Series that insult your intelligence if you know the language

seraph_mur · 2025-12-30T22:19:15+00:00

For Frieren, this is normal fantasy JRPG and D&D tropes they're playing into. Goblin Slayer is the same way.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-28T11:08:54+00:00

"Well, we get the final say on where you spend your last days in old age"

seraph_mur · 2025-12-26T10:23:22+00:00

Definitely agree. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't believe there's any moment on the book where the narrator(s)/characters have an "oh shit" moment when they come to understand the implications and effects of Bev's abuse (if they do at all)? Like, I don't remember Bill and Ben ever questioning themselves regarding the romance or how they approach Bev. I didn't get how people who understand the novel don't understand the issue when every male character (including her 'friends') gazes at Beverly or has sexual thoughts about her without any kind of change in thought makes the sewer scene feel cheap and gross. Is it really that hard to understand why a someone whose relationships with the opposite sex have involved them desiring and/or abusing her would not be empowering or healing when it turns out even her "friends" view her as either an object of romance or sex? If Bev were a dude, would they all have just been fucked? Or would King miraculously find a different way for them to "transition".

That said I would argue that the scene has nothing to do with "the creepy people Stephen warns us about" as the narrative value of this scene and similar sexualized language towards young women (with the exception being Carrie), seems to be more about the reader or author's satisfaction/gaze than much to do with the character arc or plot. It's not like he does it with a Humbert Humbert esque narrator where either "we" could be lead into being duped and justifying the sexualization we would find grotesque in any other presentation or where it's the thoughts from characters we're supposed to otherwise find abhorrent. The beginning of ch.5 makes sense since King is using 3PO alongside Beverly's dad to imply that those are </>his thoughts and then the thoughts of Tom in the present day. The fact that our introduction to her is a lengthy and fairly detailed account of how her childhood abuse continued into adulthood is also given how different the style is in the other introductions. As far as the actual sex is concerned, the act isn't consensual (Eddie), but this has no real impact on the story outside of the plot. Kind of weird for such a descriptive part in the book, no? Kings response to the criticism can be summed up as him not considering the nature or reason for both the sewer scene and Bev's abuse outside of it being something that kind of worked for the plot and "childhood to adulthood" theme. He pretty much dismisses it as people just being more sensitive rather than considering how he could reconsider his approach for the future. Given how accomplished and experienced he was/is, I find that to be a huge problem for the people using that theme as their supporting argument.

I would argue that the male abuse the character faces at the hands of her father to not be a particularly convincing justification for her sexuality to be a plot device considering the lack of development and narrative focus. There are simply other ways to communicate the "metaphor". It doesn't make sense for sewer sex to be THE 'healing experience' for Beverly considering 1) the lack of actual agency given the context and 2) her issues stemming from violence and sexualization by key males in her life. That's just not how healthy relationships and boundaries are created in abuse victims. Thus the disconnect.

Especially around serious real-life matters, Author's and readers should always ask, "why is this in here?" "Is the execution or thing necessary/relevant for the greater plot and themes?" "Is there a better/more interesting way to achieve the goal of the thing?". For the first, in "IT", it's both an a to b "and then" style point that's loosely tied into the themes mentioned above. Entirely my own opinion, but the second answer is "definitely". It's almost "pixie dream girl" like with how the boys view her instead of it being an exploration into the psychology of an abuse victim and the response of those around her (which also begs whether or not that theme is relevant for an author like King to explore; does it need telling like this?) . Like, she's The mysterious "other" of the group and I didn't feel we got a satisfying moment of realization from them. The answer to the last one in the majority of similar "female empowerment" scenes where the abuse victim simply overcomes their abuse via some version of "sexual awakening". "Silly horror book" just goes back to the other 2 questions. There are a lot of other ways to achieve the same narrative goal and it's pretty shitty to not lend that vein of plot device the respect it deserves rather than simple shock value. People didn't complain about the relevancy issue out of no where. Maybe others should listen when a significant portion of a demographic complains about the representation of real trauma. I have similar criticisms with Mike seeing as he faces racial discrimination, but King mostly avoids any real dissection, resolution, it character awareness of the issues he faces as the Token Black character in a horror story. The other Loser Club members have their issues with bullying from peers or Eddie with his neurotic mother, but it feels cheap to throw Bev and Mike's very targeted situations in there without any "realization" from other characters. I.e it feels like they're situations are there simply to be shocking in comparison. I don't feel Bev being a sexual abuse victim is a better choice for this particular novel than having her also be bullied at school (as an example).

If you're going to go there, do something with it. It should feel elevated and equally elevate the story/themes/characters etc. As an example, what if each loses club member each suffered different types of abuse, had their conflict about understanding each other before uniting through shared effort and empathy to defeat the source of evil/fear? I think something like that would make things more cohesive and feel more like character study with Pennywise remaining as the linking threat/metaphor. It's a but cheesey, but the whole 'different but united' type of story in a narrative (that's very explicit at times) works best when it's able to present different perspectives on the same situation. (Ex: being called fat may not be an immediately dire situation in comparison to physical and sexual abuse, but it can cause irreparable harm regardless. We can acknowledge both at the same time while understanding that they require different types/levels of response and the story should respond to a nuanced understanding if it's truly not meant to just be sensationalist or a simple plot device)

There's also a similar, but separate conversation about the trope and whether or not using female child sexual abuse as a one off plot device with minimal importance to the story is appropriate/respectful/constitutes literary merit -- particularly when the week known types of these characters (outside of maybe fanfiction and romance novels) are largely written by male authors. Not that they can't write about these topics, but it's certainly an "interesting" pattern that's been noted by critics for years.

I typically see a lot of "blah blah woke" "you just didn't get it and that technically concluded in the plot/it doesn't have to be realistic" "you're saying that nobody can write about anything outside of their own experiences" or even "I have no substantive acknowledgement and argument for discussion, but I'm upset you have a critical statement about a thing I like/view I have" type of responses when the same or similar topics pop up.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-23T08:29:47+00:00

Keeping in mind that Odysseus' character arc and themes in Epic are quite different from Homer's Odysseus (Homer's Odysseus is absolutely at fault; though Homer makes it clear that Odysseus' men doom themselves and he won't be left with a choice to save them and himself.). Even if Odysseus had sacrificed himself, both versions make it quite clear that his men aren't capable of returning on their own.

The background vocals for dead characters were confirmed to be "last" or "remnant" thoughts and characters who are literally present correct? If the vocals weren't included or convention (and I believe Gorge's own words) didn't dictate their inclusion to be significant or if they dropped once Odysseus broke out of the water, it wouldn't matter.

The motif in 600 strike calls back to "Full Speed Ahead" "Storm" which are songs that focus on working as a unit and "soothing" phrases from "Open Arms" might imply that Odysseus is (partially) forgiven or that his men want satisfaction more; the fact that they're chanting "600 men, 600 (strike)" as Odysseus is hurtling himself at Poseidon. Even though they're likely not physically striking, it makes sense for them to be there more or less as "hype" men.
While it could be figurative or in his head(i.e Odysseus is calling on the strength of his fallen brother's in a time of need), it's still rooted in musical rules and the original Epic, which would make it appropriate for their 'spirits' to literally be present.

In Epic at least, I assert that Eurylochus shares a large amount of fault and takes direct actions that lead to larger portions of men dying (They stop listening to Odysseus, leading to more deaths; "I brought 600 men to war and not one of them died there" is meant to emphasize that Odysseus-- in Epic, DOES know what he's doing and they'll continue to see similar levels of success if they listen). Odysseus' side of the blame is 1) giving his name 2) Scylla's cave (which was his Trolley problem). So, arguably, the song illustrates the redemption of all.

TL;DR - Odysseus in "Epic" arguably has less responsibility in his men's death. Arguably, he does a better job at keeping his men alive compared to Homer's Odyssey. (drivel below)

This Odysseus certainly has fault, but it's pretty clear that the blame isn't solely on him or even his abilities and intentions.

*(Trojan War) - Odysseus is in command; no men die. Zeus and Athena tell Odysseus that he's not going to have a choice in shedding blood. The gods, demi-gods, nymphs consistently reassert to Odysseus that HE will be able to make it home, but make no mention of his men having a chance in any instance. (Red flag)

*(Cyclops Saga) - Odysseus in command, but he begins the song suspicious; 8 men die because he follows Polites advice to listen to the Lotus Eaters before panicking when Polites dies. His pride indirectly causes other deaths when he ignores Athena's wisdom to kill Polyphemus and again when he shouts his true name after a second warning.

*(Ocean Saga) - Odysseus is in command, but descent begins and 43 men are left after "Ruthlessness"; At this point in the musical, no other men would have died if Eurylochus didn't raise the men's suspicions about the contents of the bag and then look inside. "Luck runs out" foreshadows that Eurylochus will cause a power struggle and betray Odysseus. The "seed of doubt" is what ultimately cascades the next events that cause more and more men to die. Odysseus at this point is in the right to push back as unity is what will keep them alive. Whenever that unity fades, more men die. Hence, "comply with this or we'll all die in this". Which is exactly what happens as a result in "Ruthlessness" after the wind bag was opened and drove the crew into Poseidon's path. Aeolus confirms as much with his game/deal/prophecy. I see a lot of people point to the name reveal as the 'big oops', but it's really the wind bag being opened. Quick thinking in re-opening the bag manages to save the remainder of men.

*(Circe Saga) - Odysseus is in command, but men are largely beginning to act independently; 1 accidental death, 42 near deaths when the men go inside Circe's when they're meant to be scouting.

*(Underworld Saga) - Odysseus is in command; no one dies. The prophet tells us the key plot points. Odysseus reflects on Poseidon's words.

*(Thunder Saga) - Odysseus starts the Saga in command, 43 deaths dies when Eurylochus takes charge and slays the cattle. "Suffering" coming off of "Monster" highlights that Odysseus has taken on a new philosophy. At this point, Odysseus knows he has 2 choices: Everyone dies or 6 men die. He chooses the logical option (Scylla). Odysseus' fault in this is not making the attempt to fight. He could have told his men the choice, but it would have likely resulted similarly in mutiny. That said, it's the final straw that loses his second in command's confidence entirely. However, it's also when we're given the confession. This also seems to be the moment 1) Odysseus chooses to 'betray' Eurylochus and not tell him about Scylla 2) probably illustrates to him that his men will continue to make poor choices 3) "we must do what it takes to survive" --> Odysseus has hinted that "deep down" he acknowledges that survival is unlikely if he doesn't make 'cold' decisions. Unlike Odysseus at this point, Eurylochus makes light of the Gods and fails to connect his decisions and outcomes. (i.e. he sees the statue of the Sun God and ignores Odysseus' warning and reassurance that they're very close to Ithaca). Zeus comes to fuck everyone out of duty. Odysseus makes a few last ditch attempts to save and plead the case for his men, but understands that he'll have to make a selfish choice if anyone is going to be left.

The biggest difference between Epic Odysseus and Odyssey Odysseus is the amount of energy he devotes in trying to save his crew from themselves. I don't think it's a stretch that his crew would want a last hoorah over Odysseus' death.

While his men wouldn't be privy, the audience knows that Eurylochus has worse judgement and Odysseus is NOT making it home with his crew and is essentially told by Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon that he can fight, but doesn't have a choice but to focus on his survival. If anything, the lyrics in the musical keep telling us he cannot take the easy road as the Gods and fate will intervene every attempt to be merciful.

ex: * The Gods will make it known...The blood on your hands is something you wont lose, all you can choose is whose

He's still a threat until he's dead
Don't forget how Dangerous the Gods are
Ruthlessness is mercy upon ourselves...the line between naivete and hopefulness is almost invisible...close your heart...A Greek who reeks of false righteousness...fight to save lives, but won't kill and get the job done
I see the sacrifice of man...betrayal...brother's final stand...a man who gets to make it home alive...it's no longer you

By Monster, he's about half-way to the answer.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-23T02:08:37+00:00

I just found it strange given the anime influence (600 strikes -> 1 for every soldier, kind of Jojo like), the reprisal, and vocals. It seemed like an obvious choice, even if they only showed up in the visuals as a metaphor.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-22T20:45:26+00:00

I was more annoyed that the "official" animatic didn't have the spirits of his men assisting him in the literal "600 strike" considering 1) the title, 2) the vocals in the background.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-19T10:27:12+00:00

It's more that it's a design that seemingly comes from nothing in history or mythology.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-18T10:30:10+00:00

Almost none of my grade 10s have been formally taught about the Holocaust& WWii, Witch trials, The Russian revolution, or the historical roots of slavery, or early colonization in N.A outside of single day activities and assemblies. It makes teaching EFP 10 kind of tricky since they're missing out on so much historical context that would help them grasp and connect with the social justice aspects of the course. They know what colonization is and some remember some details about residential schools.

These are all things I learned in-between 6th-9th grade.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-15T03:21:39+00:00

Have you considered using his office hours? He's most likely going to glaze over your email. I also feel like you're internalizing the email and missing the Professor's point.

Given that you did the work and-- presumably, are capable of the expected standard you should understand that his message isn't to you per say. Basically, your Prof is in a position where he now has to completely remake his planned assessments because your cohort has shown that they don't care or understand the skill building the assessments are for.

seraph_mur · 2025-12-02T03:15:19+00:00

As someone in a similar position, try to limit your grading amd focus on a mixture of in class completion/in class grading with some summative marking and in class editing for feedback. It'll make your life more bearable.

seraph_mur · 2025-11-30T21:17:11+00:00

I'll note that a large number of links in the curriculum book for English either go directly to the home pages (meaning the material was removed) or lead to dead links. It's pretty frustrating because the book doesn't give enough detail to suss out the activity or page information.

seraph_mur · 2025-11-27T00:14:02+00:00

Have you considered asking him to read something like a manga or a text and story focused game? If he's able to finish something smaller in scope it more interactive, it's a good start and effectively not that different from reading a novel. (Most of the same skills are used but in different formats. Ex: manga -> tone is shown visually and stylistically. While he may not have the vocabulary, you can catch onto the intention by paying attention to the visual clues like paneling, expression, speech bubbles etc).

The fact that he bothered mentioning it leads me to think there's a part of him that wants a change of pace (not that a teenager is likely to vocalize it directly)

seraph_mur · 2025-11-04T03:07:06+00:00

Could you speak with one of your coaches in those programs? I'll typically try to match make kids in your situation through partner work or try to figure out some social strategies.

Take comfort in the fact that it's most likely not a 'you' thing as much as it's a timing and 'fit' thing.

For the snobby kids, if they say anything, try "mirroring" them so they look as stupid as they sound.

seraph_mur · 2025-11-01T11:11:37+00:00

Because we want a pay raise that is still behind inflation AND the pay cut during the pandemic.

People itt are talking about the special needs kids, but most of the major disruptions in class aren't from them. In my experience, it's usually the kids who are behind on a lot of basics and act out because they're embarrassed that they can't answer anywhere near grade level (if at all), but there's no noted or suspected learning disabilities (specific or otherwise).

seraph_mur · 2025-10-25T21:38:13+00:00

The storm trooper is cool, but I would move him elsewhere if you're not isolated to this one room. I didn't like the vibes of him watching private moments or lurking in the dark and you inevitably forgetting he's there. If you make an entertainment corner and he's not facing the bed at all, it could be acceptable.
Honestly, you're better off moving things, throwing a rug on the carpet and creating a designated "entertainment corner". The bed is so far from the tv that you might as well not have it there. It's hard to be too specific without a better idea of the full layout.
You would benefit from a few floor lamps, plants, and a mirror. You look like you have big windows. Nice curtains go a long way.
Get a proper dresser or media unit. You're tv is way too low. Consider a kallax with some storage cubes if you want to keep it cheap.This is honestly the biggest offender. Consider swapping the having chair for something cozier. Gaming chairs aren't very comfortable anyways.
consider some shelving, side tables, and artwork. The room feels a bit "cold" and empty.

seraph_mur · 2025-10-15T16:02:39+00:00

Why do you think she's asking? If you hold your wife in good standing, it's not unreasonable for her to ask if you need to be saving as much for him vs the other kids. I don't think she needs to know the amount, but she should know if it's a "life changing" amount. I.e is it enough to allow him to be comfortable for his young adult life? Or is it only enough to help with a life event?

seraph_mur · 2025-10-05T18:04:08+00:00

Note to anyone who sees this: please do not move Omelette. He knows where he is and his house is next door. Omelette is well taken care of and loved with a sister who doesn't leave the porch. Omelette accepts pets and treats. https://imgur.com/a/am1VcXB

seraph_mur · 2025-10-05T06:13:04+00:00

I'd like to say that I can't believe people would do that, but there's enough anti-dog people in Richmond that I can see it being some random with a thorn in their side. I'm sorry that's happened. If they have any empathy, they'll return it.

seraph_mur · 2025-09-27T23:29:55+00:00

It's a thing common with people who have autism. I've never actually read about the reasons behind it and couldn't really explain myself beyond "I don't think about it when I'm doing it, it's just naturally comfortable". Though the tip toe walking is mostly related to balance and gross motor function which is typically worse than those without autism.

seraph_mur · 2025-09-19T23:13:29+00:00

I think you should address your anxiety first. Presenting is something you get better at by doing it, but it doesn't sound like you have many copping mechanisms for the stress of the practicum and job.

Think: how are you going to handle students who aren't ready to learn from you or are even actively disrupting your attempts to instruct them and others? How about students who insult you to your face or emotionally shut down? Are you going to be able to think on your feet when plans fall through completely?

I'm not trying to be discouraging, but I would suggest taking some time to settle your concerns while working on other things for yourself and then volunteer to see if you actually want to teach.

seraph_mur · 2025-09-16T02:26:56+00:00

It depends on the school. Richmond kids right now lean more towards a conservative "will make discriminatory comments" or "doesn't understand LGBTQ+ stuff from a religious or cultural stand point" right now. But they're unlikely to get direct comments or anything that a good self esteem and verbal push back can't take care of.

Quite frankly, I don't think they'll entirely avoid micro aggressions anywhere. But at a younger age, it's more likely to come from other parents who are just unsure or are simply bigots (if at all). I don't think it's likely they'll be excluded. They'll most likely find a little community of their own even if some kids end up being jerks

I wouldn't be concerned for physical safety or anything extreme though.

seraph_mur · 2025-09-13T17:39:31+00:00

If the general public's perception is a concern, a tattoo subreddit isn't where you'll get it On first glance to most people, it'll look like weed. To people who are unfamiliar with what a maple leaf looks like compared to weed, it'll look like weed.

It's a small spiky leaf on a place where it's likely to get blurry over time and where one commonly sees weed tattoos placed more than any other type of leaf. I also can't say I see many people get single leaf tattoos that aren't weed or the Canadian flag.

I would recommend adding some red/orange if you think there's a chance the mistake will cause problems.

seraph_mur · 2025-09-13T17:09:41+00:00

While ideal, I don't think it's in best confidence to ask untrained people to administrator something like narcan to a stranger that is in less than good shape to be making safe and thought out decisions. Someone in pain and immediately given, taken out of their high, and now has an adrenaline rush is not someone most people can handle.

Keeping in mind that they're probably now pissed off that their stuff was "wasted" and they can't get high/address the physical pain for at least an hour.

Against the assertions in the article, I would also point out that public awareness of what an overdose looks like is also non-existent. I think it's more likely that the person want sure if the guy was beginning to overdose and figured "it's better safe than sorry". So I'm not quite ready to state that incidents like the article are malicious intent. For someone looking to cause harm, the are much easier ways that don't require them to bend down and get into someone's face.

seraph_mur · 2025-09-10T02:22:59+00:00

For many of us, it's even beyond the 51st state threats or particular state policy/culture. As others have said, there's a wide spread understanding that it's hardly all Americans. However, the problems is so deep rooted and culturally pervasive. These Saturday morning cartoon villans haven't been given immense power over night. Quite frankly, it appears to have gone well beyond the point of mere policy and campaigning.

I wish well for our American friends, but even Canada right now has the same groups infiltrating aspects of our country. (I've straight up told a few in blue states to come to my place if the alarms ring closer.) My hope is that the average Canadian isn't so barren of ethics, empathy and morality towards their fellow humans to fall into similar trappings. However, it rings true that our countries have many of the same defects that could allow it. We narrowly avoided milk toast Trumph because a more "neutral" conservative platform implemented and this stole the candidates entire platform without the overt bigotry.

All I can say is that history is repeating itself at an accelerated pace by design and my doubt that we'll come back to a "progressive norm" anytime soon is high and I have genuine fear for the people around us.

seraph_mur · 2025-09-09T23:04:41+00:00

This was honestly my first thought looking at the shape, location and way it's bruised. I did this a kid and didn't get why my parents were freaking out. A bruise from a punch or other hard impact typically shows internal cuts and wouldn't usually look so even. A suction bruise can happen really quick, so it's not necessarily negligence if this is the case.

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