From: Stefan B
This photo is a simulated double exposure, which allows it to show a
contrast between the two sides. On the right, the model is standing in
a fighting stance, holding a knife, and lit by high-contrast light that
obscures half the face. This makes the figure menacing and mysterious.
On the other side, the model is sitting, fetal-position, head down, as
though hiding from the bright lighting shining on him, and afraid of
something. Additionally, the background is dark, which gives it an
overall dark mood. The contrast between the two sides shows (right) how
boys are expected to be tough, and strong, and the absence of any other
people emphasizes that they are expected to be independent, too.
Consequently, (left,) they can be left isolated, afraid of the
consequences of being more open and receiving help from others. People
closely watch boys for how well they play into the stereotypes for men.
If they do not adhere to the gender script closely enough, they are
often ostracized, and even actively berated. For most of them, they end
up doing the best they can to keep whatever they feel hidden.
In the title, "fear" refers to the fear that keeps people in compliance
with social norms; "loathing" refers to what they get if they don't
comply with social norms.
2 comments:
I think Stefan’s picture is really cool. He uses a lot of creative elements with the darkness and lightness of the photograph and also with the body language displayed. I think it’s great how he uses the darkness to show that not everyone wants to have the tough guy persona but they can’t express that so they need to hide their true feelings in the dark. His body is completely centered inward, which shows a sad element. The lightness of the photograph shines on what society expects a true man to be. He portrays that boys need to act a certain way in order to be respected by the male community, and if they do not comply then they will be tortured and ridiculed in various ways either by emotional or physical bullying. The concept that Stefan is trying to portray is not strictly for boys trying to be perceived as masculine or “tough”, but it also applies for every person who is being stereotyped to fit into a specific mold. Once a person has been stereotyped that person feels like they need to live up to the standards that others expect of them.
What a great creative way to show how social norms have consequences if not followed properly. This photo really shows how men have to portray this strong persona to be seen a s a real man and how they are not suppose to show any feelings toward others. There are bad consequences that come from not having the strong persona and can really make a man persecuted in front of his peers. Also, there are consequnses to being too manly in that they act to violently and then really harm others. Men have to keep a balance of there script that they must follow in order not to be persecuted by others in life.
Post a Comment