popular m/f or m/m ship (usually white/light-skinned): man grooms, stalks, coerces, literally beats the shit out of their partner
news, critics, and fans: the popularity of this ship reflects a transgressive counter culture in which women and queer people use fiction as a safe space to explore dark desires 😍. the creators have invented a fascinating, twisted, and thrilling dynamic between these two characters, layered with history and gothic symbolism. a true interrogation of patriarchy
f/f ship, interracial ship: [displays any slightly twisted or unequal elements to their dynamic]
news, critics, and fans: um... idk this is just problematic. the creators really fucked up here. these characters are so unlikable and two-dimensional. women deserve better than this. and anyway, why does every show have to have romance these days? the desire to force romance onto shows reflects the myopia and anti-intellectualism of modern television watching
popular m/m ship: the guys get along really well and are twee, funny, and charming, or their relationship is built on quiet insight and respect
news, critics, and fans: the virality of this show speaks to what women truly want in a relationship: EQUALITY! these characters really work hard to earn their level playing ground, and it's so beautiful to see
f/f ship or interracial ship: [does the same thing]
news, critics, and fans: this is so lacking in imagination, so boring and dull. news flash! i don't want my characters to talk in therapy speak. i want my gay characters fucked up insane and cringe!! i'm so sick of flawless characters that are nothing like real life. these writers need to go outside and touch grass