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Writing, thievery and brainworks.
Posted 16 years ago-HEADER-
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11] | [12]
-BODY-
I wrote Chapter 12 of ATT today while at work, which works out for me, because it's not like it's that productive or demanding this time of year. Still, I wish I could write this thing out faster.
Money is still tight due to the surgery and previous sickness. I'm pillaging my Mom's freezer for stuff she and her family don't eat, and plan to get a bunch of food at a couple of Thanksgiving dinners various factions of my family are having. Gee, pilfering food others don't want- that's not raccoonish at all. Man, this furry thing really sneaks up on you and makes itself true.
And finally, since the last journal, I've gotten lots of notes from people who want me to analyze their fetishes. This has been extremely informative and entertaining all at once. Any time I can add to the collection of information I've been gathering, and maybe help clear the fog on someone's life a little bit, it's a good thing.
-FOOTER-
Spamtube:
JEEG is why super robots fly.
Impact is the exception to this rule.
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11] | [12]
-BODY-
I wrote Chapter 12 of ATT today while at work, which works out for me, because it's not like it's that productive or demanding this time of year. Still, I wish I could write this thing out faster.
Money is still tight due to the surgery and previous sickness. I'm pillaging my Mom's freezer for stuff she and her family don't eat, and plan to get a bunch of food at a couple of Thanksgiving dinners various factions of my family are having. Gee, pilfering food others don't want- that's not raccoonish at all. Man, this furry thing really sneaks up on you and makes itself true.
And finally, since the last journal, I've gotten lots of notes from people who want me to analyze their fetishes. This has been extremely informative and entertaining all at once. Any time I can add to the collection of information I've been gathering, and maybe help clear the fog on someone's life a little bit, it's a good thing.
-FOOTER-
Spamtube:
JEEG is why super robots fly.
Impact is the exception to this rule.
My stance on cub art and pedophilia.
Posted 16 years agoYou know, there's something about some subjects that makes people just not want to discuss them. It's too uncomfortable, too difficult to work outside of one's preconcieved notions. If you don't like to think, to challenge your own opinions against the possibility that you might actually learn something, then I have nothing to teach you. But if you're willing to sit down and seriously give this some thought, I can almost guarantee I'll give you something interesting to consider.
Recently, the UK has passed a law banning not just child porn, but drawn porn of children, even if they are obviously not human.
Now, I'm offended by the idea that anyplace has a law where I would be able to draw something illegal. I should never be able to do that. EVER. That is thought crime the likes of which summon fascism to mind- and do not try to downplay this with accusations of hyperbole, because the parallels can be found in the lowest of minutiae. But even if we want to go beyond that, I'll still take on this subject.
Let's get this big ugly question out right away, shall we? Ahem.
Q: Is sexual conduct with underdeveloped people morally wrong?
My answer: Yes. Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes. It is wrong, because it traumatizes the individual in question- they aren't ready for that type of thing to happen to them yet, and there's no way for them to even enjoy it. It's one of the most terrible things you can do to somebody, and you can't even fathom the damages you'll have caused them. This is true of the 12 year old who grew up with the Disney Channel, the good little Christian Boy who was never taught what a clitoris was, the self-esteemless Party Girl who gets used as a scorecard by morons who at the same time call her a whore and demand her services, and the Lowly Geek who grew up without enough friends to understand what a relationship was.
But then, I'm getting off track, aren't I? This is, after all, about pedophilia. The attraction toward children. We've fairly well established that the real life enaction of this fetish is a terrible thing, and should be prevented at all costs. Right? Right.
Well, first we have to understand why fetishes exist. I've personally been researching this for years, now, and near as I can tell, they are almost always closely linked to the developmental processes of the people who harbor them. Most often, they're developed in childhood, for various reasons.
Let's say you were humiliated a lot as a child. Your parents, while well meaning, took the joke too far and often made you feel awful for things that were not your fault- tripping, dropping a soda pop, something anyone could've done. You beat yourself up over this for years. Suddenly, one day your brain swoops in and says, "No more! You might still get humiliated in real life, but I can create a safe harbor where this embarassment you keep replaying in your mind can be enjoyed. I'll just link it to sexual pleasure!" And suddenly, voila, you have a humiliation fetish. You really get off on fictional situations of being embarassed for laughably inconsequential things.
How about another example? As a kid, your parents give you no choices. No ability to act, no responsibilities to hold. They suffocate you with bonds of authority, forcing you to sit still and stew in this hell where you can't control anything. One day, that brain of yours says, "Holy cow, we need some release or we're gonna stress ourselves to death! How about you just relax and imagine a world where you get to be in control? Where everybody has to do everything you say, and nobody can make a move if you don't say so? And hey, while we're at it, let's imagine they really really like doing what you say! We'll connect that to the sexual pleasure receptors so it's easy to indulge for long periods." Presto, you have a domination fetish.
And just to prove to you that I'm serious about all this, here's a more personal story. As a child, I was afraid of my mother's breasts- no joke. They were rather big, and for some reason, I was convinced that every time anything touched them, it hurt her. So convinced I was of this, I refused to even hug her many times, to her great confusion. As I grew a little older, I kept hearing girls complaining about how their budding breasts caused them pain from bouncing and were sensitive to the touch. All of this culminated in my being afraid of ever coming in contact with breasts, lest I hurt the poor woman they were attached to. Of course, my brain came in and said, "Sorry, buddy, but puberty's coming up quick, and you need to get over your fear of physical contact. Instead of hitting the fear and loathing buttons, I'm gonna flip your switches in the absolute opposite direction, and make you love breasts! You're gonna want to grab them, bounce them, jiggle them, squish them... and while we're at it, the bigger, the better! If they're huge, obvious and impossible to not come in contact with, then that's perfect. Okay, kiddo?" And bam, this is where my breast fetish comes from.
Now, understand that these aren't the only ways fetishes can be developed. Maybe you got the wrong impression of what was important in life, maybe you had a weird experience that you were too young to remember. There are any number of reasons why these things might pop up in your life, but the important thing to remember is that they are all there for you to release feelings that you have no other vent for. And the reality is that way more people have fetishes than you think- they just don't express them as overtly as someone like myself might.
Knowing that people have feelings they have to vent somehow, and knowing that the fetish is a release valve for these feelings, what is the most responsible thing to do if you have, say, a gore fetish? Or a rape fetish? Going out and committing crimes is a terrible thing to do for the sake of release, and is most likely only going to get you in much more stressful situations, not to mention traumatizing other people. And porn might be okay for most things, but in your case, it took victimizing someone to make that porn. So, faced with this decision between bottling up these feelings harmfully, possibly leading to severe consequences, and victimizing people passively for your own pleasure, what can you do?
Imagine. Create. Write, draw, animate, MAKE things! And even better, find other people who have these fetishes, and recruit them to do so as well. If the people in this are imaginary, there's no possibility of abuse. You're free to indulge all you'd like, at the cost of the materials with which you and others create.
This is true of every fetish. Creating imaginary people to act out these fantasies not only lets you release these feelings you might not want to share with other people in your life, it helps you easily separate fantasy and reality, because they exist on two different planes.
So in the end, why is pedophilia any different? We don't choose what fetishes we develop, mostly because we're often not even old enough to realize what's going on.
And isn't that the point of all this? Protecting people that couldn't know better? You can tell somebody that they need to see a psychiatrist, but ultimately this frontier science still has a bad track record of doing more harm than good through harmful drugs, lies and indifference. It's risky to get treatment, and most things still aren't curable- I and many, many others have the scars to prove it. You can't remove a fetish with a pill. It doesn't work. And often, therapy only helps you identify what happened- it's not a surgical tool to remove your personality.
Ultimately, there is nothing productive to come of vilifying others for their preferences. You didn't live their life, and you have no idea why they enjoy what they do. And if you take away their ability to relieve themselves in a safe environment...
Well, that only really puts more innocent people in danger in the real world, now doesn't it?
Recently, the UK has passed a law banning not just child porn, but drawn porn of children, even if they are obviously not human.
Now, I'm offended by the idea that anyplace has a law where I would be able to draw something illegal. I should never be able to do that. EVER. That is thought crime the likes of which summon fascism to mind- and do not try to downplay this with accusations of hyperbole, because the parallels can be found in the lowest of minutiae. But even if we want to go beyond that, I'll still take on this subject.
Let's get this big ugly question out right away, shall we? Ahem.
Q: Is sexual conduct with underdeveloped people morally wrong?
My answer: Yes. Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes. It is wrong, because it traumatizes the individual in question- they aren't ready for that type of thing to happen to them yet, and there's no way for them to even enjoy it. It's one of the most terrible things you can do to somebody, and you can't even fathom the damages you'll have caused them. This is true of the 12 year old who grew up with the Disney Channel, the good little Christian Boy who was never taught what a clitoris was, the self-esteemless Party Girl who gets used as a scorecard by morons who at the same time call her a whore and demand her services, and the Lowly Geek who grew up without enough friends to understand what a relationship was.
But then, I'm getting off track, aren't I? This is, after all, about pedophilia. The attraction toward children. We've fairly well established that the real life enaction of this fetish is a terrible thing, and should be prevented at all costs. Right? Right.
Well, first we have to understand why fetishes exist. I've personally been researching this for years, now, and near as I can tell, they are almost always closely linked to the developmental processes of the people who harbor them. Most often, they're developed in childhood, for various reasons.
Let's say you were humiliated a lot as a child. Your parents, while well meaning, took the joke too far and often made you feel awful for things that were not your fault- tripping, dropping a soda pop, something anyone could've done. You beat yourself up over this for years. Suddenly, one day your brain swoops in and says, "No more! You might still get humiliated in real life, but I can create a safe harbor where this embarassment you keep replaying in your mind can be enjoyed. I'll just link it to sexual pleasure!" And suddenly, voila, you have a humiliation fetish. You really get off on fictional situations of being embarassed for laughably inconsequential things.
How about another example? As a kid, your parents give you no choices. No ability to act, no responsibilities to hold. They suffocate you with bonds of authority, forcing you to sit still and stew in this hell where you can't control anything. One day, that brain of yours says, "Holy cow, we need some release or we're gonna stress ourselves to death! How about you just relax and imagine a world where you get to be in control? Where everybody has to do everything you say, and nobody can make a move if you don't say so? And hey, while we're at it, let's imagine they really really like doing what you say! We'll connect that to the sexual pleasure receptors so it's easy to indulge for long periods." Presto, you have a domination fetish.
And just to prove to you that I'm serious about all this, here's a more personal story. As a child, I was afraid of my mother's breasts- no joke. They were rather big, and for some reason, I was convinced that every time anything touched them, it hurt her. So convinced I was of this, I refused to even hug her many times, to her great confusion. As I grew a little older, I kept hearing girls complaining about how their budding breasts caused them pain from bouncing and were sensitive to the touch. All of this culminated in my being afraid of ever coming in contact with breasts, lest I hurt the poor woman they were attached to. Of course, my brain came in and said, "Sorry, buddy, but puberty's coming up quick, and you need to get over your fear of physical contact. Instead of hitting the fear and loathing buttons, I'm gonna flip your switches in the absolute opposite direction, and make you love breasts! You're gonna want to grab them, bounce them, jiggle them, squish them... and while we're at it, the bigger, the better! If they're huge, obvious and impossible to not come in contact with, then that's perfect. Okay, kiddo?" And bam, this is where my breast fetish comes from.
Now, understand that these aren't the only ways fetishes can be developed. Maybe you got the wrong impression of what was important in life, maybe you had a weird experience that you were too young to remember. There are any number of reasons why these things might pop up in your life, but the important thing to remember is that they are all there for you to release feelings that you have no other vent for. And the reality is that way more people have fetishes than you think- they just don't express them as overtly as someone like myself might.
Knowing that people have feelings they have to vent somehow, and knowing that the fetish is a release valve for these feelings, what is the most responsible thing to do if you have, say, a gore fetish? Or a rape fetish? Going out and committing crimes is a terrible thing to do for the sake of release, and is most likely only going to get you in much more stressful situations, not to mention traumatizing other people. And porn might be okay for most things, but in your case, it took victimizing someone to make that porn. So, faced with this decision between bottling up these feelings harmfully, possibly leading to severe consequences, and victimizing people passively for your own pleasure, what can you do?
Imagine. Create. Write, draw, animate, MAKE things! And even better, find other people who have these fetishes, and recruit them to do so as well. If the people in this are imaginary, there's no possibility of abuse. You're free to indulge all you'd like, at the cost of the materials with which you and others create.
This is true of every fetish. Creating imaginary people to act out these fantasies not only lets you release these feelings you might not want to share with other people in your life, it helps you easily separate fantasy and reality, because they exist on two different planes.
So in the end, why is pedophilia any different? We don't choose what fetishes we develop, mostly because we're often not even old enough to realize what's going on.
And isn't that the point of all this? Protecting people that couldn't know better? You can tell somebody that they need to see a psychiatrist, but ultimately this frontier science still has a bad track record of doing more harm than good through harmful drugs, lies and indifference. It's risky to get treatment, and most things still aren't curable- I and many, many others have the scars to prove it. You can't remove a fetish with a pill. It doesn't work. And often, therapy only helps you identify what happened- it's not a surgical tool to remove your personality.
Ultimately, there is nothing productive to come of vilifying others for their preferences. You didn't live their life, and you have no idea why they enjoy what they do. And if you take away their ability to relieve themselves in a safe environment...
Well, that only really puts more innocent people in danger in the real world, now doesn't it?
Great Birthday, and thank you!
Posted 16 years agoWell, earlier today, I had my wisdom teeth out, and I'm dealing with the pain just fine. I had a bad reaction to some pain meds, but it turns out that Motrin is better! So I'm doing just fine, thanks for all your concern and well-wishes.
As well! I want to thank everybody who wished me a happy birthday, it was a wonderful one thanks to many people. Of course, as with every year, my wonderful boyfriend
chayfox really made it my day, and made me feel special. In addition to being a gigantic sweetie, he bought me three of The Black Mages albums, which I absolutely adore. I love you lots, thank you, hon. <3
It felt really good to have so many people wish me a happy birthday. Some people might feel distant toward people on the net, but I appreciate every one.
And finally, I really want to thank the friends who took the time to make wonderful pieces of art for me. I want to share them with you, but please- be considerate, I labeled it all in case you're sensitive to these types of things. Thank you. :)
Chibijenhen Drew a wonderful picture of Doctor Gwen being an absolute cutie pie! Sugary sweet. <3
Oogzie Illustrated Duncan serving me breakfast in bed... though the breakfast was really all his! 18+, Delicious boy-on-boy.
Xadera Surprised the heck out of me by having Sunni, Alex, Mashato and Gwen completely mug me. I suppose even innocent girls have an evil streak when it comes to overwhelming their creator. Lots of fun! 18+, big boobs, herm, underage.
Colesutra Followed up on a previous theme and showed me having a good time with my favorite 'toon wolfess- and since it's my Birthday, I didn't even get mauled! =D 18+, Boy on hot fuzzy MILF.
And finally, Miss
Torachan evidently thought that I'd been a good little servant, because this year she gave me a fun-filled and wholesome evening with her and 
Stelardactek! And by wholesome, I mean shameless, salacious, and exploitative. *giggle* I love it. <3 18+, Huuuge boobies, and evil of the best kind.
As well! I want to thank everybody who wished me a happy birthday, it was a wonderful one thanks to many people. Of course, as with every year, my wonderful boyfriend
chayfox really made it my day, and made me feel special. In addition to being a gigantic sweetie, he bought me three of The Black Mages albums, which I absolutely adore. I love you lots, thank you, hon. <3It felt really good to have so many people wish me a happy birthday. Some people might feel distant toward people on the net, but I appreciate every one.
And finally, I really want to thank the friends who took the time to make wonderful pieces of art for me. I want to share them with you, but please- be considerate, I labeled it all in case you're sensitive to these types of things. Thank you. :)
Chibijenhen Drew a wonderful picture of Doctor Gwen being an absolute cutie pie! Sugary sweet. <3
Oogzie Illustrated Duncan serving me breakfast in bed... though the breakfast was really all his! 18+, Delicious boy-on-boy.
Xadera Surprised the heck out of me by having Sunni, Alex, Mashato and Gwen completely mug me. I suppose even innocent girls have an evil streak when it comes to overwhelming their creator. Lots of fun! 18+, big boobs, herm, underage.
Colesutra Followed up on a previous theme and showed me having a good time with my favorite 'toon wolfess- and since it's my Birthday, I didn't even get mauled! =D 18+, Boy on hot fuzzy MILF.And finally, Miss
Torachan evidently thought that I'd been a good little servant, because this year she gave me a fun-filled and wholesome evening with her and 
Stelardactek! And by wholesome, I mean shameless, salacious, and exploitative. *giggle* I love it. <3 18+, Huuuge boobies, and evil of the best kind.Feeling better, teeth and Birthday.
Posted 16 years ago-HEADER-
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
So my little stint with bronchitis is over. Turns out it was something I did to myself, stupidly, while cleaning out the most epic clog to ever clog a vacuum cleaner of cleaning vacuums. I should've known there was a problem the moment I blew a mighty breath into the extension hose and shunted out a two foot long dust-and-hair turd. Won't be doing that again.
I'm getting my wisdom teeth out Friday, having a relative drive me there and back. I'll be okay, though, just gotta keep medicated and eat the semisolid diet I've purchased from the store.
Oh, and my birthday is comin' up on the 11th. I'll be 23. Whoopie. =P
-FOOTER-
CHOOOUDENJI... YO-YOOOOOO!!
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
So my little stint with bronchitis is over. Turns out it was something I did to myself, stupidly, while cleaning out the most epic clog to ever clog a vacuum cleaner of cleaning vacuums. I should've known there was a problem the moment I blew a mighty breath into the extension hose and shunted out a two foot long dust-and-hair turd. Won't be doing that again.
I'm getting my wisdom teeth out Friday, having a relative drive me there and back. I'll be okay, though, just gotta keep medicated and eat the semisolid diet I've purchased from the store.
Oh, and my birthday is comin' up on the 11th. I'll be 23. Whoopie. =P
-FOOTER-
CHOOOUDENJI... YO-YOOOOOO!!
Feeling a good bit better.
Posted 16 years ago-HEADER-
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
Well, it turns out that those horse pills the doc gave me work pretty well with rest. My fever's gone, and what I have left amounts to largely wet coughing and sniffles. No big deal. Thanks for all the well wishes, and if you have any left in you, go give them to chayfox, who's still worse for wear.
Now I'm gonna go cuddle him up and gear in for a full recovery. See ya.
-FOOTER-
Jesus, Captain N was a terrible show.
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
Well, it turns out that those horse pills the doc gave me work pretty well with rest. My fever's gone, and what I have left amounts to largely wet coughing and sniffles. No big deal. Thanks for all the well wishes, and if you have any left in you, go give them to
chayfox, who's still worse for wear.Now I'm gonna go cuddle him up and gear in for a full recovery. See ya.
-FOOTER-
Jesus, Captain N was a terrible show.
Uuugggghhh.
Posted 16 years ago-HEADER-
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
Since Monday, chayfox and I have been sick with bacterial bronchitis. Yeah, I know, all this crap about swine flu and we get some random other thing else. We went to the doctor, and got prescribed a bunch of (damned expensive) meds, so hopefully that'll be over soon, but...
Blufgh, this sucks. Sorry, Stel, don't think I'll make D&D this week, I'm just completely wiped. You and the Boss can go on without me, you know Tandem's equation of Action: Find enemy/door and apply vigorous amounts of sword. *smirks*
And naturally, probably no drawings until I'm better. Bluh.
-FOOTER-
Spamtube:
CHANGE LEOPARDON!
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
Since Monday,
chayfox and I have been sick with bacterial bronchitis. Yeah, I know, all this crap about swine flu and we get some random other thing else. We went to the doctor, and got prescribed a bunch of (damned expensive) meds, so hopefully that'll be over soon, but...Blufgh, this sucks. Sorry, Stel, don't think I'll make D&D this week, I'm just completely wiped. You and the Boss can go on without me, you know Tandem's equation of Action: Find enemy/door and apply vigorous amounts of sword. *smirks*
And naturally, probably no drawings until I'm better. Bluh.
-FOOTER-
Spamtube:
CHANGE LEOPARDON!
I'm writing again -AND- Playstation 3
Posted 16 years ago-HEADER-
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
Well, you may have noticed that I completed another chapter of A Tanuki's Tail after... way, way too long. I usually get my best ideas while at work, and I hadn't had a way to really get the ideas down when it was busy. Thankfully things are dying down and I managed to bust out chapter 11! So from now on, I'm gonna keep the chapters in the header of my journals, as you see up there.
As well, chayfox and I are on our... damn, sixth XBox360 at this point. We're still waiting for the incompetent boobs at Microsoft to send it back to our correct address. God knows when it'll red ring again. So with that in mind, I'm glad to announce that we bought a PS3. So far we have MGS4 and SF4, but will be adding to our library of games on a system that won't break the shit down half the time. *laughs*
-FOOTER-
Parting thought: anybody know if Rosetta Stone is good for learning Japanese?
A Tanuki's Tail Chapters (Optional Adult Chapters in red):
[01] | [02] | [03] | [04] | [05]
____________________________
[06] | [07] | [08] | [09] | [10]
______[07x]_________________
[11]
-BODY-
Well, you may have noticed that I completed another chapter of A Tanuki's Tail after... way, way too long. I usually get my best ideas while at work, and I hadn't had a way to really get the ideas down when it was busy. Thankfully things are dying down and I managed to bust out chapter 11! So from now on, I'm gonna keep the chapters in the header of my journals, as you see up there.
As well,
chayfox and I are on our... damn, sixth XBox360 at this point. We're still waiting for the incompetent boobs at Microsoft to send it back to our correct address. God knows when it'll red ring again. So with that in mind, I'm glad to announce that we bought a PS3. So far we have MGS4 and SF4, but will be adding to our library of games on a system that won't break the shit down half the time. *laughs*-FOOTER-
Parting thought: anybody know if Rosetta Stone is good for learning Japanese?
A Taste of Humility
Posted 16 years agoHey. Have you heard?
Of course you have. Somebody decided to out themselves as a real weirdo on television, and they're making you look bad. "All furries are this, all furries are that." You've been through the drill. Your mind scrambles to find reasons why you're not like those people, why you're not as weird or unacceptable as they are. But all the time you try, you feel a little twinge in the back of your head. "Am I not normal?"
Unfortunately, the answer is no, you're not normal. But wanting acceptance and love and all those other wonderful intangible things from people you've never met, you try to rationalize it all. Maybe you're only a little weird. Maybe you don't do it all the time, this furry thing. Maybe you're just an artist, taking advantage of a monetary opportunity. Maybe you're just a casual fan of some of the creative works. Maybe you just want to find others who like these same things. If you can separate yourself enough, maybe, just maybe, it'll all be all right and you can face yourself tomorrow. Then you can look in the mirror and say, "I'm not like that. I'm different. I'm better than that."
Stop. It's okay, I promise.
See, here's the thing. You're the weird kid in school. You, me, all of us. We're the odd ones out. The rest of everybody is going to think what you do is strange, whether you've got somebody using it to gain attention or not. There's nothing you can do to make what you like to do any less off-the-wall to the average person.
So. This instinct, this urge, this need to be better than somebody else for trivial reasons... does you no good. So maybe you...
-Don't have sex.
-Don't think you're an animal.
-Don't have X fetish.
-Don't talk to other furries.
-Don't like most furries.
-Have a life outside of it.
-Have social skills.
-Live on your own.
All of these things only skirt the real issue. These are individual concepts that must be fought and won on an individual level. It's not the main problem. The elephant in the room, that plagues the majority of us, is this:
We're insecure.
Believe it or not, that's what binds us together, for the most part. It's the glue that puts us all in one place- we find each other so our hobbies can appear normal by numbers! So what do we do? Many different things, as it turns out.
We might surround ourselves with friends who don't challenge us, and protect our flawed views.
We might proclaim ourselves to need no others' acceptance and put up a guise of toughness.
We might frame the argument to right versus wrong and validate ourselves through the basest of moral grounds.
We might antagonize others in an attempt to elevate ourselves above their more obvious social incompetancies, and use these victories as some sort of proof of superiority.
We might differentiate fetishes or practices other people do on a level that might lend us some validation through a perceived slider of normalcy.
We might even go on the news.
But it's all in the name of insecurity. Insecurity borne of an idea: "what if what I'm doing is considered strange and unright? What should I do?"
Of course the answer will always truly be: Consider it strange and relax. Because in matters of adversity and true difference, ultimately the only judge that really matters, is you. Whether you accept yourself or not, the majority of people never will- not truly. So keep this in mind when you make the decisions that you do. Ask yourself...
"Do I really believe this... or am I just being needlessly insecure?"
The answer may surprise you.
Of course you have. Somebody decided to out themselves as a real weirdo on television, and they're making you look bad. "All furries are this, all furries are that." You've been through the drill. Your mind scrambles to find reasons why you're not like those people, why you're not as weird or unacceptable as they are. But all the time you try, you feel a little twinge in the back of your head. "Am I not normal?"
Unfortunately, the answer is no, you're not normal. But wanting acceptance and love and all those other wonderful intangible things from people you've never met, you try to rationalize it all. Maybe you're only a little weird. Maybe you don't do it all the time, this furry thing. Maybe you're just an artist, taking advantage of a monetary opportunity. Maybe you're just a casual fan of some of the creative works. Maybe you just want to find others who like these same things. If you can separate yourself enough, maybe, just maybe, it'll all be all right and you can face yourself tomorrow. Then you can look in the mirror and say, "I'm not like that. I'm different. I'm better than that."
Stop. It's okay, I promise.
See, here's the thing. You're the weird kid in school. You, me, all of us. We're the odd ones out. The rest of everybody is going to think what you do is strange, whether you've got somebody using it to gain attention or not. There's nothing you can do to make what you like to do any less off-the-wall to the average person.
So. This instinct, this urge, this need to be better than somebody else for trivial reasons... does you no good. So maybe you...
-Don't have sex.
-Don't think you're an animal.
-Don't have X fetish.
-Don't talk to other furries.
-Don't like most furries.
-Have a life outside of it.
-Have social skills.
-Live on your own.
All of these things only skirt the real issue. These are individual concepts that must be fought and won on an individual level. It's not the main problem. The elephant in the room, that plagues the majority of us, is this:
We're insecure.
Believe it or not, that's what binds us together, for the most part. It's the glue that puts us all in one place- we find each other so our hobbies can appear normal by numbers! So what do we do? Many different things, as it turns out.
We might surround ourselves with friends who don't challenge us, and protect our flawed views.
We might proclaim ourselves to need no others' acceptance and put up a guise of toughness.
We might frame the argument to right versus wrong and validate ourselves through the basest of moral grounds.
We might antagonize others in an attempt to elevate ourselves above their more obvious social incompetancies, and use these victories as some sort of proof of superiority.
We might differentiate fetishes or practices other people do on a level that might lend us some validation through a perceived slider of normalcy.
We might even go on the news.
But it's all in the name of insecurity. Insecurity borne of an idea: "what if what I'm doing is considered strange and unright? What should I do?"
Of course the answer will always truly be: Consider it strange and relax. Because in matters of adversity and true difference, ultimately the only judge that really matters, is you. Whether you accept yourself or not, the majority of people never will- not truly. So keep this in mind when you make the decisions that you do. Ask yourself...
"Do I really believe this... or am I just being needlessly insecure?"
The answer may surprise you.
Am I creeping you out?
Posted 16 years agoSo lately, I've been digitally painting pictures that are meant solely to serve as a vent for the fear, anger, and madness that comes with my condition.
They're not gory or shockers or anything, but at the same time, I have to admit they're probably a little creepy. And while I'm usually not one to coddle you people by posting nothing that would challenge you, this is a little far and away from the reasoning and inspiration behind all the rest of my art.
That said, I can't stop making this artwork. It's really therapeutic for me in ways that are very very important. Now, I don't have a problem posting it, but I don't want to surprise-bomb someone who expected something dirty or cute and got something disturbing. So tell me now: Should I create another account for this kind of work, or am I worrying over nothing? Your choice.
_____
_________
_____
Okay, so it's pretty much unanimous, you guys don't care. Fair enough, I'll keep uploading this stuff.
They're not gory or shockers or anything, but at the same time, I have to admit they're probably a little creepy. And while I'm usually not one to coddle you people by posting nothing that would challenge you, this is a little far and away from the reasoning and inspiration behind all the rest of my art.
That said, I can't stop making this artwork. It's really therapeutic for me in ways that are very very important. Now, I don't have a problem posting it, but I don't want to surprise-bomb someone who expected something dirty or cute and got something disturbing. So tell me now: Should I create another account for this kind of work, or am I worrying over nothing? Your choice.
_____
_________
_____
Okay, so it's pretty much unanimous, you guys don't care. Fair enough, I'll keep uploading this stuff.
I'm really lame -AND- deleting adult art
Posted 16 years agoSo, the first order of business is of course the one where I let a bunch of people down.
I can't do commissions.
I know, lame, right? The trouble is, boys and girls, that Nori is some special kind of retarded. I took commissions yeeears ago for a short stint, and those were some of the worst clients I think I could ever even imagine. So maybe it was that that did it, or maybe it's unrelated, but every time I try to do anything art-wise for money, I just freeze up. My hands won't make with the doodly scribbly and I end up wondering just why I'm so dysfunctional in the face of capitalism. I hardly even take trades anymore, the specter of owing people is so strong. Hell, I've owed
theman my half of a trade for so goddamn long it's ridiculous. Sorry folks- this is why I put the idea out there before actually taking any on. So throw your tomatoes, I'm a big cocktease. Save your money, or spend it on somebody who really needs it.
The second order of business is something that I've been noticing little by little. And before you ask, no, I'm not deleting my adult art, that would be preposterous. :P What I'm referring to is when artists decide to delete their adult art.
Sometimes- very, very rarely- this is done as a point of personal growth, because the artist is taking a completely new direction with their work. This should be encouraged! Artistic directions can change and can mean a lot for the person making it.
BUT.
Personal Discovery should be distinguished from its very similar cousin, Personal Insecurity. From a distance, they may look exactly the same, but the first question used to figure this out is the ubiquitous golden question:
Why? Why are you doing this?
So let's list the most common given reasons for this:
1. "I felt like it."
-No argument there! You'd have to have, in order to have done it, unless you were being remote-controlled by Ralph Nader. This is the cop-out that I hear quite a lot, and it screams either "I do things completely on a whim" or "I have poor powers of self-analysis."
2. "I don't want that kind of attention anymore."
-This one bothers me a lot. Letting the nebulous 'other people' determine what you show to the world is troubling to me, because it starts off with the impression that they are a controllable factor. To be perfectly honest, there's nothing one can do about the people that come to comment save for on a one-on-one basis, and trying to control that on the supply side only really hurts the artist in the end.
3. "I want people to like my art for its quality."
-The assumption that porn is the anathema to quality is something I've already addressed in another journal, but even aside from that, it runs right back to the assumption that you can control the people that come to see your work. If you show people something, they're going to interpret it their way- that's how art works.
4. "I feel conscientious, as relatives/friends/children may see it."
-So let me get this straight, your best friend from church, your Aunt Hattie and a ten year old are going to register for a website that's devoted to porn, log on, and hunt you down.
Either that's preposterous, or all of these people have a lot to answer for themselves, seeking out obscure porn like that! Not a whole lot of high ground for them. And in the second place, so what? We all like to keep secrets, yes, but it's not crippling that somebody should know you just happen to have a libido. You share that with someone, you know: EVERYONE. Even people who claim to be non-sexual are bound by biology, and there is a key that will turn their lock, even if they don't recognize it as that. It's a part of us as humans, it's not a big deal.
5. "I just don't feel like drawing porn anymore."
-Okay! That's totally fine, don't! But don't pretend you never did it. The act of not drawing adult art is completely natural, but the urges to cover this up are the vestiges of shame and deeper issues.
So the point is, be honest with yourself, above all, and encourage others to do the same.
I can't do commissions.
I know, lame, right? The trouble is, boys and girls, that Nori is some special kind of retarded. I took commissions yeeears ago for a short stint, and those were some of the worst clients I think I could ever even imagine. So maybe it was that that did it, or maybe it's unrelated, but every time I try to do anything art-wise for money, I just freeze up. My hands won't make with the doodly scribbly and I end up wondering just why I'm so dysfunctional in the face of capitalism. I hardly even take trades anymore, the specter of owing people is so strong. Hell, I've owed
theman my half of a trade for so goddamn long it's ridiculous. Sorry folks- this is why I put the idea out there before actually taking any on. So throw your tomatoes, I'm a big cocktease. Save your money, or spend it on somebody who really needs it.The second order of business is something that I've been noticing little by little. And before you ask, no, I'm not deleting my adult art, that would be preposterous. :P What I'm referring to is when artists decide to delete their adult art.
Sometimes- very, very rarely- this is done as a point of personal growth, because the artist is taking a completely new direction with their work. This should be encouraged! Artistic directions can change and can mean a lot for the person making it.
BUT.
Personal Discovery should be distinguished from its very similar cousin, Personal Insecurity. From a distance, they may look exactly the same, but the first question used to figure this out is the ubiquitous golden question:
Why? Why are you doing this?
So let's list the most common given reasons for this:
1. "I felt like it."
-No argument there! You'd have to have, in order to have done it, unless you were being remote-controlled by Ralph Nader. This is the cop-out that I hear quite a lot, and it screams either "I do things completely on a whim" or "I have poor powers of self-analysis."
2. "I don't want that kind of attention anymore."
-This one bothers me a lot. Letting the nebulous 'other people' determine what you show to the world is troubling to me, because it starts off with the impression that they are a controllable factor. To be perfectly honest, there's nothing one can do about the people that come to comment save for on a one-on-one basis, and trying to control that on the supply side only really hurts the artist in the end.
3. "I want people to like my art for its quality."
-The assumption that porn is the anathema to quality is something I've already addressed in another journal, but even aside from that, it runs right back to the assumption that you can control the people that come to see your work. If you show people something, they're going to interpret it their way- that's how art works.
4. "I feel conscientious, as relatives/friends/children may see it."
-So let me get this straight, your best friend from church, your Aunt Hattie and a ten year old are going to register for a website that's devoted to porn, log on, and hunt you down.
Either that's preposterous, or all of these people have a lot to answer for themselves, seeking out obscure porn like that! Not a whole lot of high ground for them. And in the second place, so what? We all like to keep secrets, yes, but it's not crippling that somebody should know you just happen to have a libido. You share that with someone, you know: EVERYONE. Even people who claim to be non-sexual are bound by biology, and there is a key that will turn their lock, even if they don't recognize it as that. It's a part of us as humans, it's not a big deal.
5. "I just don't feel like drawing porn anymore."
-Okay! That's totally fine, don't! But don't pretend you never did it. The act of not drawing adult art is completely natural, but the urges to cover this up are the vestiges of shame and deeper issues.
So the point is, be honest with yourself, above all, and encourage others to do the same.
Memes to clog your inbox
Posted 16 years ago1. What is your character's name?
Norithics Kusemurai (pronounced Kyoose-muh-rye, put down your Eng->Jap handbooks.)
2. What is your character's name in another language?
His full name? Nothing. But the nickname "Nori?" Let's see. Seaweed, paste, ride, and law.
3. How old is she/he?
19.
4. What is your character's race/species?
Raccoon, with just a smidge of tanuki somewhere down his family line.
5. Do they have a crush?
Crushes are for kids. Either you like somebody or you don't.
6. Do they have many friends?
A good deal.
7. What planet is your character from?
Yours.
8. Does your character like to eat?
He loves to eat just about anything he can get his hands on, be the fare banquet or bin.
9. What's her/his favorite food?
Fish-batter fried chicken.
10. What's her/his favorite drink?
Gourmet root beer.
11. Is your character annoying?
That depends entirely on whether you enjoy being spontaneously inflated or expanded in perverted ways.
13. Is your character loved?
In the butt, often.
14. Is your character hated?
Mostly by the overly-conservative.
15. Is she/he emo/goth?
Not in the least.
16. Is she/he straight, bisexual, or gay?
He'll try just about anything with a friend.
17. Is she/he a virgin?
Hahah!
18. Name 3 hobbies
Scheming, ruling his misfit army and figuring out new ways to blow people up- the fun way.
19. Is your character normal?
He is! Well, aside from an oversized pantsbulge, anyway. He's completely normal and limited by this- it's people he knows and things he uses that are strange.
20. Is your character attractive?
People tell me so, for various reasons. He's kind of a pillow bitch in appearance.
21. How does your character handle emotions?
He's very frank but tactful, and tends not to hide much if he can help it.
22. Does your character have other forms?
Oh, sure. "Sexually non-threatening guy-friend" and "Excited."
23. Does your character overreact?
I don't know, considering what happens to him, I'd just say he reacts! XD
24. Is your character a criminal?
Oh, yes. He's wanted on hundreds of charges of theft, necromancy and indecent exposure.
25. Does your character go to school?
He did when he was younger, but high school was as far as he got.
26. What's her/his IQ?
A little above average.
27. Does your character have a disease/curse?
Yes, and it's forced him to give up wearing briefs forever.
28. Is your character dead?
Nope! Alive and well! Though most of his underlings tend to be.
29. Does your character have a family?
Yes, though they haven't had any screen time.
30. Has he/she encountered any tragic times in life?
He's had his ups and downs.
31. What's the best time in your character's life?
Anytime friends are around!
32. If you could name 1 friend, which would you relate to your character?
I couldn't pick one.
33. Is your character single?
I'm not, but he is.
34. Has she/he developed any relationships?
Uhh?
35. Does she/he have an element?
Borax!
36. Do you role-play your character?
Mhm! I roleplay him the most with a straight guy, interestingly.
37. Do you write about your character?
I do little one-shot comics, if that counts.
38. Does your character have a bad temper at times?
He doesn't have it in him to do much about it. He's more of an avoid/evade sort of guy.
39. Does your character get depressed?
Not really. He gets bummed out, but 'depressed' is a bit much.
40. What's your characters favorite animal?
Cute boys.
41. Does your character have any fears?
Being exposed to the greater villains for the phony that he is.
42. Does your character have any weaknesses?
Superior armies, superior villains, cute boys, sexy girls, silky things, anything with butter.
43. Does your character look up to anyone?
Anyone he's shorter than.
44. Does your character like music?
Oh, sure.
45. What's your character's favorite type of music?
He's a big fan of heavy metal.
46. Is she/he impatient?
A horde of incompetent lackeys has ensured he has the patience of a saint.
47. What's something funny about your character?
If I think of something, I'll draw it. :)
48. Name 5 nicknames
"Nori," "'Coon," "''Nuki," "Bishy Boy," "Bubble Butted Punk."
49. Does your character curse?
The eloquence of his vocabulary is inversely proportionate to how naked he is.
50. This test is over, what does your character have to say?
"A 50 question pop quiz, and not even a curvy teacher to give it. Sheesh."
Norithics Kusemurai (pronounced Kyoose-muh-rye, put down your Eng->Jap handbooks.)
2. What is your character's name in another language?
His full name? Nothing. But the nickname "Nori?" Let's see. Seaweed, paste, ride, and law.
3. How old is she/he?
19.
4. What is your character's race/species?
Raccoon, with just a smidge of tanuki somewhere down his family line.
5. Do they have a crush?
Crushes are for kids. Either you like somebody or you don't.
6. Do they have many friends?
A good deal.
7. What planet is your character from?
Yours.
8. Does your character like to eat?
He loves to eat just about anything he can get his hands on, be the fare banquet or bin.
9. What's her/his favorite food?
Fish-batter fried chicken.
10. What's her/his favorite drink?
Gourmet root beer.
11. Is your character annoying?
That depends entirely on whether you enjoy being spontaneously inflated or expanded in perverted ways.
13. Is your character loved?
In the butt, often.
14. Is your character hated?
Mostly by the overly-conservative.
15. Is she/he emo/goth?
Not in the least.
16. Is she/he straight, bisexual, or gay?
He'll try just about anything with a friend.
17. Is she/he a virgin?
Hahah!
18. Name 3 hobbies
Scheming, ruling his misfit army and figuring out new ways to blow people up- the fun way.
19. Is your character normal?
He is! Well, aside from an oversized pantsbulge, anyway. He's completely normal and limited by this- it's people he knows and things he uses that are strange.
20. Is your character attractive?
People tell me so, for various reasons. He's kind of a pillow bitch in appearance.
21. How does your character handle emotions?
He's very frank but tactful, and tends not to hide much if he can help it.
22. Does your character have other forms?
Oh, sure. "Sexually non-threatening guy-friend" and "Excited."
23. Does your character overreact?
I don't know, considering what happens to him, I'd just say he reacts! XD
24. Is your character a criminal?
Oh, yes. He's wanted on hundreds of charges of theft, necromancy and indecent exposure.
25. Does your character go to school?
He did when he was younger, but high school was as far as he got.
26. What's her/his IQ?
A little above average.
27. Does your character have a disease/curse?
Yes, and it's forced him to give up wearing briefs forever.
28. Is your character dead?
Nope! Alive and well! Though most of his underlings tend to be.
29. Does your character have a family?
Yes, though they haven't had any screen time.
30. Has he/she encountered any tragic times in life?
He's had his ups and downs.
31. What's the best time in your character's life?
Anytime friends are around!
32. If you could name 1 friend, which would you relate to your character?
I couldn't pick one.
33. Is your character single?
I'm not, but he is.
34. Has she/he developed any relationships?
Uhh?
35. Does she/he have an element?
Borax!
36. Do you role-play your character?
Mhm! I roleplay him the most with a straight guy, interestingly.
37. Do you write about your character?
I do little one-shot comics, if that counts.
38. Does your character have a bad temper at times?
He doesn't have it in him to do much about it. He's more of an avoid/evade sort of guy.
39. Does your character get depressed?
Not really. He gets bummed out, but 'depressed' is a bit much.
40. What's your characters favorite animal?
Cute boys.
41. Does your character have any fears?
Being exposed to the greater villains for the phony that he is.
42. Does your character have any weaknesses?
Superior armies, superior villains, cute boys, sexy girls, silky things, anything with butter.
43. Does your character look up to anyone?
Anyone he's shorter than.
44. Does your character like music?
Oh, sure.
45. What's your character's favorite type of music?
He's a big fan of heavy metal.
46. Is she/he impatient?
A horde of incompetent lackeys has ensured he has the patience of a saint.
47. What's something funny about your character?
If I think of something, I'll draw it. :)
48. Name 5 nicknames
"Nori," "'Coon," "''Nuki," "Bishy Boy," "Bubble Butted Punk."
49. Does your character curse?
The eloquence of his vocabulary is inversely proportionate to how naked he is.
50. This test is over, what does your character have to say?
"A 50 question pop quiz, and not even a curvy teacher to give it. Sheesh."
On Critique and Improvement
Posted 16 years agoYou know, I was thinking recently about critique in general. I like to critique artwork for the betterment of the artists, but I've been slacking off lately. Partially due to a general slackerism about me, but also partially due to... well, a little bit of trepidation.
Anyone who's taken the time and effort to critique artwork and been rebuffed knows that there's at least a little feeling of "well, I just wasted my time with you!" Occasionally even a "who do you think you are?" Replies to the refuting of critique tend to span anything from "well I'm basically going to disregard that for arbitrary reasons" to "I don't take critiques" to "I knew that." And they're discouraging! No matter how good of a sport you want to be about it, you'll always feel just a little bit irritated- especially if they go and make another picture with the same mistake!
But I've been considering something lately. What if critique isn't instantly useful? Sure, you might tell someone what's wrong with that leg, and you might explain the hell out of it! You might even have a diagram showing how to draw it! But what I'm suggesting is that this may not be useful.
At least, not then. Not yet. I remember a little while back when I was drawing torsos that were just too damnably long, and everyone else could see it... except me. I just honestly could not wrap my mind around why they looked right to everyone else and wrong to me. Eventually I worked it out, and now I can completely see in comparison to my newer drawings, why that looked so terribly wrong.
What was the deal? Why couldn't I see it, even after studying charts and diagrams and people themselves? I think that there's such a thing as an "artist's eye," a slowly changing perception of how spatial relations work in our minds that improves as we incrementally observe things about the world around us- and the things we create. It seems to be like a muscle that we have to continually work- hard, AND smart- in order to develop it. The more you use it, the more artistically heavy lifting it can do. But you can't just jump from lifting 5 lbs. to 500, and in that same vein, the muscle memory must be gradually worked up to improve.
What does this mean to us as the critiqued? Chill out. You're excited about your work, that's cool. But don't take it personally if someone gives you a tip on your form, even if it's bad- the intentions are never to destroy your workout, but rather, to improve it. There's no reason to be afraid of critique. Your progression as an artist is not you as a person, it's the way you achieve what you want to do. If you block off critique- even in advance- you're really just sending a signal that tells everybody "I don't like to have my fun ruined by criticism, I just want the good parts of social networking." Which can come off as a tad arrogant or oversensitive.
And likewise, as critiqeurs, don't be overtly negative about what someone's doing. Encourage them with helpful hints. You don't tell someone at the gym, "hey, dude, your form's all wrong, there." You say something like, "nice to see you getting out to the gym! Hey, if you really wanna maximize your workout, try this technique, or reference this book right here. Helped me out, and this other guys swears by it." You see the difference? You're not discouraging them by telling them they're doing the wrong thing- and thus producing an environment of percieved nitpicking- you're motivating them to get better! And when people improve, everyone wins.
Anyone who's taken the time and effort to critique artwork and been rebuffed knows that there's at least a little feeling of "well, I just wasted my time with you!" Occasionally even a "who do you think you are?" Replies to the refuting of critique tend to span anything from "well I'm basically going to disregard that for arbitrary reasons" to "I don't take critiques" to "I knew that." And they're discouraging! No matter how good of a sport you want to be about it, you'll always feel just a little bit irritated- especially if they go and make another picture with the same mistake!
But I've been considering something lately. What if critique isn't instantly useful? Sure, you might tell someone what's wrong with that leg, and you might explain the hell out of it! You might even have a diagram showing how to draw it! But what I'm suggesting is that this may not be useful.
At least, not then. Not yet. I remember a little while back when I was drawing torsos that were just too damnably long, and everyone else could see it... except me. I just honestly could not wrap my mind around why they looked right to everyone else and wrong to me. Eventually I worked it out, and now I can completely see in comparison to my newer drawings, why that looked so terribly wrong.
What was the deal? Why couldn't I see it, even after studying charts and diagrams and people themselves? I think that there's such a thing as an "artist's eye," a slowly changing perception of how spatial relations work in our minds that improves as we incrementally observe things about the world around us- and the things we create. It seems to be like a muscle that we have to continually work- hard, AND smart- in order to develop it. The more you use it, the more artistically heavy lifting it can do. But you can't just jump from lifting 5 lbs. to 500, and in that same vein, the muscle memory must be gradually worked up to improve.
What does this mean to us as the critiqued? Chill out. You're excited about your work, that's cool. But don't take it personally if someone gives you a tip on your form, even if it's bad- the intentions are never to destroy your workout, but rather, to improve it. There's no reason to be afraid of critique. Your progression as an artist is not you as a person, it's the way you achieve what you want to do. If you block off critique- even in advance- you're really just sending a signal that tells everybody "I don't like to have my fun ruined by criticism, I just want the good parts of social networking." Which can come off as a tad arrogant or oversensitive.
And likewise, as critiqeurs, don't be overtly negative about what someone's doing. Encourage them with helpful hints. You don't tell someone at the gym, "hey, dude, your form's all wrong, there." You say something like, "nice to see you getting out to the gym! Hey, if you really wanna maximize your workout, try this technique, or reference this book right here. Helped me out, and this other guys swears by it." You see the difference? You're not discouraging them by telling them they're doing the wrong thing- and thus producing an environment of percieved nitpicking- you're motivating them to get better! And when people improve, everyone wins.
You did it for the what? (Ranting)
Posted 16 years agoI can't stand it anymore. It's like I'm the only person who sees the gigantic pink elephant taking a shit in the middle of the room.
NOBODY THINKS LULZ ARE FUNNY.
Never since Anarchist Punk philosophy have I seen such an ill thought-out amalgamation of bullshit for people to tell themselves. This braying donkey style of guerilla conversation does nothing but annoy the rest of us while a few pretend they're having fun, high-fiving each other to keep the hype going. It's like watching a bunch of kids hitting a dog with a stick. They have to continually compliment one another on their moronic antics, or the fun goes away- because somebody might actually have to admit that, no, that wasn't funny. It was just dumb or meaninglessly spiteful in a pathetic attempt to tap into the reptile part of our brains that loves to one-up each other.
This retarded clusterfuck of "cool kid" high school backslapping has become a refuge for anyone professing to express a dissenting opinion without wanting to commit to it or face conflict in an honest way. Anybody can be accepted as long as they appear like enough of a wanna-be sociopath. And worse, everyone else is expected to conform to this- and it's fucking working. People are being intimidated into thinking that the wave of morons bringing this about are invincible because they don't play by any rules, and so the only safe thing is to play along with this farce. Well I, for one, refuse to be wooed by this dishonest discarding of thought.
You wanna express a dissenting opinion? Put it out there, and have a good point. Don't try to dress it up with sarcasm and distanced hyperbole to be 'cool.'
You wanna criticize someone? Learn some communication skills and put it to it to their face. You can actually help someone improve that way, rather than by hiding in your imageboard dungeon jacking your buddies off in all caps.
You wanna be irreverent? Go for it! But put some thought and effort into it rather than being a ridiculously derivative cunt.
But whatever you do, don't just accept this crap as truth. PLEASE.
Oh, that felt good.
NOBODY THINKS LULZ ARE FUNNY.
Never since Anarchist Punk philosophy have I seen such an ill thought-out amalgamation of bullshit for people to tell themselves. This braying donkey style of guerilla conversation does nothing but annoy the rest of us while a few pretend they're having fun, high-fiving each other to keep the hype going. It's like watching a bunch of kids hitting a dog with a stick. They have to continually compliment one another on their moronic antics, or the fun goes away- because somebody might actually have to admit that, no, that wasn't funny. It was just dumb or meaninglessly spiteful in a pathetic attempt to tap into the reptile part of our brains that loves to one-up each other.
This retarded clusterfuck of "cool kid" high school backslapping has become a refuge for anyone professing to express a dissenting opinion without wanting to commit to it or face conflict in an honest way. Anybody can be accepted as long as they appear like enough of a wanna-be sociopath. And worse, everyone else is expected to conform to this- and it's fucking working. People are being intimidated into thinking that the wave of morons bringing this about are invincible because they don't play by any rules, and so the only safe thing is to play along with this farce. Well I, for one, refuse to be wooed by this dishonest discarding of thought.
You wanna express a dissenting opinion? Put it out there, and have a good point. Don't try to dress it up with sarcasm and distanced hyperbole to be 'cool.'
You wanna criticize someone? Learn some communication skills and put it to it to their face. You can actually help someone improve that way, rather than by hiding in your imageboard dungeon jacking your buddies off in all caps.
You wanna be irreverent? Go for it! But put some thought and effort into it rather than being a ridiculously derivative cunt.
But whatever you do, don't just accept this crap as truth. PLEASE.
Oh, that felt good.
Done moving -AND- Why am I a girl?
Posted 16 years agoWell, it took some time, money, and turning all my muscles into gelatin, but chayfox and I are moved into our new house, now! Thanks for all the moral support. We're happy to be done with that, save for getting some dishes and stuff over.
And while I've got it fresh in my mind, why is it that so often I get mistaken for a girl online? This happens with surprising regularity.
chayfox and I are moved into our new house, now! Thanks for all the moral support. We're happy to be done with that, save for getting some dishes and stuff over. And while I've got it fresh in my mind, why is it that so often I get mistaken for a girl online? This happens with surprising regularity.
My growing list of mean things to say
Posted 16 years agoYou're so unsmooth I could shave with you.
Oh, you have a token gay friend? Please feebly try to compare me to them.
No no, I'm fascinated by your originality in quoting Family Guy!
You like everything except country? It's time for six hours of bagpipe disco, jackass.
No, you didn't play Quake, and if you did, you would've sucked at it.
One aimless screaming rant later, you're not trying to take it out on me. Oh joy of joys! I'll just bill the company for my antacids, then, please carry on.
I'm sorry, but I refuse to relent that your shitty pop bands of the 60's were genius simply because I play the guitar.
I'm sorry, but I refuse to relent that your shitty pop bands of the 80's were genius simply because I play the guitar.
Not physically attacking you does not make me your friend.
No, I will not draw your portrait. Yes, that does make you self-important.
I am a passenger on our joint plane trip, not a confessional.
No, 'Crazy' implies mental capacity for such a thing. You fall more under 'stupid' or 'catatonic.'
You just ate three bowls of chili, your blood sugar is NOT too low.
Don't worry, laughing after every sentence you speak is definitely a replacement for actual charisma.
Oh, you have a token gay friend? Please feebly try to compare me to them.
No no, I'm fascinated by your originality in quoting Family Guy!
You like everything except country? It's time for six hours of bagpipe disco, jackass.
No, you didn't play Quake, and if you did, you would've sucked at it.
One aimless screaming rant later, you're not trying to take it out on me. Oh joy of joys! I'll just bill the company for my antacids, then, please carry on.
I'm sorry, but I refuse to relent that your shitty pop bands of the 60's were genius simply because I play the guitar.
I'm sorry, but I refuse to relent that your shitty pop bands of the 80's were genius simply because I play the guitar.
Not physically attacking you does not make me your friend.
No, I will not draw your portrait. Yes, that does make you self-important.
I am a passenger on our joint plane trip, not a confessional.
No, 'Crazy' implies mental capacity for such a thing. You fall more under 'stupid' or 'catatonic.'
You just ate three bowls of chili, your blood sugar is NOT too low.
Don't worry, laughing after every sentence you speak is definitely a replacement for actual charisma.
We put the "homo" in "homeowners!"
Posted 16 years agoWell, after much, MUCH financial wrangling and paper pushing, chayfox and I have bought a house! And to boot, the mortgage is less than $500 a month. Like flesh-eating ghouls, we've profited from the financial apocalypse in a very serious way. Hooray! That said, he and I may be slowing down significantly with the creative works until we're all moved. Capiché? Great!
Also, I've been having fun with this Ad Spot series for Nanotech #73. It's lots of fun to imagine if bust size was as easily applicable and safe as, say, mascara. It's also been an intriguing thing trying to channel the characters in question and reveal a more adult side of them without seeming too far out of character for them. It's been an interesting challenge, as the common perception seems to be that there's only ever two entities: the canon character, and a horrible slutty caracature of them that disregards their personality entirely. I'm trying to shoot for something slightly more believable. It's a lot more work, but man it's fun. And I've got another one lined up hopefully for later tomorrow. There'll be more yellow in your lives soon. :)
chayfox and I have bought a house! And to boot, the mortgage is less than $500 a month. Like flesh-eating ghouls, we've profited from the financial apocalypse in a very serious way. Hooray! That said, he and I may be slowing down significantly with the creative works until we're all moved. Capiché? Great!Also, I've been having fun with this Ad Spot series for Nanotech #73. It's lots of fun to imagine if bust size was as easily applicable and safe as, say, mascara. It's also been an intriguing thing trying to channel the characters in question and reveal a more adult side of them without seeming too far out of character for them. It's been an interesting challenge, as the common perception seems to be that there's only ever two entities: the canon character, and a horrible slutty caracature of them that disregards their personality entirely. I'm trying to shoot for something slightly more believable. It's a lot more work, but man it's fun. And I've got another one lined up hopefully for later tomorrow. There'll be more yellow in your lives soon. :)
Get a cameo in Chay's -The Mobian Chronicles-!
Posted 16 years agoHey, dudes, dudettes and as-of-yet uncategorized dude-like beings! My boyfriend chayfox has an opportunity lined up for you to get a cameo in his most excellent Sonic the Hedgehog fanfiction, The Mobian Chronicles. He needs extras, and so he figured what better way to get a convincing variety of people in his story than to invite others to have a part! It's going to be very cool.
But enough talk, HAVE AT YOU!
chayfox has an opportunity lined up for you to get a cameo in his most excellent Sonic the Hedgehog fanfiction, The Mobian Chronicles. He needs extras, and so he figured what better way to get a convincing variety of people in his story than to invite others to have a part! It's going to be very cool.But enough talk, HAVE AT YOU!
Furry Artists and Fans - A Guide
Posted 16 years agoI've been slowly observing a lot of different takes on this same situation, but they always seem to fall on one side or the other of it, without any real thoughtful discussion. So as usual, I'm gonna break it down, point by point, on common situations and how they should be handled.
ARTISTS
Q: I tried to talk to my favorite artist via notes or instant message, but they either wouldn't respond or were very short with me. Why do they think that I'm not worth their time?
A: There is a very good chance that they don't think that. The fact is, giving people thoughtful feedback can take time and effort, and just because someone is gifted artistically does not mean that they're any good at anything social. But let's assume that this pencil-wielding person is talkative and intelligent, and that leads us to...
Q: I see this artist on instant messaging programs, and I try to talk to them or schedule something fun, but they always end up politely shrugging me off. And on top of that, I see them going off and doing that very thing with somebody else! I just want to be their friend, and they're playing favorites!
A: Yes. They are playing favorites, no matter how callous it may seem, and that's okay. Everyone has to! There are a lot of people that we meet in life, and although they may all be nice, polite individuals, not everyone is really going to seem like the kind of person you'll enjoy being around- it's like the difference between hanging out with your best friend and your Aunt Gertrude. It's nothing personal, it's just that your particular conversational groove and theirs don't jive. If you met them playing a game or something like that and things haven't progressed beyond that, then take them as a friend in that context and treasure that for what it is.
Q: But I'm commenting on their art all the time! Shouldn't they owe me a little conversation in return?
A: No, not really. If anybody, artists owe the webmaster! The thing is, an artist is placing their work up in most cases completely for free, in the hopes that someone else will enjoy what they've managed to come up with. If you comment on their work, nine times out of ten they're going to love the fact that you did. It's a great act of charity to do so!
But the key word is exactly that: Charity. The artist ultimately doesn't have a lot of choice who decides to leave comments, and unless they've said that enough comments will warrant something, most likely you're not going to get anything more than maybe a reply or a good feeling that you were able to reach out to someone who is otherwise occupied. There's a reason why this system exists as it does.
Q: Damnit. My favorite artist just told me that they don't want to talk to me anymore. I still want to, though! I'm going to try again later.
A: Don't. You're really only prolonging a painful experience for the both of you. If somebody says that they don't have time to talk or something that seems a little flimsy, it's not because they're patholigical liars- it's because they want to say something that's not very nice, in a nice way. If you persist, you're only going to warrant their ignoring you or stating it more bluntly. Conversation is a lot like sex- if someone else doesn't want it, you trying to coerce them into it is not cool.
Q: I've been waiting for a commission forever, and all I get is crap about how they're having 'trouble getting inspired' or somesuch. This artist is getting blacklisted.
A: Hold on! Yes, there are a lot of scam artists, excuse the pun, but certainly they're a minority. Let's look at this objectively. Did you ask them to have it done in a certain timeframe? If you didn't, or if they told you it would take a long time, then the only person to blame for not outlining the contract, is yourself. Are they having life troubles? It's rough to do anything creative when your abusive ex-boyfriend is in town or your house is about to fall down around you. Give them a little time, and if you do contact them, ask them in a way that considers that they might have other things going on. And if they don't have anything physically stopping them from drawing, there's still the beast of inspiration. I don't take commissions, but if I did, I'd make sure every single damned one of them was the best picture I'd done to date- or at least a great rendition of what you wanted. Why? Because you didn't pay for whatever convenience could coerce out of me- you paid for art, damn it, and you're gonna get it, and love it! It just may take a while.
Q: This artist's commission prices are insane! Where do they get off?!
A: That's capitalism. They wouldn't charge that much if people weren't willing to pay. It's one of those sad facts of life. And ask yourself- even with how much they charge, can they really live off of that at the rate they make artwork? Highly doubtful. Your fifty or sixty dollars might very well be the difference between them making the electric bill this month and not.
Q: Man, this artist was a real snob/jerk to me, and all I did was state something about myself or something related to their picture.
A: This may surprise you, but the artist sphere holds exactly the same proportion of jerks, snobs, goons and posturing morons that inhabits the rest of the world. "Asshole" comes in all flavors, even "mind-bogglingly talented." Of course, some artists are just a little bit jaded and like to be sarcastic. Try not to take it personally, or avoid and evade.
FANS
Q: Wow, this guy who noted/commented is totally retarded, they can't even spell a damned thing.
A: Maybe and maybe not. People of all flavors come to look at your artwork, and none of them are any more valuable than this particular person. They might be inexperienced or young, or possibly English isn't their first language. This doesn't mean that they don't have articulate thoughts- it's just not easy for everyone to put them into pixelated words. If they're being nice, then so can you.
Q: Ugh, can the creepy perverts just go away already? I'm sick of their dumb overtly sexual commentary.
A: Let's be fair here, you did post a picture of your avatar rubbing themselves to naked bliss. You're drawing pornography! Not naked? Doesn't matter. Pornography is anything made with the intent or ability to make someone or something sexually desirable. If you can't handle that people are going to probably fap their adorable little hearts out to your work, don't make it so damned exciting, eh? You did post it on a public website that anyone can join and comment on, without a disclaimer, hoping for comments.
Q: The comments I get are so stale and repetitive. I'm really sick of it.
A: Maybe your artwork has become stale and repetitive? If there's nothing more to say about it, then you can't very well expect somebody to pull a miracle out of their hat, now can you? But even beyond this, these comments are free, from people who are taking time out of their day to do nothing but pay attention to your needy self. How about showing a little appreciation instead? And if you want critique, then ask for it!
Q: I can't stand these people that constantly post comments asking for small alterations to my pictures to cater to their fetishes. But if I come down on them, people will think I'm an ass! Is there a nice way to tell them to stop?
A: No. But there is a polite way. You simply say, "Sorry, I don't take fetish requests." Ta-dah.
Q: This guy keeps noting me, and I just don't want to talk to him. He won't take a hint! What do I do?
A: Well, first of all, don't explode on them. That just hurts your reputation. Tell them very directly that you do not want to talk anymore, and that it's nothing personal. Wish them luck. Something! If they persist, get administration involved. But whatever you do, don't string them along, or they'll only be more hurt and surprised when you drop that bomb on them.
Q: I'm worried that I won't get this commission done on time, and I depend on my customers!
A: Let them know! If you tell somebody up front, "hey, listen, before you pay me... this could take a while, depending. Is that cool?" If they say 'yes,' what more do they have to complain about? This is the most important and overlooked step to taking any commission- the contract. It's the only thing that prevents people from taking advantage of you and vice versa.
And there you have it. Not exactly comprehensive, but follow this and I guarantee much less drama for you and your symbiotic partners in this lovefest we call FA.
ARTISTS
Q: I tried to talk to my favorite artist via notes or instant message, but they either wouldn't respond or were very short with me. Why do they think that I'm not worth their time?
A: There is a very good chance that they don't think that. The fact is, giving people thoughtful feedback can take time and effort, and just because someone is gifted artistically does not mean that they're any good at anything social. But let's assume that this pencil-wielding person is talkative and intelligent, and that leads us to...
Q: I see this artist on instant messaging programs, and I try to talk to them or schedule something fun, but they always end up politely shrugging me off. And on top of that, I see them going off and doing that very thing with somebody else! I just want to be their friend, and they're playing favorites!
A: Yes. They are playing favorites, no matter how callous it may seem, and that's okay. Everyone has to! There are a lot of people that we meet in life, and although they may all be nice, polite individuals, not everyone is really going to seem like the kind of person you'll enjoy being around- it's like the difference between hanging out with your best friend and your Aunt Gertrude. It's nothing personal, it's just that your particular conversational groove and theirs don't jive. If you met them playing a game or something like that and things haven't progressed beyond that, then take them as a friend in that context and treasure that for what it is.
Q: But I'm commenting on their art all the time! Shouldn't they owe me a little conversation in return?
A: No, not really. If anybody, artists owe the webmaster! The thing is, an artist is placing their work up in most cases completely for free, in the hopes that someone else will enjoy what they've managed to come up with. If you comment on their work, nine times out of ten they're going to love the fact that you did. It's a great act of charity to do so!
But the key word is exactly that: Charity. The artist ultimately doesn't have a lot of choice who decides to leave comments, and unless they've said that enough comments will warrant something, most likely you're not going to get anything more than maybe a reply or a good feeling that you were able to reach out to someone who is otherwise occupied. There's a reason why this system exists as it does.
Q: Damnit. My favorite artist just told me that they don't want to talk to me anymore. I still want to, though! I'm going to try again later.
A: Don't. You're really only prolonging a painful experience for the both of you. If somebody says that they don't have time to talk or something that seems a little flimsy, it's not because they're patholigical liars- it's because they want to say something that's not very nice, in a nice way. If you persist, you're only going to warrant their ignoring you or stating it more bluntly. Conversation is a lot like sex- if someone else doesn't want it, you trying to coerce them into it is not cool.
Q: I've been waiting for a commission forever, and all I get is crap about how they're having 'trouble getting inspired' or somesuch. This artist is getting blacklisted.
A: Hold on! Yes, there are a lot of scam artists, excuse the pun, but certainly they're a minority. Let's look at this objectively. Did you ask them to have it done in a certain timeframe? If you didn't, or if they told you it would take a long time, then the only person to blame for not outlining the contract, is yourself. Are they having life troubles? It's rough to do anything creative when your abusive ex-boyfriend is in town or your house is about to fall down around you. Give them a little time, and if you do contact them, ask them in a way that considers that they might have other things going on. And if they don't have anything physically stopping them from drawing, there's still the beast of inspiration. I don't take commissions, but if I did, I'd make sure every single damned one of them was the best picture I'd done to date- or at least a great rendition of what you wanted. Why? Because you didn't pay for whatever convenience could coerce out of me- you paid for art, damn it, and you're gonna get it, and love it! It just may take a while.
Q: This artist's commission prices are insane! Where do they get off?!
A: That's capitalism. They wouldn't charge that much if people weren't willing to pay. It's one of those sad facts of life. And ask yourself- even with how much they charge, can they really live off of that at the rate they make artwork? Highly doubtful. Your fifty or sixty dollars might very well be the difference between them making the electric bill this month and not.
Q: Man, this artist was a real snob/jerk to me, and all I did was state something about myself or something related to their picture.
A: This may surprise you, but the artist sphere holds exactly the same proportion of jerks, snobs, goons and posturing morons that inhabits the rest of the world. "Asshole" comes in all flavors, even "mind-bogglingly talented." Of course, some artists are just a little bit jaded and like to be sarcastic. Try not to take it personally, or avoid and evade.
FANS
Q: Wow, this guy who noted/commented is totally retarded, they can't even spell a damned thing.
A: Maybe and maybe not. People of all flavors come to look at your artwork, and none of them are any more valuable than this particular person. They might be inexperienced or young, or possibly English isn't their first language. This doesn't mean that they don't have articulate thoughts- it's just not easy for everyone to put them into pixelated words. If they're being nice, then so can you.
Q: Ugh, can the creepy perverts just go away already? I'm sick of their dumb overtly sexual commentary.
A: Let's be fair here, you did post a picture of your avatar rubbing themselves to naked bliss. You're drawing pornography! Not naked? Doesn't matter. Pornography is anything made with the intent or ability to make someone or something sexually desirable. If you can't handle that people are going to probably fap their adorable little hearts out to your work, don't make it so damned exciting, eh? You did post it on a public website that anyone can join and comment on, without a disclaimer, hoping for comments.
Q: The comments I get are so stale and repetitive. I'm really sick of it.
A: Maybe your artwork has become stale and repetitive? If there's nothing more to say about it, then you can't very well expect somebody to pull a miracle out of their hat, now can you? But even beyond this, these comments are free, from people who are taking time out of their day to do nothing but pay attention to your needy self. How about showing a little appreciation instead? And if you want critique, then ask for it!
Q: I can't stand these people that constantly post comments asking for small alterations to my pictures to cater to their fetishes. But if I come down on them, people will think I'm an ass! Is there a nice way to tell them to stop?
A: No. But there is a polite way. You simply say, "Sorry, I don't take fetish requests." Ta-dah.
Q: This guy keeps noting me, and I just don't want to talk to him. He won't take a hint! What do I do?
A: Well, first of all, don't explode on them. That just hurts your reputation. Tell them very directly that you do not want to talk anymore, and that it's nothing personal. Wish them luck. Something! If they persist, get administration involved. But whatever you do, don't string them along, or they'll only be more hurt and surprised when you drop that bomb on them.
Q: I'm worried that I won't get this commission done on time, and I depend on my customers!
A: Let them know! If you tell somebody up front, "hey, listen, before you pay me... this could take a while, depending. Is that cool?" If they say 'yes,' what more do they have to complain about? This is the most important and overlooked step to taking any commission- the contract. It's the only thing that prevents people from taking advantage of you and vice versa.
And there you have it. Not exactly comprehensive, but follow this and I guarantee much less drama for you and your symbiotic partners in this lovefest we call FA.
You've been sent to Purgatory.
Posted 16 years agoDeath is a lady of the blackened robe, her raven hair and white mask all you can see of her- all you can see of anything, as a matter of fact.
"That was quite a mess," she notes absently. "I've removed your memory of it. Your death, I mean. Less traumatic that way. You'll eventually remember... or not. It's all up to you." She adjusts a crinkle in her robe, and you notice a small distortion in the emptiness of space that seems to surround you both as a result- it's distracting for a moment.
"I'm, as you can imagine, very busy. I must leave you here alone. Don't look so worried, you'll only have to stay for a short while."
Ah! It's temporary! Good. The thing that unsettles you, however, is that you're not really sure what the immortal embodiment of Death considers 'a short while.'
"While this place is not one of ecstacy nor torture, it is just a mite cold. And as you can plainly see, or not see, it's completely dark. Finally, there's really nothing to make any noise here aside from yourself. These are the three biggest complaints I get about having to stay here."
A finite but indefinable length of time spent in a sensory vacuum? It's a worrying thought, and evidently your worry shows a bit on your face.
"All right, I understand. I'm a goddess of destruction, but that's not to say I can't materialize what I need at times. I will give you a choice between one of three items you can keep for the duration of your stay. Choose carefully, but quickly- I have things to do."
The first is a blanket. It's too small for you, and either your head or chest remain uncovered at any time. Death is obviously not very practiced at materializing things from the ether, as well, because it's just a little bit threadbare. But what it is, is warm... even in its incompletion.
The second is a music box. It is easy to wind, and amusingly, plays different songs with its little mechanical chimes. But again Death's touch is apparent- they're all a little bit sad. Nevertheless, there is nothing to interfere with its melody, and so it fills the room.
The third is a crystal. It lights up the room in brilliant colors that dance around and dazzle the eye. But Death has been very explicit in saying that you cannot touch it, for it took all of her power just to make the flashing presence inside it, and the slightest contact will shatter it.
So you're stuck in a black, empty, silent space for a while- a while you don't know the extent of. Your only relief is to come of one of these items. Which item do you choose?
"That was quite a mess," she notes absently. "I've removed your memory of it. Your death, I mean. Less traumatic that way. You'll eventually remember... or not. It's all up to you." She adjusts a crinkle in her robe, and you notice a small distortion in the emptiness of space that seems to surround you both as a result- it's distracting for a moment.
"I'm, as you can imagine, very busy. I must leave you here alone. Don't look so worried, you'll only have to stay for a short while."
Ah! It's temporary! Good. The thing that unsettles you, however, is that you're not really sure what the immortal embodiment of Death considers 'a short while.'
"While this place is not one of ecstacy nor torture, it is just a mite cold. And as you can plainly see, or not see, it's completely dark. Finally, there's really nothing to make any noise here aside from yourself. These are the three biggest complaints I get about having to stay here."
A finite but indefinable length of time spent in a sensory vacuum? It's a worrying thought, and evidently your worry shows a bit on your face.
"All right, I understand. I'm a goddess of destruction, but that's not to say I can't materialize what I need at times. I will give you a choice between one of three items you can keep for the duration of your stay. Choose carefully, but quickly- I have things to do."
The first is a blanket. It's too small for you, and either your head or chest remain uncovered at any time. Death is obviously not very practiced at materializing things from the ether, as well, because it's just a little bit threadbare. But what it is, is warm... even in its incompletion.
The second is a music box. It is easy to wind, and amusingly, plays different songs with its little mechanical chimes. But again Death's touch is apparent- they're all a little bit sad. Nevertheless, there is nothing to interfere with its melody, and so it fills the room.
The third is a crystal. It lights up the room in brilliant colors that dance around and dazzle the eye. But Death has been very explicit in saying that you cannot touch it, for it took all of her power just to make the flashing presence inside it, and the slightest contact will shatter it.
So you're stuck in a black, empty, silent space for a while- a while you don't know the extent of. Your only relief is to come of one of these items. Which item do you choose?
I... LOVE Street Fighter IV.
Posted 16 years agoHonestly. There are no words. I've been waiting for this ever since people stopped playing the Alpha 3 machines in the arcades with me.
I'll be on Xbox Live.
I'll be the motherfucker playing Dan. Every time.
I'll be on Xbox Live.
I'll be the motherfucker playing Dan. Every time.
How fast do you bleed?
Posted 16 years agoSounds like a speed metal album. But, no, a genuine question! It only came to mind because I've been thinking about the difference between chayfox and I. While a cut or scrape on my flesh causes a tar-like molasses to slooowly ooze out, pricking him will produce some kind of crimson geyser, as if he was constantly under aerosol-like pressure. Mine sometimes doesn't even drip, coagulating in a mass before it has time to. Him? Takes forever to stop. I thought it was really interesting, this difference between us. So what about you? Do you bleed fast or slow? Is it hard to clot? And what's the body of it like- thick and gooey, thin and watery, or somewhere in between?
chayfox and I. While a cut or scrape on my flesh causes a tar-like molasses to slooowly ooze out, pricking him will produce some kind of crimson geyser, as if he was constantly under aerosol-like pressure. Mine sometimes doesn't even drip, coagulating in a mass before it has time to. Him? Takes forever to stop. I thought it was really interesting, this difference between us. So what about you? Do you bleed fast or slow? Is it hard to clot? And what's the body of it like- thick and gooey, thin and watery, or somewhere in between?Resident Evil 5, and thoughts on teams
Posted 16 years ago... Is a lot of fun. Holy crap they turned the difficulty to "stomp n00bs," though. I couldn't beat the first stage for the first... ten playthroughs? That's maniacal. Thankfully with the help of chayfox I was able to beat it and the second one as well- with some hilarious moments dispersed throughout.
I don't know what happened to Chris Redfield between the mansion and this, but evidently he replaced his arms with flesh-colored hydraulic zombie-punching pistons, because he's knocking people through solid wooden doors and shit. Also, I'm not sure why his voice actor sounds like a 25 year old with a kindergardener's tone of voice. "C'mon! Gimme the shotgun! I need some ammo~! T___T" And as well, the swarthy-skinned Lara Croft that he's got with him has been utterly indispensible with her high-flying kicks, Italian executions and additional gun.
Which brings me to a larger point I'd like to make. I like the recent uptick in team-up scenarios in games. Teamwork has so many more elements for plot, gameplay mechanics, and- well, believability. That Maria from Dracula X: Rondo of Blood can simply waltz her way through a castle full of undead and execute somebody who has Death as his bitch is just a little bit of a stretch. Now, two skilled people going in and working together, like Jonathan and Charlotte from Portrait of Ruin? That's a lot more doable. This also tends to cause writers to make actual characters out of them, interacting with each other based on the way that they are and their history together- or lack thereof. There's less silent protagonist crap that doesn't leave us with any idea who this person is.
Another reason why I like the team up is because it makes the single character actually significant. If a teammate is out of commission or captured and one person has to do something suddenly, it's very significant due to the increase in difficulty. And if there's an alternate play mode with a single person doing what it took a team to, you really get a sense for how skilled or powerful that character is.
All that being said, I look forward to RE5. I'm just afraid what manner of merchant we'll be meeting this time.
chayfox I was able to beat it and the second one as well- with some hilarious moments dispersed throughout. I don't know what happened to Chris Redfield between the mansion and this, but evidently he replaced his arms with flesh-colored hydraulic zombie-punching pistons, because he's knocking people through solid wooden doors and shit. Also, I'm not sure why his voice actor sounds like a 25 year old with a kindergardener's tone of voice. "C'mon! Gimme the shotgun! I need some ammo~! T___T" And as well, the swarthy-skinned Lara Croft that he's got with him has been utterly indispensible with her high-flying kicks, Italian executions and additional gun.
Which brings me to a larger point I'd like to make. I like the recent uptick in team-up scenarios in games. Teamwork has so many more elements for plot, gameplay mechanics, and- well, believability. That Maria from Dracula X: Rondo of Blood can simply waltz her way through a castle full of undead and execute somebody who has Death as his bitch is just a little bit of a stretch. Now, two skilled people going in and working together, like Jonathan and Charlotte from Portrait of Ruin? That's a lot more doable. This also tends to cause writers to make actual characters out of them, interacting with each other based on the way that they are and their history together- or lack thereof. There's less silent protagonist crap that doesn't leave us with any idea who this person is.
Another reason why I like the team up is because it makes the single character actually significant. If a teammate is out of commission or captured and one person has to do something suddenly, it's very significant due to the increase in difficulty. And if there's an alternate play mode with a single person doing what it took a team to, you really get a sense for how skilled or powerful that character is.
All that being said, I look forward to RE5. I'm just afraid what manner of merchant we'll be meeting this time.
Fresh Thoughts for the New Year
Posted 17 years agoI've mastered my style.
That's not to say I'm some sort of machine that's worked out the hows and wheres of everything I could possibly draw. Rather, the way I draw most things right now is at its peak. I know how everything in it is put together, how it works, and what goes into it. How it starts, how it finishes. The bottom line, and the reason why I've felt uninspired is... it's limiting me.
I don't need to practice it all the time out of fear for forgetting it. I've got it. And so, now I'm free. I've got so many other ideas and concepts I'd like to explore, and so many tools to flesh them out with. Who knows where it'll take me? And I'm for sure holding onto what I've already got- the Mobian style, the broad-bodied style, and the more detailed realistic one. Onto new ventures!
That's not to say I'm some sort of machine that's worked out the hows and wheres of everything I could possibly draw. Rather, the way I draw most things right now is at its peak. I know how everything in it is put together, how it works, and what goes into it. How it starts, how it finishes. The bottom line, and the reason why I've felt uninspired is... it's limiting me.
I don't need to practice it all the time out of fear for forgetting it. I've got it. And so, now I'm free. I've got so many other ideas and concepts I'd like to explore, and so many tools to flesh them out with. Who knows where it'll take me? And I'm for sure holding onto what I've already got- the Mobian style, the broad-bodied style, and the more detailed realistic one. Onto new ventures!
Addiction, thy name is Shamisen
Posted 17 years agoI've been searching for nearly a year for any good music involving the shamisen, an instrument from China that migrated to Japan, where it took on its own personality thanks to some rather unique talent. It's basically like a three-stringed banjo, and in kung fu films you might hear it as that twangy "tong tang ting" sound in the background.
I first heard the musical style when playing Pocky & Rocky, and as a kid I thought, "Hey, that's pretty cool. I wonder if there's any more of that. Too bad the Internet doesn't exist yet."
And now that it does, I've finally found the amazing talent that comprises the Yoshida Brothers. Oh my god, I bought their first two albums off of iTunes within like six hours, because it is FULL of awesome traditional and modern goodness. If you like Tsugaru Shamisen, or you just like to hear something so Japanese you're like "DAMN I can taste the samurai sushi bars," I would recommend the living shit out of these guys, because I've been blissing out on it.
However! If those of you who know more about this than me are reading, then hook a brother up, you bastards! Where can I find more of this style of awesomeness? Give me names, and references are better.
This is so baffling to me. I'm a metalhead, I haven't ever been this excited about acoustic instruments.
I first heard the musical style when playing Pocky & Rocky, and as a kid I thought, "Hey, that's pretty cool. I wonder if there's any more of that. Too bad the Internet doesn't exist yet."
And now that it does, I've finally found the amazing talent that comprises the Yoshida Brothers. Oh my god, I bought their first two albums off of iTunes within like six hours, because it is FULL of awesome traditional and modern goodness. If you like Tsugaru Shamisen, or you just like to hear something so Japanese you're like "DAMN I can taste the samurai sushi bars," I would recommend the living shit out of these guys, because I've been blissing out on it.
However! If those of you who know more about this than me are reading, then hook a brother up, you bastards! Where can I find more of this style of awesomeness? Give me names, and references are better.
This is so baffling to me. I'm a metalhead, I haven't ever been this excited about acoustic instruments.
I'll be damned, I've finally got a weapon.
Posted 17 years agoFor so long, despite being pretty competant hand-to-hand, I've been convinced that there just wasn't a weapon for me.
I tried staffs of all sorts- they mostly ended up hitting me.
I tried blades- that was a bad, bad idea.
I tried firearms- my marksmanship is the only thing worse than my smell, and the motion is so akward.
I even tried some exotic weapons, to no avail.
But after a month of practice, I can confidently say, nunchaku are my weapon of choice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbZ5nt-v6pM
I'm not exactly Bruce Lee, but I don't hit myself in the face OR balls every time I use them, which is 1000% better than anything else.
The curse is gone. :3
I tried staffs of all sorts- they mostly ended up hitting me.
I tried blades- that was a bad, bad idea.
I tried firearms- my marksmanship is the only thing worse than my smell, and the motion is so akward.
I even tried some exotic weapons, to no avail.
But after a month of practice, I can confidently say, nunchaku are my weapon of choice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbZ5nt-v6pM
I'm not exactly Bruce Lee, but I don't hit myself in the face OR balls every time I use them, which is 1000% better than anything else.
The curse is gone. :3
