heated rivalry mentioned
if we’re being real eastern and western bl authors treat queer identity the exact same way with the difference of cultural influence
i totally agree, but i don't actually read much western BL because i actually really like many other elements of eastern BL. they have very different vibes. but i do find eastern ones tend to fall into this trap more, and i think there's many reasons why that happens. in general, eastern societies are a lot more centered around conformity and privacy, and i think that comes through subconsiously BLs.
im not judging at all or saying that western rep is better - a huge problem i have with western rep for example is that, because it's become more mainstream, it's often becomes sanitized and puritan and i don't feel much connection to it or the characters. (in general, i also prefer illustrated rather than live action, which is why i tend to read a lot of webcomics.)
neither one is better or worse, they are just different and each, originating from different cultures, has different trends, tendencies, and issues. for now though, i just wanted to be directed to some BL that treat queer identity a bit more tangibly. that's all.
trying to cope with hollanov repressing their feelings like dummies T^T
i love BL, but the way many eastern BL authors treat queer identity can get a bit exhausting. maybe it's realistic for men in these countries to not want to name their attraction and avoid it or cope by saying it's "just that person" they feel attraction to, but i'd really love to read something rn where they actually say the word "gay", don't have raging cognitive dissonance when it comes to their attraction and internalized homophonia that is *never* addressed or resolved, and talk seriously about their fears and struggles.
if you have any recs that deal seriously with heavy topics like struggling to come to terms with same-sex attraction, accepting your sexuality, and fear of coming out, etc. please send them my way!