the hard part. Never seen a form with so many questions.’ ‘At least I know the answers to these ones,’ Addison said with a smile. ‘True,’ Vernon chuckled, ‘you’ll be fine you know.’ ‘I hope so,’ she said nervously.  ‘And I know I’m not your dad or anything,’ he said quietly, 'but I’m proud of ya. You’ve come a long way…he’d be proud of you too.’

Addison didn't say anything for fear her voice would crack though she did offer him a small smile and a nod of her head. Vernon sensed her awkwardness too and cleared his throat, standing up and offering his hand out for the clipboard she had completed. As he headed to the desk she looked out of the window to the parking lot with Vernon’s words ringing in her head. He was right. It was hard to believe that this was her life now. In August she would never have dreamed that she’d be here. She was staring down the path of being homeless or dropping out of school so she could keep her head above water. Now she had a home and a job that meant she could keep up with her studies. Even being able to do her driver’s test was something. Whilst her friends had done theirs she had not seen the point. She’d never be able to afford a car, even the cost of the test itself was off-putting, so why bother? 

But that wasn’t even the best part about it. In those short few months, she’d gotten a family. Not just the Presleys but the boys and Mary too. And of course Elvis. She couldn't believe all of this had come from him being hell-bent on apologising to her. She thanked her lucky stars he hadn't taken no for an answer. Otherwise who knows where she’d be today? Certainly not here.

‘Addison Goodwin?’ an older heavyset gentleman said, pulling her from her thoughts, as he came out into the waiting room, looking up from his clipboard as he called her name.  ‘That’s me,’ she said standing up.  ‘Ready?’ he asked.  ‘As I’ll ever be,’ she said.

✵✵✵

‘Blue back pocket,’ Sonny said clearing his throat. Elvis looked towards him and then back at the pool table in front of him where he could now see the obvious shot laid up for him. He had been trying to focus, he’d even asked Sonny over in the hopes he would provide ample distraction, but he couldn’t keep his mind off Addison. ‘Aren’t you trying to win this game?’ Elvis asked leaning down to take his shot. ‘It’s fine,’ Sonny chuckled resting on his cue, ‘you need all the help you can get.’ ‘I can play a better game than you even when I’m distracted,’ Elvis ribbed. ‘You wish,’ Sonny chuckled though he sighed as Elvis’ ball sunk into its destined pocket. ‘Not bad huh?’ Elvis said. Sonny shook his head and moved around the table looking for his next move. Elvis watched him, resting against his own cue as he did.

‘Am I interrupting?’ a voice said from the doorway making Elvis whip around where he found Addison watching them. ‘What happened? Was it okay? Did you pass?’ he said practically throwing his cue at Sonny as he rushed towards her grasping her by the elbows as she looked at him with a small smile. ‘Am I answering these in order or?’ she giggled. ‘Last one first,’ he said eagerly. ‘Yes,’ she said which was followed by a squeal as he lifted her off the ground spinning her around until he placed her down gently. ‘I knew you could do it,’ he said turning towards Sonny who was watching them both, ‘hey Son we’ve got ourselves a fully-fledged driver.’ ‘Congrats Addie,’ Sonny said with a smile. ‘So come on tell me what happened,’ Elvis said walking them over to the couch which he dropped down into, pulling her with him close enough that he could have his arm around her but not enough to look untoward should anyone come in.

‘It was okay. I mean the instructor looked so mean and he barely spoke to me other than to direct me where I was going so I was sure that I failed so I just sorta tuned him out,’ she said. ‘Smart move,’ Sonny chuckled, ‘ignore the guy telling you what you need to do.’ ‘When does she ever listen to anybody?’ Elvis smirked making Addison roll her eyes. ‘Actually, I was listening to you,’ she said prodding his chest, ‘I pretended it was just you and me.’ ‘Ain’t she sweet,’ Sonny cooed. ‘Oh shut up,’ Addison said launching a pillow at him. ‘You better watch your mouth Son otherwise her first trip behind the wheel will be mowin’ you down,’ Elvis chuckled. ‘Yeah you might have a point,’ Sonny chuckled. ‘Actually I have an idea about where I want to make my first drive to,’ she said looking at Elvis. ‘Oh yeah?’ he said. ‘Yeah,’ she said. ‘Where are we going?’ Elvis asked. ‘I don’t know yet,’ she said making Elvis’ brows knit together, ‘but I’ve changed my mind about the no-fun rule.’ ‘Really?’ Elvis asked excitedly. ‘No fun rule?’ Sonny asked. ‘Yeah,’ Elvis said, ‘I wanted to get her a car. She said no. I wanted a party. She said no.’ ‘I said it was unnecessary,’ Addison corrected. ‘I disagree,’ Elvis said. ‘Which is why I’m compromising,’ she shrugged looking at him. He was watching her with the giddiest expression she had ever seen on his face which made her heart swell. 

She still had a point when it came to the gifts. She didn’t need a new car or a fancy party after all he had already given her so much. It was over the top and unnecessary but she knew it only came from a place of love. She could see that on his face that morning when he’d given her the necklace she had been fiddling with all day, the only thing that had calmed her nerves even a little. She could see that now on his face now, his boyish features adorned with pure excitement.

‘And what exactly does compromising look like?’ Elvis asked. ‘Nothing extreme,’ she warned as she interlaced her fingers with his resting them on his lap. ‘I don’t think restrained is in his vocabulary,’ Sonny chuckled. ‘Well it’s gonna have to be,’ she said. ‘So no party?’ he asked. ‘No,’ she giggled, ‘maybe a dinner or something.’ ‘Well, I’m sure we can throw something together huh Son?’ Elvis asked. ‘Maybe,’ Sonny chuckled. ‘And lemme guess you’re not gonna tell me where,’ Addison asked. ‘Hey if I have to be put out of my comfort zone so do you,’ Elvis said.

That was yesterday and now Addison was in her bedroom as she had been a day ago wondering how her day was going to go. Elvis had told her only that it was going to be happening the following day and all she had to do was be ready by seven thirty on the dot. Of course she had been ready for half an hour and spent that time pacing in her room about where she was going. There was a knock at the door and Elvis came in his face going to one of awe when he took her in. She looked beautiful.

Her hair was curled around her face and her body was wrapped in a gorgeous red satin dress that cinched her in at the waist forcing her cleavage upwards and providing a perfect cushion for the small gemstone she was now sporting. It made Elvis’ engine rev.

‘You look beautiful’ he said trying to ignore the feeling stirring below his belt. ‘You don’t look so bad yourself,’ she said sidling up to him and placing her hands on his chest as his fell on her waist caressing it softly making goosebumps form under the thin satin fabric. ‘We don’t have long,’ he said morosely as she leaned up towards him inviting him in to something he so wanted to succumb to. ‘A minute,’ she whispered. ‘My mama-’ he mumbled though it was cut off as her lips met his. He knew it was foolish. His Mama had sent him in here to tell her to come through so they could leave and she wasn’t one to wait around when there are places to be. He didn’t know why the threat of her bursting in and catching them wasn’t enough to bring him to earth but it was like always was with her, he was lost. Unmoored and clinging to her like she was a life raft and he was a man lost at sea. Her fingers knotted in the hair at the base of his neck pulling him closer to her so much so he could feel the contours of her body flush against his which made him feel heady. When she pulled back there was a smile on her face that grew as he placed his forehead against her.

‘Come on we’re gonna be late,’ she said pressing a quick kiss to his lips before she pulled out of his grasp, taking his hand in hers as she led him to the door. ‘You’re gonna kiss me like that and then expect me to be able to function?’ Elvis chuckled as she pulled him out into the hall. ‘If tonight’s good there’s more where that came from,’ Addison giggled.

✵✵✵

Never let it be said that Elvis Presley doesn’t know how to meet expectations. Whether on stage, on an album, or in a film he delivered, and tonight was no exception. It was just what she wanted. Even though he could give her anything and everything he had kept it to her request giving her a night that was simple and understated though it still had that Elvis flair of course. He had picked an elegant restaurant though of course they were the only party in attendance. He had invited his family, some of the boys and their girlfriends and of course Marci, Jerry and even Mary on her behalf. And the only decoration was a lone banner that said ‘Congratulations’ as he had teased her about.

She had enjoyed herself though he had stayed at a distance and though she wasn’t sure why, she was okay with it. After spending so much time together they had become a lot more attuned to one another which only made it harder to restrain themselves when they in company. And it wasn’t as if she hadn’t enjoyed having time with her friends even if her gaze did keep flicking down the table to him. She could feel that familiar feeling in her core every time he smiled at her. He hadn’t relented on his beliefs just yet but she could feel a change in him. It felt as though something was going to give and the way he was eyeing her up all night made her think that his beliefs might have been changing quicker than ever. She had also thought that from the way his thumb had been stroking her thigh as they drove home after dropping Marci and Jerry off. She leaned into him placing her head on his shoulder with a sigh.

‘You’re not fallin’ asleep on me are you?’ he said glancing at her before putting his eyes back on the road. ‘Must be all the excitement,’ she giggled. ‘Well don’t go dozin’ off on me just yet. We’re still celebrating,’ he said. ‘Oh yeah?’ Addison asked, ‘and how exactly are we doing that?’ ‘Well I thought we could head over to the apartment,’ he said, ‘I mean I think I’ve shared you enough tonight don’t you think.’ ‘Oh definitely,’ she said trying to ignore the flutter inside her as she thought about the pair of them alone.

It was exciting but the prospect of it was also nerve-wracking. She hadn’t been lying to him when she’d told him it was what she wanted but that didn’t exactly mean she was prepared. It would be a daunting prospect with anyone but he was Elvis. Someone who girls dreamed of being with and for some people, it wasn’t just a dream. She wasn’t naïve enough to think that before her he’d been a saint but it didn’t help that some of her predecessors were movie stars and beauty queens alike. She stayed in that headspace for too long so much so that the first thing she did when they got to the apartment was excuse herself to the bathroom to try and calm herself down.

Fortunately, it didn’t take long to talk herself down. After all she had managed to get through her driver’s ed test by just pretending it was the two of them. That had put her at ease then, so why wouldn’t it now that it was a reality. After a quick pep talk and a once over in the mirror she headed back into the living room. He was on the phone when she entered and he smiled at her as she came in but turned back towards the wall as she dropped onto the sofa, sliding her heels off onto the floor with a thud, so she could tuck her legs underneath her. She wasn’t really paying attention to him, her eyes wandering around the apartment, but she could still hear half of the conversation.

‘Yeah, sure…. yeah thanks man…okay bye,’ Elvis said placing the phone back in place. ‘Who was that?’ she asked as he sat down beside her. ‘Red,’ he said. ‘Something wrong?’ she asked. ‘Nah I just told him we were gonna be staying here tonight,’ Elvis said, ‘in case anyone starts wondering where we are. So if anyone asks you stayed at Marci’s.’ ‘Noted,’ she said with a smile, ‘so…’ ‘So…’ Elvis said. ‘We’re staying here tonight?’ she said as her fingers danced along his shirt collar making goosebumps form where her fingertips touched. Elvis cleared his throat and nodded, ‘yeah I mean unless you wanna go home.’ ‘I don’t want to go home,’ she said. ‘R-r-right,’ he said, ‘what do you w-wanna do? I mean w-we can watch TV or listen to some music-’ ‘El,’ she said quietly. It seemed he was on a similar ledge she had been on, his stammer coming out as he spoke due to his nerves. ‘Or we can just go to bed if you want, I know it’s been a long day,’ Elvis said climbing off the couch away from her. Addison didn’t let him flee though and instead, she jumped up, taking his hands in her own and wrapping them around her. His cerulean gaze fell on her as he went quiet.

‘I don’t want any of that,’ she said leaning up to kiss him. Elvis was stiff against her but then he relaxed into it. ‘Addie,’ he breathed as they pulled apart, resting his forehead against hers. ‘I thought you’d changed your mind,’ she said quietly making his eyes open properly. ‘How did you?’ he asked confused. He hadn’t thought he’d been that obvious. That the internal struggle he’d been having throughout the night had been just that, internal. ‘I know you too well,’ she smiled. ‘But I want it to be right,’ he said. ‘It is,’ she said. ‘But-’ he protested. ‘Look I’m not gonna argue with you,’ she said making him chuckle. ‘First time for everything,’ he mused. ‘Exactly,’ she giggled pulling back, ‘but I mean it. If it’s tonight great. If it’s not I’m okay with that. But just go with what feels right okay? I’m gonna get ready for bed.’

And before he could answer she headed out of the room and Elvis flopped back down on the couch as he mulled it over.

He didn’t know how to feel about it. Before her he hadn’t really been fussed about the idea of waiting. His morals and beliefs had only come around because she was more special to him than anyone he’d ever met before. But even with them being newly developed did he really want to turn on his morals and beliefs because his body was a swamp of hormones begging him to? Or was she right? She knew him well enough to know that tonight it was different. He’d had ample opportunity to act on his impulses over the past few weeks and he hadn’t done. He picked himself up off the couch and headed towards the bedroom, standing in the doorway where he watched her for a moment. She was facing away from him, now dressed in just a slip as she removed her makeup and in that moment he knew the feeling he was having today was not only different but right.

He knew he wanted her but it was more than that. He needed her to know how he felt about her. For her to know how much he loved her.

She turned when he cleared his throat and smiled gently at him before she climbed off the bed. He strode toward her, wrapping his arms around her as she placed her hands on his biceps.

‘You were right,’ he mumbled. ‘Always am,’ she smiled. ‘But you’ve gotta promise me something,’ he said moving them towards the bed. ‘Okay,’ she said. ‘If you change your mind you’ll tell me,’ he said. Addison nodded, ‘same for you.’ ‘Honey it’s gonna take my entire being to hold back,’ Elvis chuckled. ‘So don’t,’ she said moving until she was straddling him. Elvis’ breath hitched in his chest as she stroked his cheek tenderly and then leaned down to kiss him. It was tender and languid for a moment but then her fingers started undoing the buttons of his shirt and it was like a switch had been flicked. He stood up lifting her with him as he moved around the bed until he threw her down on the mattress quickly meeting her lips once more as he draped himself over her. Addison was in just as much of a frenzy as she pushed his shirt off, her fingers roving over the tanned toned contours of his back muscles as his mouth migrated slowly along her jawline and down her neck, his hands caressing her sides through her silk slip, stopping to caress her breast. As her hands move around to his belt buckle hastily undoing it his lips left her neck.

‘What? Am I doing it wrong?’ she asked the panic in her voice evident. ‘No,’ he said with a reassuring smile, ‘but I wasn’t kidding about holding back and if we go that way I ain’t gonna make it very far.’ ‘But how are we gonna…y’know,’ she said feeling a blush creep across her face. She could feel him straining against his pants against her thigh. ‘We’ll get to that,’ he said, ‘but first, we gotta make sure that you’re ready.’ ‘I told you I am,’ she said sitting up with him as he moved off her until they were both sitting in the middle of the bed. Elvis smiled at her eagerness as well as the hint of naivety that came along with it. He knew it was silly but for that moment he loved that he was going to be the one to teach her. She was such a self-assured independent person but for this she needed him to lead. And he liked that.

‘Addie, can I ask you something?’ ‘Yeah,’ she said. ‘Have you ever. I mean has there been anyone that uh,’ Elvis said suddenly unsure as to why he was now struggling to get his words out. He thought he knew what her answer would be but the prospect of her being with another man still wounded him. ‘No,’ she said sheepishly. ‘Have you ever,’ he said making a vague gesture to her lower half. She looked at him confused for a moment before it twigged what he was insinuating. ‘Oh, no,’ she said awkwardly. ‘Not at all?’ he asked the thought driving him wild. He was going to be the first. In every stance. ‘Is that bad?’ she asked. ‘No, no,’ he said quickly, ‘it just means we need to take it slow that’s all.’ ‘Okay,’ she said. Elvis shimmied to the edge of the bed and shirked his pants off before clambering back on it towards the headboard and beckoning her up to join him. She did so, straddling his legs as she waited. Her confidence was gone now the momentum had been lost and she was awaiting him to lead her unsure of the next steps. He watched her closely, trying to ignore the fact his cock twitched at just the sight of her, as his hands landed on her hips.

‘You look beautiful you know that,’ he said. ‘You don’t look too bad yourself,’ she giggled noting the way his lips were now cherry red from remnants of her lipstick and the fact his hair was splayed in all different directions against the headboard from where she’d knotted her fingers through it. ‘Can I see more?’ he asked, his thumbs rubbing small circles on her sides. Addison bit her lip and then nodded. Elvis leaned up from the headboard so he could kiss along her shoulders as he pulled each of the thin straps down her arms until he could pull the sleek satin up over her head in one fell swoop. She watched as he marvelled at her, his hands falling back into place as his mouth attacked her chest, the slip now long forgotten by the side of the bed. It was the first time anyone had seen her this bare but she didn’t have time to be self-conscious. She couldn’t even if she wanted to as the way he was watching her was like he was a man in the desert and she was the first drink of water he’d had in days was enough to bolster her confidence. As his tongue swirled her nipple she felt a familiar bolt of lightning shoot down her spine, adding to the ever-growing ache between her legs. She wasn’t lying when she said she’d never touched herself before. Until she’d met Elvis she hadn’t really had the thought about it either. That ache between her legs only seemed to start coming around the same time he did but now she could see why people did. The allure of it.

Her eyes had been closed as she enjoyed the sensation of him kissing her body but they snapped open as his long thick fingers moved off her hip and shifted her panties aside teasing between her folds. She couldn’t see what he was doing as his mouth was still attached to her breast but as his tongue swirled around her nipple it only added to the sensation between her legs.

She knew he was an expert at this. That his moves have been perfected over time but at that moment it didn’t feel like that. It felt as though he’d been crafted for her and her alone. That the way his fingers worked deftly around that little bundle of nerves down there was because he knew her so well. And for Elvis, it felt the same.

He knew what to do. He knew how to get a girl going so he could crack on with chasing his release but at that moment he wasn’t interested in that. He could feel the way his cock was screaming to be touched. How the coarse fabric of his boxers was rubbing his glistening head raw but he didn’t care. He wanted to make sure she was ready. That she had come undone at least once from his touch before he even contemplated fucking her because he knew he wouldn’t be able to stop. That once she was wrapped around him his mind would go blank and he’d be a lost cause. Unmoored.

Addison’s eyes fell shut as he worked at her, his thumb playing with her clit as he slipped a digit inside her. Elvis watched her in front of him, trying to commit the way she looked right now to his memory forever. The way she whimpered when he changed pace or added another finger to the situation. This is what he’d longed for and yet any fantasy he’d ever had about it didn’t even come close to the scene in front of him. He could tell she was close by the way her face scrunched up, her breath coming in little whimpers. He kept going, pumping his fingers in and out of her and curving them to add to the slew of ungodly noises she was making.

‘Oh Elvis,’ she cried digging her fingernails into his shoulder as she moved against him. ‘That feel good?’ he asked. ‘Yes,’ she panted, ‘oh god, oh god-’ ‘That’s it, baby. Cum for me,’ he said as he felt her start to flutter around him. ‘Oh god,’ she cried as a wave of pleasure washed through her making her tense up around him until it ebbed out flowing through her, departing via her extremities and leaving her floppy in its wake. As he removed his fingers from her, her eyes opened and she found him watching her again with a smile. He used his free hand to bring hers to his lips where he kissed it tenderly for a moment and then yanked her forward until she was fallen on his chest, his large arms encircling her. The manoeuvre had pulled her closer meaning their hips were now very much aligned and he could feel her hot and wet against him even with the fabric keeping them apart.

‘That was,’ she said breathlessly making him smile. ‘Good?’ he asked moving a strand of hair from her face. Addison nodded. ‘Better than good,’ she murmured. ‘Good because I don’t think I can hold out much longer,’ he said and with that, he moved her onto her back his lips attacking her in a frenzy. He was right. The way he was moving now was undeniably fast but he couldn’t hold back. He left her only for a moment so that he could discard their underwear before he came back into place suckling on every bare piece of flesh afforded to him. With newfound confidence, Addison’s hand reached down to touch him, making him hiss in appreciation.

She’d never even seen one before now but her hand wrapped around it expertly, her thumb running over the gooey tip as she moved her hand slowly. She didn’t ask for directions as his moans were enough to hint that she was doing something right as was the way he bucked up into her hand. The tide that had ebbed away from her after her release was now back bringing with it excitement as he writhed under her touch.

But it was not enough. He needed more and so he reached down and met her hand directing her movements until his tip was teasing through her slick folds.

‘Fuck Addie,’ he said, ‘I need you.’ ‘You’ve got me,’ she said as she leaned up to kiss him tenderly. As her fingers cupped either side of his face he moved into position and gently edged the tip inside her. It was different from before but not unpleasant. As he eased in she tried to ignore the sting of it by kissing him and it worked as he was more than responsive. He had to be. Focusing on her was the only thing stopping him from busting a nut right then and there. It’d been all he’d thought about for months. Yet the fantasy could never live up to the heaven he was feeling at that very moment.

He was gentle at first. The first few strokes gave her a chance to adjust to his size before fervour took over. It was spurred on by the fact her face went from one of masked discomfort to one of pleasure once more. He could see that the feeling he was chasing was back on the cards for her as well and that only added to the sensation of it. His fingers met her sensitive little bud again, playing with it as she ground her hips against him. To his surprise, she had hit the ground running quicker than he expected and soon enough she was a whimpering mess below him once more.

That was when he couldn’t hold himself back any longer. He buried his face in her neck as his hips started to stutter. He could feel it coming and though he knew he should pull out he couldn’t force himself to and so he came inside her mumbling her name incoherently against her soft skin until he was too spent to say anything. Neither of them spoke for a moment. Elvis was still pressed against her, his cock softening by the second inside her, yet he was unable to remove himself. Eventually, he pulled out his head still resting in the crook of her neck as his gigantic body folded against her small one. His brain was so foggy with lust, love and exhaustion that he didn’t even notice just how long they had been laying in silence until he heard her whisper, ‘are you okay?’ ‘I’m better than okay,’ he chuckled as he pulled back to look at her. Her face was neutral but he could see the concern behind her hazel eyes, ‘are you?’ ‘I’m great. You were just quiet that’s all,’ she said moving until she was sitting up. Elvis moved too and pulled her into him, allowing her to put her head on his chest. ‘Just happy,’ he said pressing a kiss to the top of her head. ‘Me too,’ she said. They felt silent for a moment, both their minds whirring about the other, as Addison gently played with the sparse hair that littered his chest before she said, ‘thank you.’ ‘What for?’ he asked. ‘Saying yes. I know you weren’t sure but I’m glad you change your mind,’ she said. ‘Me too,’ Elvis said earnestly.

It was true. Whatever doubts or fears he’d been having didn’t matter now. He loved her. More than anyone he’d loved in his entire life and being with her felt right. Like his own personal slice of heaven. Something that good couldn’t be all that bad, right?

[captain-hen]

My unpopular opinion is that people are being soo phoney about 4x08 nowadays. I’ve seen so many posts bitching about people who disliked it back then or making fun of others because they clearly „didn’t get the point of it“ but besties…no one fucking liked it when it first aired. Very few people got why they were doing what they were doing. In fact, i remember the exact people who are now posting stuff like that complaining about it on here. And that’s fine, since when isn’t that fine anymore? 911 is very good at making stuff make sense in hindsight. At revealing their brilliance in hindsight. So, yes, of course, we now know 4x08 is that girl™️. But none of you did 2 years ago and that’s ok.

yeah that's fair lol. too many people in this fandom are allergic to admitting that they were wrong about something, or that they changed their minds about something. either they stick onto their initial opinions out of spite, or they just act like they never had that opinion to begin with. it's so weird.

send me unpopular opinions!

[phoneybeatlemania-bit-the-dust]

I feel like only Paul fans love Paul, if you have any of the others as your first fave, Paul's not your second fave.

honestly tho - macca is my second fave (most of the time) its just for the past week ive been obsessing over george for some reason. but my second fave is really paul lol

[espeon9891]

For the character ask thing...how ‘bout the Bone cousins?

!!! yEEESSSS

Fone Bone

favorite thing about themHe’s. an innocent little man,. an absolute BEAN. Also him just being like, a really freakin good guy.

least favorite thing about themGosh personally, I feel he kinda suffers from Main Character?? Like, sometimes he can just feel a bit bland and hard to relate to.

favorite line“Stupid, stupid Rat Creatures!” (It’s a classic what can I say)

brOTPHim and Smiley, probably! The two work well together, much better than Fone and Phoney would.

OTPHim and Thorn. Big comfort ship I love them.

nOTPHim and his cousins (Percival included since he technically counts as a cousin). I seriously dont understand why people think it’s good it aint freakin kosher to ship relatives. Gross.

random headcanonThis is a personal HC but he has eczema on his hands that acts up in winter!

unpopular opinionHonestly the Bone fandom is the fandom that I’m most active in and I’m friends with a good amount of folks in it, so I’m really unsure what the unpopular opinion would be since we tend to agree on a lot of the same things. Well, I guess if I had to say a controversial unpopular opinion, it’d be that Fone isnt the best cousin.

song i associate with them“Little Talks” by Of Monsters and Men (I thank the fandom for this ‘cause someone made a Bone themed playlist and this was in there, representing Fone and Thorn specifically)

favorite picture of themThis, that pic of him with a big dorky smile in the image of Smiley taking a selfie in a mirror, and him writing that love letter at the end of book 2.

Phoncible P. “Phoney” Bone

favorite thing about themHe’s an absolute GOBLIN who loves and cares about his family!! Also, he’s super expressive in his expressions and movements!

least favorite thing about themPretty much him and his behavior in Dragon Slayer. I was so frustrated at him throughout the entire book.

favorite line“God, I pity me.”

brOTPHim and Smiley! They are a team after all. Partners in crime.

OTPN/A. I personally HC him to be aro/ace so I can’t really see him with anyone. If I had to choose though, then I’d probably go with one of the fandom’s joke ships, that being Phoney and Thorn.

nOTPAgain, him and any of his cousins. Yuck.

random headcanonAnother personal one, but he has Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). To cope he sings, counts money, and talks to his cousins on occasion.

unpopular opinionOnce again, the fandom tends to agree on a lot of things, so it’s another tough choice. Yeah, I can’t really think of anything, seeing as Phoney is pretty much the fan favorite.

song i associate with them“Impossible Year” by Panic! At The Disco and “My Ordinary Life” by The Living Tombstone. (I know it’s two, but Phoney is honestly the character I associate the most songs with)

favorite picture of themThis and anything with him actually being a good cousin. Also that one scene from book 6 when his character turn happens. Yall in the fandom know the one.

Smiley Bone

favorite thing about themHE’S A GOOBER I LOVE HIM!!!! He’s a big ol DORK!! An absolute FRIEND!! I love him so m uch

least favorite thing about themHmmm. I guess the fact that a majority of the comic he’s played out to be dumb until book 5??

favorite line“If I didn’t learn it in th’ fourth grade, it didn’t need learnin’!”

brOTPHim and his cousins! I really love how he has a good relationship with both of them.

OTPN/A. Another of the three that I just frankly can’t see being with anyone.

nOTPAgain, him and his cousins. I hate that it’s actually a thing.

random headcanonHis voice is Jack McBrayer it is canon the fandom agrees no one can tell me otherwise

unpopular opinionHe’s the best cousin sorry yall.

song i associate with them“Life Is Fun” by Boyinaband and TheOdd1sOut (Ft. Phoney as Boyinaband)

favorite picture of themThis and every other time he sticks his tongue out cause bless this man I love him so freakin much

[phoneybeatlemania]

Hi, did you see Elliot Roberts' retrospective of John Lennon's discography? Any thoughts? I've seen it twice and still don't know what to think about its accuracy though I shared a lot of his opinions (musically).

Hiya @starlablog!

I really like this ask, since Ive been meaning to talk about Elliot Roberts for awhile now! Im actually quite familiar with him, since Ive been watching his Beatle videos since he started creating them! I think Ive seen all his videos so far? 

[Prefatory note: Ive seen all his videos I think, but cant remember most of them That Well, so im mostly going off of what I recall from his John Lennon video here since that ones still fresh in my mind]

Opinion time: I think theres definitely a gap in the YouTube market, in terms of Beatles content. Theres lot of people who discuss their discographies very analytically, but without being emotionally tuned in to other facets of their work (i.e understanding their works autobiographically/psychologically). As someone who cant read sheet music and frankly refuses to learn (my brother calls it “ugliness on a page” lol), this is SO FAR from the type of content I want to see—I love talking about their music, but Im always more interested in discussing how elements of their own emotions and psychologies and autobiographical circumstances etc. relayed into their discography. There are a few youtubers who Ive seen making videos focussing on their autobiographies, talking about the Controversial stuff (i.e Cynthia and Julian; Yoko) that we typically discuss on different forum platforms—but these videos are all about 5 minutes long, which really isn’t enough time to get a nuanced and well-sourced perspective on anything.

Even if were refraining from talking about their personal lives in a lot of depth, I still thinks it’s just way more FUN to discuss how creative they actually were in their music, and how they came to make their songs (i.e John telling George Martin he wants A Day In The Life to sound like the end of the world), instead of: “and then they used a C major!”. Like who cares??????? Not me :/

This is essentially why I Quite Like Elliot Roberts—because he’s the only YouTuber I know of who makes videos vaguely resembling the type of Beatles-content that would cater to me: not overly-analytical, employing elements of their autobiography into understanding them, and emotionally tuned in. Plus, he brings a bit of Fun and Personality to his discussions, that I don’t typically see with the (boring) music-analyists. 

However, I think his discussions of the band can be lacking in some respects: the main thing for me I think is that his understandings of the actual relationships between the band can be fairly surface-level, I guess. I like that he’s a little more emotionally-tuned into the dynamics between them then other youtubers, but I still think he could delve further into this element :/

I know Ive gone off on SUCH a tangent here, but this all essentially leads me to my opinion on his John discography ranking: I, like you, shared a lot of his opinions musically (I would say my favourite JL album is Plastic Ono Band; Whatever Gets You Thru The Night is a stone-cold SLAP etc.)—but again, its just........missing some things Here and There (and everywhere) in terms of analysis. Almost had to throw my laptop across the room when he demoted mother-fucking-I Know (I Know) to being just  a “cute” song. At least pick up on John literally lifting the opening rift to that song from Ive Got A Feeling, Elliot I am *begging* you (I will pay you real cash!!!!!!!!!). 

Personally, Id love to see YouTube videos with content more similar to the types of things we hear talked about on Beatles-podcasts or in books! Hence why in the summer, Im planning to maybe give this a go? I don’t think id make a particularly good YouTuber, but idk man, somebody’s gotta do it, so I guess I will lol. 

Anyway, not sure if Ive articulated this quite the way I wanted to, but please share your thoughts if you have any! :) 

[phoneybeatlemania-bit-the-dust]

I feel like on tumblr there are rabid shippers and rabid anti-shippers who go and pick fights with anyone who disagrees with them and calls them deluded, idiotic, bigoted, ect. I only follow people who are in the middle, they may or may not be a shipper but it isnt something worth arguing over.

Same anon same ^^ like what ive learnt is that some of you guys are literally just some ugly looking fish

It doesn’t really matter to me if you do or dont believe in/ship mclennon - just dont be a knob, y’know? Like i just dont interact or follow people anymore who are plain rude about other peoples beliefs - and that goes for both the people who are like “everyone who doesn’t believe john and paul are gay are just homophobic >:(” AND for people who are disrespectful and blatantly rude to the people who do believe that there was something More Then Platonic going on between them.

Like some people should realise that nobodys inherently stupider for believing OR disbelieving in mclennon - we literally just have different interpretations. Its fine. Im not gonna assume that someone hasn’t put tons of time and thought into understanding john and pauls relationship just because they disagree with me. And as much as i want to be objective, i admit that a lot of my understanding of them is just projection tbh. Like my own life experiences are influencing my interpretation of the band, and i think thats true for basically everyone else; i dont think it can really be helped tbh. So theres really just varying factors that account for why each persons come to their opinion on John and Paul. Im not saying that everyones equally insightful and intelligent and blah blah blah, because we all know that that would be bs; but what i am saying is that whichever side you lean more towards isnt the single, determining factor of your intelligence and understanding of the group (or john and paul specifically).

But going off all of that - i basically just dont bother with people who are just angry and outraged all. the. fucking. time. Like you know the ones. Its people who get completely harmless, polite asks and comments, and they start mocking them in response. Im always just thinking “stfu no one thinks you’re cool you literally just look like a twat.” - cause i understand that people can be frustrating since i get the same “do you think they fucked??” question every week but i try not to be a dick, cause i assume theyre just both new to my account and to the fandom. People can talk to others however the fuck they want to, its not my account, but tbh those just are not the types of people i wanna follow or talk to.

I am a bit conflicted with my opinions on rpf tho tbh - like ive literally written gay fanfiction about john and paul myself, but i still dont know how ethical i feel like that actually is?? I lean more towards its fine, because at the end of the day its fictitious, and i never claim that anything ive written is reality. Plus, biopic films are essentially just fanfiction, and cant ever be totally accurate - but most people wouldn’t actually take issue with just the genre as a whole, whilst they would with fanfiction (which inherently maintains that it is only fiction). Then again though, i can see an argument as well for rpf being wrong, in that these are real people, and our works do have the potential to harmfully affect these real people, and the relationships we write about.

[phoneybeatlemania-bit-the-dust]

Am I the only one noticing Linda hate from McLennon blogs? I’m thinking they got tired of hating Yoko that they’re now pushing their hate onto Linda. Like why her??

Ive gotta be honest anon, i havent really come across a lot of linda-hate 😐 like im not saying its non-existent, because ive definitely heard other people talk about coming across hateful posts about linda before - but from my personal experience in navigating tumblr, its just not something i see that often. Maybe its cause i dont typically follow that many vehement mclennon blogs anymore (like i always say tho - idc what you believe about john and paul; if i like you and youre not a dick then ill follow you), but most the accounts i follow and interact with seem to really like linda.

The most common type of “hate” i see towards linda is typically more along the lines of people being frustrated because she, and her marriage to paul, are both often portrayed as “picture perfect”, when in reality they had issues just like everyone else. I dont know how i really feel about that - because i think its good for us to acknowledge that, at the end of the day, they werent the perfect couple (because the perfect couple doesn’t exist) and their marriage had faults. But its also like, i understand why people idolise linda so much (cause she was literally just so cool!!) and i also think some people overplay paul and lindas marital difficulties. Like i dont see all that much evidence to suggest paul and linda had an unhealthy-marriage, or that they would’ve (or should’ve) gotten divorced. Im sure they had issues like everyone else, but i dont really see them as being any worse then the average married couple, y’know? And i think that they were a really compatible pair, who did genuinely love each other (and who were good for each other, overall).

[phoneybeatlemania-bit-the-dust]

I like you a lot cause you're a skeptic but you dont shit on believers, I'm sorry some of the believers shit on you though. I just get so baffled when people get so heated about others not agreeing with their mclennon opinion, but I guess thats just the internet, people will get into vicious fights over bread probably

Thank you sweet anon 🥺 i really appreciate this ^^

And yeah - my issue with the mcl*nnon community isn’t necessarily about the overall belief, cause im not saying im definitely right about John and Paul or that theres no chance its possible that there was a mutual sexual attraction and what-have-you etc. between them. Its more so just things like “oh you don’t think they fucked? well then you’re firstly, an idiot >:( and secondly, you only believe that cause you’re heteronormative and refuse to accept the truth and—” so on and so forth. And its this kind of mentality which is a large factor playing into my decision to detach myself from the community tbh - although theres other stuff, which ill post another time when im in a more curmudgeonly mood lol.

Again, its not every single individual who believes in “mclennon” whose like this - there are still plenty of people whose opinions completely differ from mine, but im still interested in hearing their commentary and id still consider us internet friends yknow :) But like, theres also lot of dickheads in the community, and ive just sort of realised - idc anymore, fuck em, im gonna live my life

Before I was mostly using the mclennon tag to connote the overall relationship between John and Paul, be it platonic or ~something else~. And I wouldn’t go as far as to say “whether there was a mutual sexual component between them doesn’t. matter. at all.” because it would imo largely change the nature of their relationship (especially from Pauls behalf) and how ive interpreted it; but I do feel like theres so much more to the relationship then just sex - enough so that even if our individual beliefs on the physical side to J&P’s relationship are in conflict, theres still so much to the emotional side of the relationship to be discussed, that it isnt actually that important in the overall discussion. And I just feel like its so reductive to view their relationship as this rigid line with friendship at one end and sex at the other - as if, if you cross a point on that line, that means romance, which = sex sex SEX!!

Like, i dont know, human relationships aren’t that simple. But y’know, you’re right anon: its literally just the internet, and its just very difficult to fully communicate through text imo - so oh well

[phoneybeatlemania-bit-the-dust]

@todayesterday so ive loved the beatles my whole life (like when i was 5 yellow submarine was watched eveyday istg) but it was only in January of this year (2021 for future reference) that i became actively interested in the history of the band and their relationships etc. And sometimes i just feel like people forget/dont realise that. Like im not saying i shouldnt be held accountable for the things i say or opinions i express or whatever, but id just like to take a second to remind people that like, i am fairly new to all this, and im not right (or confident) in everything i say - but y’know, i give it a go in answering things, and i like participating in discussions and all that. But still, i havent made my mind up on Every Single Thing; sometimes my feelings and opinions change; i havent read every book or interview; and i know a lot about the band, but i don’t know everything, and im still always learning.

[phoneybeatlemania]

🎈🎉🎊💃 you're back!

The best dressed! (I love your coat 🧥🧥🧥🧥)

The fandom is not dead, it's like energy: it cannot be created or destroyed, but is transformed 😂😂���😂

THANK YOU ILY!!! And I love my Woodstock coat too!! Its actual vintage so my personal tinhat is that someone dropped acid whilst wearing it in the 60s lmao

And honestly yeah - if the Beatles can continue to have a fanbase in 2022 then its like, the fans aren't really going anywhere anytime soon; theres always going to be an income of new fans.

[phoneybeatlemania-bit-the-dust]

Ny opinion on RPF is if the people have said they dont like it you shouldnt do it, basically. Most of the people i've found who have fiction written about them think its a bit weird but a laugh I even heard Noel Fielding in an interview say he got a bit turned on by a smut with him. But I also know like Dan and Phil felt it was traumatising and put a strain on their friendship, so I'm not going to go looking for their fanfiction.

Thats such a noel fielding thing tho haha

But yeah - if rpf is actually harming a relationship irl, i personally wouldnt feel comfortable or right to continue writing it. But yknow, i would never tell someone they cant write rpf, because at the end of the day its just not up to me to decide that - and i guess as well that fanfic does always maintain that it is only fiction, and therefore theres only so much damage it can do (although, thats not to say that rpf is entirely harmless).