popular m/f or m/m ship (usually white/light-skinned): man grooms, stalks, coerces, literally beats the shit out of their partner
news, critics, and fans: the popularity of this ship reflects a transgressive counter culture in which women and queer people use fiction as a safe space to explore dark desires π. the creators have invented a fascinating, twisted, and thrilling dynamic between these two characters, layered with history and gothic symbolism. a true interrogation of patriarchy
f/f ship, interracial ship: [displays any slightly twisted or unequal elements to their dynamic]
news, critics, and fans: um... idk this is just problematic. the creators really fucked up here. these characters are so unlikable and two-dimensional. women deserve better than this. and anyway, why does every show have to have romance these days? the desire to force romance onto shows reflects the myopia and anti-intellectualism of modern television watching
popular m/m ship: the guys get along really well and are twee, funny, and charming, or their relationship is built on quiet insight and respect
news, critics, and fans: the virality of this show speaks to what women truly want in a relationship: EQUALITY! these characters really work hard to earn their level playing ground, and it's so beautiful to see
f/f ship or interracial ship: [does the same thing]
news, critics, and fans: this is so lacking in imagination, so boring and dull. news flash! i don't want my characters to talk in therapy speak. i want my gay characters fucked up insane and cringe!! i'm so sick of flawless characters that are nothing like real life. these writers need to go outside and touch grass
gummygunk
2087
snowghoul
tangentwithtanner
dededos
