FOR BEGINNER AND NON-BEGINNER WITCH :

SOME BOOKS RECOMMENDATIONS THAT I THINK ARE GOOD

FOR BEGINNER AND NON-BEGINNER WITCH :

psychic witch by mat Auryn

Secret teaching of all ages encyclopedia of esoteric teaching

weave the liminal by Laura tempest zakroff

six ways by aidan wachter

the grek magical papyri in translation edited by dieter betz

the complete grimoire by lidia pradas

witchery by juliat diaz

spells for change by frankie castanea

celtic witchcraft by mabh savage

the althlone hiatory of witchcraft and magic in europe

the spell book for new witches by ambrosia hawthorn

kate freuler of blood and bones by mat Auryn

the kitchen witch's spell book by cerridwen greenleaf

love spells by anastasia greywolf

encyclopedia of magic herbs by scott Cunningham

guided tarot by stefanie caponi

the witch's journal by selene silverwind

the casting of spells by Christopher penczak

sacred essential oils edited by claire waite brown

the crystal bible by judy hall

the magical household by scott Cunningham

wicca in the kitchen by scott Cunningham

the house witch by arin Murphy-Hiscock

the heart witch's compendium by anna franklin

the heart witch's kitchen herbal by anna franklin

a spell book for the season

the complete illustrated book of herbs

italian folk magic by mary grace fahrun

the complete illustrated guide to palmistry by peter west

apractical step by step guide to herbs for the home and garden by Shirley reid

top 50 edible plants for pots by angie thomas

the mystical magical marvelous world of DREAMS by wilda b. tanner

the eclectic witch's book of shadows by deborah blake

plant witchery by Juliet diaz

the witch at thd forest's edge

subtle energy by keith miller

protection&reversal magick by jason miller

curses,hexes&crossing by S. connolly

modern witch by devin hunter

the complete book of incense,oils&brews by scott Cunningham

encyclopedia of 5000 spells by judika illes

the good witch's journal by selene silverwind

inner magic a guide to witchcraft

spell crafting by arin Murphy

the green witch by arin murphy

moon magic by diane ahlquist

protection magick by cassandra eason

the little big book by ileana abrev

herbal remedies by andrew chevallier

witchcraft for healing by patti wigington

complete book of correspondences by sandra kynes

poppet magick by silver davenwolf

earth medicine by kenneth meadows

earth power by scott Cunningham

a century of spells by draja mickaharic

positive magic by marion Weinstein

SOME BOOKS RECOMMENDATIONS THAT I THINK ARE GOOD

How to Secure Admission as an International Student in UK Universities.

This article has been a long time coming. I decided to put together useful tips to help international students from Africa, who dream of pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK, you’re not alone. As one, who ventured on this path alone without the help or support of a travel agent, to becoming an international student ambassador, I have detailed all the steps I took to make your transition smooth.

Every year, over 430,000 international students from 180+ countries study in the UK’s diverse and world-class universities . In fact, nearly half of those students are in postgraduate programs proving that the UK is a top destination for master’s and PhD studies.

The UK postgraduate application process for international students can seem daunting, but this friendly guide (from one international student to another) will walk you through each key step, from initial research to enrollment with tips tailored for African applicants.

How To Secure Admission As An International Student In UK Universities.

By following these steps rightly, you’ll be well on your way to study in the UK.

Step 1: Research UK Universities and Postgraduate Courses

The first step is to research the courses and universities that match your interests and career goals. The UK has a wide variety of postgraduate programs, one-year taught Master’s degrees (e.g. MA, MSc), research degrees (MPhil/PhD), MBAs, and more across dozens of universities. Here’s how to get started:

• Identify your field of study:

Think about your intended subject and whether you want a taught course or research-based program. For example, do you want an MSc in Data Science or an MBA in Finance? This will narrow down your options.

• Use course search tools:

Leverage official resources like the UCAS postgraduate course search tool to find courses across different universities . You can filter by subject, location, and start date. The British Council’s Study UK site also has a course and scholarship finder to explore programs in the UK. (Useful Links and Sources are below)

• Check university rankings & reputation:

While rankings aren’t everything, they can give you an idea of a university’s strengths. More importantly, read about each university’s facilities, faculty, and support for international students. Many UK universities have a strong track record of research and teaching quality.

• Consider location and environment:

Do you prefer a bustling city like London or a quieter town? The UK offers big metropolitan campuses and smaller campus towns. Factor in cost of living too – London can be more expensive than other cities.

• Connect with current students or alumni:

If possible, reach out to African students currently studying in the UK (through social media groups or alumni networks). They can share first-hand insights about their university and course.

Personal Protip: You can choose to attend education fairs hosted by the British Council in your country, where UK university representatives could answer your questions. This would help you feel more confident about shortlisting your target universities.

Step 2: Check Admission Requirements (Qualifications and Language)

Once you have a shortlist of courses, the next step is to check the entry requirements for each program to ensure you’re eligible. UK universities will clearly list the qualifications and documents needed for admission. Pay attention to:

• Academic qualifications:

Verify that your undergraduate degree is equivalent to the UK requirements. Most UK Master’s programs require the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree with a certain grade (often a Second Class Honours upper division or “2:1” for competitive courses, or at least a 2:2 for others). Each school may have guidance on international qualifications. For example, the University of Cambridge advises applicants to “check that your non-UK qualifications meet the course requirements” . If you’re unsure how your African degree (e.g. a Nigerian BSc or a Ghanaian bachelor’s) compares, you can consult resources like UK ENIC (formerly NARIC) or ask the university’s admissions office for clarification. Generally, universities are familiar with common African qualifications and grading systems.

• English language proficiency:

If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to prove you can speak, read, and write English at the required level . For most African countries, even if English is an official language (like Nigeria, Kenya, or Ghana), universities often require an English test unless you completed a prior degree in English. The typical tests accepted are IELTS or TOEFL. For instance, a university might ask for an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no section below 6.0. Tip: Some universities may waive the test if you studied in English or have a high grade in a recognized English exam (like WAEC English in West Africa), but check the policy of each university. And remember, proof of English is not just for admission – it’s also needed for your visa. The UK visa requires you to meet a minimum English standard or come from an English-speaking country .

• Prerequisites and specific requirements:

Certain programs might have additional requirements. For example, an MBA might require work experience or a GMAT score; a PhD program will likely ask for a research proposal and to find a supervisor; some creative courses may require a portfolio. Make sure you note any such requirements early so you can prepare for them.

• Application deadlines:

Unlike undergraduate programs that have fixed UCAS deadlines, postgraduate application deadlines can vary. Many UK universities have rolling admissions for Masters courses, but popular programs (or scholarships) may have specific deadlines. Check if the course has a deadline or a recommended latest date to apply (often a few months before the course start). It’s generally advised to apply at least 6-9 months in advance. As an international student, applying early gives you time to sort out your visa and funding. (For courses starting in September, a good target is to apply by January–March of the same year.)

Note: Ensure that your name on all documents (passport, certificates, transcripts) is consistent. Any discrepancies (like different name spellings) should be backed by an affidavit or explanation, to avoid confusion during admission or visa stages. Also, if your documents aren’t in English (for example, French-speaking African countries), you’ll need official translations.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents

With requirements in mind, start gathering and preparing the supporting documents you’ll need for your applications. A strong and complete application package will increase your chances of admission. Common application materials include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates:

You’ll need official transcripts from your undergraduate university, showing your courses and grades, and the degree certificate if you have graduated. If you’re in your final year of undergrad, you can usually apply with interim transcripts and provide the final result later. Make sure to have these documents in PDF format (and translated to English if necessary).

• Personal statement or statement of purpose:

This is a critical piece of your application where you introduce yourself, explain why you want to study the course, and how you’re qualified and motivated. It’s your chance to shine beyond grades. Be sure to tailor each personal statement to the specific course and university, mention what excites you about their program or faculty. Explain any aspects of your background (like projects, work experience, or research interests) that make you a good candidate. Keep the tone professional but genuine. As an African student, you can highlight unique perspectives or experiences you bring, but also convey that you understand what studying in the UK entails.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume:

Most postgraduate applications will ask for your CV to detail your educational background, any work experience, internships, publications, or relevant skills. Focus on experiences related to your field. Keep it concise (1-2 pages) and up-to-date.

• Letters of recommendation (references):

Typically, you’ll need two academic references for a Masters application (often from professors or lecturers who know your work) . If you’ve been out of school for a while, one professional reference (from a supervisor at work) may be acceptable. It’s crucial to ask your referees early so they can enough have time to write a thoughtful recommendation. Provide them with your CV and statement so they have context. Universities usually have referees submit their letters directly through an online link or via official email, but you as the applicant will need to enter their contact details in the application system.

Pro tip: Don’t delay your application waiting for a slow professor to send the letter, you can often submit and have the letters added later. However, the admissions committee won’t review your application until references are received, so gently remind your referees if needed.

• Passport copy:

As an international applicant, you’ll be asked to upload a clear copy of your passport ID page. Make sure your passport will be valid through the duration of your studies. If it’s expiring soon, renew it now.

• Proof of English proficiency:

If required, attach your IELTS, TOEFL, or other test score report. Some universities allow you to apply first and provide the test result later as a condition of the offer. Check the policy, if you already have a satisfactory score, include it. (For example, you might upload your IELTS certificate showing you meet the minimum scores).

• Other documents:

Depending on the course, you may also need to include a research proposal (for research-based programs or PhDs), a portfolio of work (for art/design courses), or a writing sample. The application instructions will spell out if these are needed. Always read the specific requirements for each course and prepare those items.

Before submitting, be sure to double-check that all required documents are included. A missing document could delay your application review . Being organized and thorough at this stage sets you up for success.

Step 4: Submit Your Application (How to Apply to UK Universities from Africa)

Now comes the big moment, submitting your applications to the chosen university. Fortunately, the process of how to apply to UK universities from Africa is straightforward and done online.

But here’s what to expect:

• Direct applications vs. UCAS:

Unlike undergraduate admissions, which are done through the centralized UCAS system, most postgraduate applications are submitted directly to each university. You will typically create an account on the university’s online application portal, fill in your details, upload documents, and submit.

UCAS does have a service called UCAS Postgraduate, but it’s used by only a small number of institutions . In the vast majority of cases, you’ll apply on the university’s own website. (For example, if you’re applying to the University of Manchester and University of Leeds, you’ll fill out two separate online forms on their respective sites.)

• Application form:

Be prepared to fill in personal information (name, contact, etc.), details of your education history, and the course you’re applying for. You’ll either upload your personal statement as a file or paste it into a text box. The same goes for your CV. For references, you usually provide referee contact emails so the university can solicit the letters directly.

• Application fees:

Some UK universities charge an application fee for postgraduate programs (fees can range from £25 to £60 per application), while many others are free to apply. Check the university’s admissions page to see if there’s a fee and how to pay it (credit card online). Plan for these costs for each application, or seek fee waivers if available (occasionally, schools waive fees for certain countries or during fairs).

• Number of applications:

You can apply to multiple universities and it’s wise to do so to maximize your chances. There’s no official limit (unlike the 5-choice limit on UCAS undergrad), but I believe focusing on 2-5 well-chosen courses is better than spamming 10+ applications. Make sure each application is high quality and tailored .

• Tracking your application:

After submission, you’ll get a confirmation email or login where you can track your application status via an e-portal. Universities may take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months to respond. Some have rolling admissions and will send an offer as soon as a decision is made; others might batch process after a deadline.

Be patient, but if a long time passes beyond the typical response window indicated by the university, you can politely email the admissions office to inquire.

• Interviews (if applicable):

Some people say most taught Master’s programs do not require an interview, but some courses (like an MBA or certain scholarships, or PhD admissions) might request an interview or video call. However, if you’re invited to one, do well to prepare by reviewing your application and being ready to discuss your motivation and background. It’s a good sign it means you’re a strong candidate.

Tip: Throughout the application process, check your email (and spam folder) regularly. Universities may reach out if any document is missing or if they have updates. Respond promptly to any requests to keep your application moving.

Step 5: Explore Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

Studying in the UK can be quite expensive, so it’s crucial to plan how you’ll finance your education. The good news is that there are scholarships and funding opportunities available specifically for international students. Here’s how to maximize your funding chances:

• University scholarships and bursaries:

Many UK universities offer scholarships or tuition discounts for international students. These could be merit-based or country-specific. Once you have offers (or even before, while researching), check the financial aid section of each university’s website. Look for awards like “International Excellence Scholarship” or faculties that have funds for postgraduate students. Deadlines for university scholarships are often early, so keep track (some require you to have an offer in hand by a certain date).

• UK government scholarships:

The UK government runs prestigious scholarship programs for international postgraduates. For example, Chevening Scholarships offer fully funded one-year master’s degrees in the UK (covering tuition, living expenses, and flights) . This is a highly competitive program for future leaders in various fields, and many African countries are eligible.

Another major program is the Commonwealth Scholarships, which fund postgraduate studies for students from Commonwealth countries (which includes many African nations) . These scholarships target talented individuals who have potential to make an impact in their home countries.

GREAT Scholarships is another option (in partnership with UK universities) that offers funding to students from select countries in Africa and Asia, for instance, GREAT scholarships for Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, etc., typically providing £10,000 toward tuition.

• External scholarships and sponsors:

You can also look into scholarships offered by organizations or governments in your home country. Some African governments and banks sponsor students for studies abroad. Additionally, international bodies like the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship or PTDF (for Nigerian oil/gas studies) or the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (available only for certain universities) may be options depending on your background. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) also supports programs like Chevening and Commonwealth shared scholarships.

• Scholarship search databases:

Utilize databases to find scholarships you might qualify for. The British Council’s Study UK website lets you search for scholarships by country and subject . Also, platforms like Scholarships for Development or Opportunity Desk list scholarship opportunities for African students. Always verify any scholarship’s legitimacy and apply by the stated deadline with all required documents (often a separate application with essays or references).

• Budgeting and part-time work:

If scholarships don’t cover everything, plan your budget. As a student visa holder, you can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during term (and full-time on holidays) to help with living costs. However, don’t rely solely on part-time work to fund tuition or major expenses, you must show proof of funds for the visa.

It’s better to secure funding beforehand. That said, a part-time job or graduate assistantship can supplement your experience and income once you’re there.

• Education loans:

If necessary, explore loan options. Some local banks offer student loans for overseas study, or there are international loan providers for students. Be mindful of interest rates and repayment. A scholarship or grant is always preferable to a loan if you can get it.

Tip: Begin scholarship applications early, often around the same time you apply for admission. Many major scholarships (like Chevening) require you to apply almost a year in advance of the course start. Also, note that you usually need at least a conditional offer (or unconditional offer) from a UK university to finalize scholarship awards, so the application steps go hand-in-hand. Stay organized with a calendar for all scholarship deadlines.

Step 6: Accept an Offer and Apply for your UK Student Visa

Congratulations are in order, from here on now after applying, hopefully, you’ll start receiving offer letters. UK universities usually issue two types of offers:

• Conditional Offer: This means you have a place pending meeting certain conditions. Common conditions include achieving a specific final grade if you’re still studying, providing further documents, or meeting an English language requirement. For instance, you might need to send your official degree certificate or an IELTS result. Once you fulfil the conditions, the offer becomes unconditional.

• Unconditional Offer: This means you’ve met all requirements and secured your place. If you receive multiple offers, take time to compare them, consider factors like ranking, course content, location, cost, and funding. You’ll need to accept one offer (and usually decline others) by a deadline. Some universities ask for a tuition deposit to confirm your acceptance (this deposit will later count toward your fees). Pay attention to any deposit requirement and refund policy, as you might need to pay this before they issue your visa documents.

Getting your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

Once you have an unconditional offer and you’ve firmly accepted it, your university will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). The CAS is an electronic document (with a unique reference number) that confirms you have been accepted into a course and is required for your student visa application . The university (which is a licensed student sponsor) typically issues the CAS a few months before your course starts, often after you have met all conditions and paid any necessary deposit. You will receive the CAS number via email, along with details of your course, fees, and a summary of any payments made.

Important: Check the information in your CAS email carefully (name, course title, duration, fees) for any errors. You will need the exact CAS number when filling out your visa application, and you must apply for your visa within 6 months of receiving the CAS .

Applying for the Student Visa

International students (including all African countries) require a Student Visa to study in the UK. Here are the key steps for the visa process:

• When to apply: You can apply for the student visa up to 6 months before your course start date (if applying from outside the UK) . It’s recommended to apply as soon as you have your CAS and required documents ready, since you’ll want to leave ample time for processing and any unforeseen delays. Most visa decisions are made within about 3 weeks if you apply from your home country , but it can take longer during busy periods or if additional checks are needed.

• How to apply: Visa applications are done online on the official UK government website. Start at the official UK Government Student Visa page and follow the instructions. You will create an account, fill in personal and travel details, enter your CAS number, and pay the visa fee (and a healthcare surcharge for the NHS).

• Documents needed for visa: Key documents include:

• CAS (from your university)

• Proof of finances: You must show you have enough money to cover your first year’s tuition (minus any paid deposit or scholarship shown on your CAS) and living expenses for up to 9 months. The UK Government sets a maintenance amount you need per month (e.g. around £1,334 per month in London or £1,023 per month outside London, as of recent guidelines) multiply that by 9 months to get the total required funds . This money needs to have been in your bank account (or your parent’s account) for at least 28 days in a row, evidenced by bank statements or an official bank letter. Alternatively, an official scholarship letter or sponsor letter can satisfy this requirement if it covers the amounts.

• Proof of English proficiency: If your CAS indicates you met the university’s English requirement or if you are from an English-speaking country, you typically won’t need to separately prove it for the visa. Otherwise, you may need to provide your IELTS for UKVI test results or other approved language test certificate .

• Passport (valid) and passport photos: You’ll submit your passport for the visa vignette (sticker) to be placed, so make sure it’s not expiring. You also may need recent passport-sized photographs depending on application center requirements (many now take your photo digitally).

• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate: Applicants from many African countries are required to undergo a TB test at a UK-approved clinic and get a certificate if studying in the UK for more than 6 months. Check the UK government site if your country is on the list where a TB test is needed and obtain the certificate before your visa appointment . (For example, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and many others do require a TB clearance certificate.)

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate (if applicable): If you are going for a postgraduate course in certain sensitive science or engineering fields (like some nuclear physics, biosciences, etc.), and you are a national of a country that requires ATAS, you must apply for an ATAS certificate before your visa. Your university will inform you if this is needed for your course (common for certain MSc/PhD programs). ATAS can take several weeks to be granted, so apply early if required .

• Biometrics and interview: As part of the visa process, you’ll schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre in your country to submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photo). Occasionally, some students might be asked for a short credibility interview (via video link) where an officer asks about your study plans. Don’t be nervous – just answer honestly about why you chose your course and university. This is to ensure you are a genuine student.

• Decision and visa vignette: Once approved, you’ll get a vignette (sticker) in your passport that allows entry to the UK, and you’ll later collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card in the UK. If for any reason your visa is refused, you’ll be given a reason – if this happens, you can correct the issue and reapply or appeal, but let’s hope all goes well the first time by preparing carefully!

Tip: Double-check that the name on your CAS, academic documents, and bank statements match your passport. Discrepancies can raise flags during visa processing. Also, do not book non-refundable flights until you have your visa in hand. While processing is usually quick, delays can occur.

Step 7: Prepare for Departure and Enrollment in the UK

With your visa approved, you’re almost at the finish line! Now it’s time to make practical arrangements for moving to the UK and starting your studies. Here are the final steps:

• Arrange for accommodation: Look into housing options as soon as you have an offer (even before visa). Most universities guarantee accommodation for international postgraduates if you apply by a certain date. University halls of residence are a great way to meet other students and simplify your move. Alternatively, you can rent privately. Many African students in the UK choose to stay in university accommodations at least for the first year for convenience. Whichever you choose, sort it out before you arrive to avoid last-minute stress.

• Book your travel: Book a flight to the UK, aiming to arrive a week or two before your course or orientation begins. This gives you time to settle in. Remember, you can arrive up to one month before your course start date on the student visa (for courses longer than 6 months) . Check baggage allowances you’ll want to bring some essentials but you can buy many things (bedding, kitchenware) after arrival or via the university’s accommodation services.

• Prepare documents to carry: In your hand luggage, keep important documents: your passport with visa, university offer/CAS letter, financial evidence that you used for your visa, and TB certificate if you needed one. Immigration officers at the UK border may ask to see these. Also have your accommodation confirmation easily accessible.

• Arrival in the UK: When you land, follow the signs for International Student check-in if available, or regular immigration. The officer will check your visa and passport, and might ask a couple of questions (carry those documents just in case). After clearing immigration, collect your bags and proceed to your university (many universities run a pick-up service from major airports on certain dates, check if yours does and sign up).

• Collect your BRP and register: If your visa required you to collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) on arrival (check your visa letter), make sure to pick it up within 10 days. Often you can collect it on campus or at a local post office. Your university’s international student support will guide you on this.

• Enroll at university: You’ll need to formally register/enroll with your university in person. During enrollment/orientation week, you’ll show your passport/visa, your original certificates (some universities check your degree certificate or transcripts in person), and complete any remaining paperwork.

After enrollment, you’ll get your student ID card. That means you are now officially a student in the UK.

• Attend orientation and settle in: Take advantage of any induction or open-day programs. There may be sessions for international students to brief you on banking, healthcare (register with a GP, pay any health surcharge if not already), getting a student Oyster card (if in London) or other transport discounts, etc. It’s also a great time to meet fellow students. Many African student associations or international societies might host welcome events join those to find your community abroad.

Tip: The UK may have a different academic culture. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in class, talk to professors during office hours, and seek help from student services if needed. Universities offer support in everything from study skills to mental health and career advice . Embrace the experience, it’s okay to feel culture shock at first, but you’ll find your rhythm soon.

Conclusion:

Applying to UK universities as an international student from Africa is a journey that requires effort and patience, but each step is manageable with the right information and mindset. From researching the perfect course to clicking “submit” on your application, from securing a scholarship to packing your bags you are on your way to an exciting educational adventure.

I hope this step-by-step guide I managed to break down has demystified the process and empowered you to get started. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences/tips, please leave a comment below, let’s help each other out. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with fellow students or prospects who are also hoping to study in the UK.

Your future UK campus life is closer than you think. Good luck with your applications, and who knows soon you might be boarding a flight to the UK, ready to write your own success story. 🇬🇧🎓

I wish you all the best. Cheers.

Sources & Useful Links:

• UCAS – Postgraduate UK: International Students (how to apply and benefits)

• UK Government – Student Visa Requirements and Overview

• British Council Study UK – Scholarships for International Students (Chevening, Commonwealth, etc.)

Some more useful requirements

Affordable Amber Student Accommodation

Opening a UK Bank Account with Revolut

Consider a Cost-effective Train Commute with TrainPal

Source: How to Secure Admission as an International Student in UK Universities.

54 notes View Post

dipstickflopdoodle

2 months ago

Odysseus's fixation upon his son could possibly be explained by the timeline.

A small thing that needs to be said is that according to Homer Odysseus left Telemachus a "newborn" (or at least so Menelaus says in the Odyssey). Interestingly is hard to tell how long Odysseus and Penelope have been married before they had Telemachus because the time line is not cut and clear.

It seems like their marriage took place during the oath of Tyndareus period when Odysseus was at Sparta as a suitor to Helen. From the Oath till Helen's infidelity or abduction or forced seduction by Aphrodite we see there were around 10 years of difference (quite frankly according to some accounts Helen mentions she was 20 years in Troy). That means that he and Penelope were potentially married at least a decade (which makes sense given that he made a wedding bed for her from scratch making it seem that their palace was also being rebuilt at that time)

But if Telemachus was newborn or almost newborn (like let's say about 1 year old tops) that means that Odysseus and Penelope were childless for almost a decade. Either that means they were having some issues aka Odysseus running errands in the kingdom or that they were trying very hard to have children and somehow they couldn't

Do you imagine what this means?

Odysseus potentially had to leave behind a son he wished for for almost a decade full and not to mention that Palamedes nearly killed him, that very son that he potentially tried so hard for and wished for so much!

Hell no wonder he names himself "Father of Telemachus" and quite frankly one can understand why he would hold a grudge against Palamedes (be it Higenius you follow where he frames him or be it Pausanias who says he drowned him) one can imagine why his brain would snap like that! If this hypothesis is correct that is.

2K notes View Post

dipstickflopdoodle

2 years ago

rank the kids from "would destroy the batmobile in less than 10 minutes if left alone" to "Bruce wouldn't notice for 2 weeks if you took it for a joyride"

Canonically can't drive – Cassandra

Can drive but can't operate the controls – Duke

He's 3 feet tall, that's a fender bender waiting to happen – Damian

Promptly returned it because he felt bad – Cullen

She's 13 – Carrie

Failed her driving test so many times the DMV just gave her a license so she'd stop bothering them – Stephanie

Tried to pull a quick one as an only child so as punishment he's no longer an only child – Dick

Could pilot it remotely while borrowing her neighbor's WiFi – Barbara

Made it halfway to Central City before getting a ticket – Harper

Slowly stole the parts and reassembled it somewhere else, waiting for the opportunity to pull up next to Bruce with his second secret Batmobile – Jason

Leaves it where it normally is but gaslights Bruce into thinking it's gone – Tim

17K notes View Post

dipstickflopdoodle

2 months ago

Hey remember that a boycott if actually MORE effective under capitalism if you profess you would actually end the boycott under certain conditions.

“Nothing this company does can make up for their bad actions, I will never buy from them again!” Okay so they’ve lost you as a customer and have no reason to try and get you back. You can HOPE to drive them into bankruptcy but Chic-Fil-A is evidence of how well that works.

“This company did something bad. I would not consider buying their product again, UNLESS, they publicly apologized and made up for it by … [donating money to a cause, promoting different content, offering better care to their employees, etc.]” This is actually MORE likely to be effective because if enough people say this, the company m sees them as potential customers of a certain demographic, and is willing to make changes to get those customers back and, long term, make money from them.

21K notes View Post

dipstickflopdoodle

3 years ago

On White Fear & Creating Diverse Transformative Works

So whenever fandom tries to address the question “Why aren’t there more works featuring characters of color?” there are a myriad of (predictable) responses. One of which is appearing with increasing frequency: “Because we (usually: white creators of transformative works) are afraid of getting it wrong.”

And like. I’ve already addressed how ‘thinking you’ll get it wrong’ is a failure of both imagination and of craft/skill (and a symptom of the racial empathy gap, which I forgot had a proper name when I wrote that post). Meanwhile, @stitchmediamix absolutely accurately pointed out that the ‘fear’ being discussed is fear of being called racist, not necessarily fear of failure.

Now, we could go into the whole absurdity of white fragility here, but google is a thing and “white fragility” is discussed all over the place and I trust ya’ll to do the work if you actually give a shit about this subject… which I assume you do, if you’re reading this – but if you’re just here to find a way to dismiss the issue at hand, I’m gonna save you some time and recommend you scroll past.

Writers can also be fragile, especially in transformative works communities, where “if you don’t have anything nice to say, hit the back button and keep your mouth shut” is the primary expectation wrt feedback, and anything that deviates from that is considered a mortal insult (do you vageublog about my fic, sir?). But if we’re willing to deploy an array of tools to make our writing not-My-Immortal-bad, from spellcheck to wikipedia to in-depth historical research to betas and britpickers and so on, then we should be willing to employ equivalent tools to avoid writing racist stories.

Incidentally, writing stories that erase/ignore extant characters of color, especially if they’re prominent in the source text? is racist. So avoiding writing characters of color altogether is not the solution to making your writing not-racist.

And, okay. I feel it’s important to acknowledge here, as I have before, that the Fear of Fucking Up is a very real fear that genuinely does affect people’s enthusiasm for / likelihood to write, regardless of the validity or fairness of that Fear’s origins, and I’m going to be generous enough to assume that there are some people who are acting in good faith when they say “I want to, but I’m scared.”

So. This is for those who are acting in good faith, from the perspective of a white fan who has written fic about characters of color in several fandoms and never gotten pilloried for it, even when I know for a fact (in retrospect) that I’ve fucked up details.

(oh, side note: I know this is mostly tackling things from a writing perspective, but a lot of this can apply to creating transformative works overall with a few tweaks.)

First: realize that the likelihood of getting called out is actually pretty low. And fans of color aren’t as Mean and Angry and Unfairly Sensitive as some people want us to believe. (Do you vagueblog about That Dumpster Fire Meta, sir? / No, sir, I do not vagueblog about That Meta sir; but I do vagueblog, sir.)

This is not to say that there aren’t people out there who’re more than willing to make a (justified) stink about egregiously racist writing. But it’s actually very rare to get targeted, especially publicly by a large number of unhappy fans. Because you know what? most fans, including fans of color, want to just have fun in fandom as much as anyone else.

It’s just, y’know, a little harder for fans of color to ‘just have fun’ when us white fans are showing our asses with stories involving “Dragon Lady” Elektra or “Angry Black Woman” Sally Donovan or “Spicy Latin Lover” Poe Dameron. And sometimes us white fans only listen to what fans of color are saying when they make a Big Deal out of it.

That’s not a failure of their ability to stay calm. That’s our failure to listen before they get loud and organized. Because I’m willing to bet that people who get called out publicly? got a few polite, private messages about their screwup first, and they doubled down instead of listening.

Also: there is a thing where, no matter how politely they word their critique, fans of color, especially black fans, are more likely to be unjustly perceived as ‘mean’ and ‘angry’ by white fans. Again, that’s our failure, not theirs. Plus, even if they are angry, that doesn’t automatically mean they’re wrong (see: Tone Argument).

Step Two is: pay attention to discussions about racist tropes in fiction. Yes, even when it’s crit of our favorite shows/movies/characters/etc. If you understand the Manic Pixie Dream Girl trope and why it’s harmful, or you understand the Bechdel-Wallace test, or you can have a meaningful discussion about Mary Sues, or you can (justifiably) rail about how Bury Your Gays sucks, then you can develop a similar appreciation for racial biases and stereotypes. And then you can find ways to avoid them.

No, no one’s expecting you to memorize bell hooks so you can write a drabble about Iris West, or demanding you write a dissertation on media stereotypes wrt the simultaneous fetishization and desexualization of Asian women (who aren’t a monolith, either, but Hollywood doesn’t seem to know that) before you’re ‘allowed’ to write Melinda May in a story, but like. Pay attention when people, especially fans of color, are talking about common tropes so that you don’t unthinkingly replicate or perpetuate them in your fic.

Yes, racist writing can involve more than just thoughtless parroting of harmful tropes, but my best guess is, ninety-nine times out of a hundred, fanwork getting ‘called out’ in fandom involves those tropes. So avoiding them takes your chances of getting criticized from ‘low’ to ‘almost nonexistent.’ Less to fear, see?

Step Three is: more research – basically, at least as much as you’d be willing to invest in any equivalent white character. @writingwithcolor is a great blog, and has links to additional resources; . If you’re the type to get a beta or a britpicker, find a sensitivity reader or a beta of the appropriate background. Not all fans of color are willing to do this kind of unpaid labor, just as not all fans are willing to britpick/beta, but they’re out there. Approach them respectfully, and listen to them if they say that something in your story looks off.

It’s worth noting here that writing about characters of color doesn’t need to involve - and in fact, some advice recommends avoiding - telling Special Stories About Racism. Stories about characters of color don’t need to be about slavery or civil rights or the constant parade of microaggressions they have to deal with daily in order to be realistic or compelling (or angsty, for those who love writing angst, as I do). Research can turn up useful information that can inform our choices as writers, but if we don’t share the oppression our characters face, it’s not our job to tell stories specifically about that oppression.

Step Four is: before posting, anticipate the worst. What will you do if someone says you fucked up? If your answer is “argue with them and talk over their concerns,” stop. Remember that you’re not a victim of a ‘mean fan of color,’ but that you’ve probably written something that they consider harmful. Being told that you wrote something racist isn’t an attack on your moral fiber. You’re not an irredeemable monster if you fuck up, but your response to being told you fucked up is far more telling. Acknowledge their concerns, fix the issue if you can, learn from your mistake, and fail better next time.

You cannot improve if you don’t try in the first place. Failure to try is failure, so try your best, and improve incrementally – just as you already do as a writer with any story.

In conclusion: The 4 Steps to Getting Over Yourself as a White Fanfic Writer: (1) recognize that the likelihood of getting called out is pretty low; (2) educate yourself about the most common racist writing issues, so that likelihood will be even lower; (3) do your due diligence when writing; (4) in case of the worst: apologize, fix the issue, learn from the experience, fail better in the future.

(And again, google is your friend – there are a lot of people who’ve written about this subject, like Kayla Ancrum, Morgan Jenkins, the mods at Writing with Color, Thao Le, and Monica Zepeda, among many, many, others. I’m merely sharing my own perspective from what I’ve learned from listening to a lot of smart people, in case it might help some of you – if it doesn’t, keep looking, a ton of great resources are out there.)

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dipstickflopdoodle

2 years ago