theatokos | (no subject)

*One of the reasons I love Adam so much is that he makes me a better person. Often I hate this about him, but sometimes he knows my intentions better than I do. Tonight we were discussing the Twilight phenomenon. On Sunday, two people in the church choir I sing with, both students, were discussing the books and movies, and tried to engage me in conversation. I told them I needed to avoid talking about it, because I was sure to offend them with my loathing. Off the cuff I come across like I think everyone who loves the books and movies are stupid. And I suppose there is something in that gut reaction. I don't put much faith in the mass market.

But do you want to know why I really hate Twilight? What really makes me so upset? It's that millions of American women are swooning over a semi-abusive relationship and want to be Bella, who has no agency. Millions of American women think that this is as good as it gets. Millions of American women are selling themselves short. And it kills me.

*Entirely unrelated, Adam, Bennett and I watched Julie and Julia tonight. I am completely sucked into the charm of Julia Child. I want to cook! Fancy French dishes! I want to try meringues! Boning a duck! I want to eat delicious food and drink excellent wine.

Adam and I are also contemplating working our way through Meryl Streep's oeuvre. Adam looked at me tonight and said "I'm totally gay for Meryl." I think I might be too.

*It is cold here. The heat is on and we're still chilly. It's been clear the last two days and nights. I hope it lasts for the next few days. The moon is nearly full and it's so beautiful. I can actually see stars here.

*Even though the doctor's have told me twice that my ears and throat look perfectly healthy, my left ear still hurts when I swallow. And it waxes and wanes through the day. I don't understand. I really hope it's not psychosomatic.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

But this is why it's so distressing!! It's NOT a great love story! If this is what women see as a good love story, then they are setting their sights too low. That people can't recognize abuse and manipulation when they see it, that women do not notice a lack of agency because they are inured to it is terrifying. This actually makes me upset. This part of my Twilight issue comes out of deep love, not the judgement that I usually throw around.

I do agree somewhat with Romeo and Juliet, with two exceptions: the writing is excellent and I don't see girls and women queueing up to stalk people who play Romeo and basically going nuts over the play.

If this is what women see as a good love story, then they are setting their sights too low. That people can't recognize abuse and manipulation when they see it, that women do not notice a lack of agency because they are inured to it is terrifying.

Hoorah!