The royal we—who knew it actually had a royal history? I had only heard it used in reference to couples who, upon coupling, start using “we” instead of “I” when referring to themselves. Suddenly, “I saw the movie” becomes “We saw the movie,” “I love museums” becomes “We love museums,” and so on. However, as it turns out, the royal we actually has monarchical origins. Originally, this phenomenon referred to the switching of “we” for “I’ by a monarch or person in power. According to Robert Hodge in Literature as Discourse, the use of the royal we can both signify one’s power and the transcendence of one’s own individuality.
In my opinion, this use of “we” can be manipulative. It pulls in other people who may or may not agree with the statement. Maybe someone’s partner doesn’t actually love museums or maybe a member of a society does not agree with a monarch’s actions, but they are implicated nonetheless. From now on, when I refer to the royal we I am referring to this very action—the use of “we” to pull others into and implicate them in another individual’s experience or opinion.
This “we” pops up in cultural criticism. Both Hilton Als in “‘Moonlight’ Undoes our Expectations” and Clive James in “Thrones of Blood” invoke this powerful and transcendent we. However, they each do so in very different terms to, I will argue, very different effects. Als uses “we” sparingly and startlingly, while James uses we as a workhorse pronoun, popping it into sentences time and again.
From afar, these two pieces share many similarities. Both of these pieces examine video works—Als focuses on the movie “Moonlight” and James critiques the television series “Game of Thrones.” Each critic explicitly incorporates their individual stories and perspective. Both works also like the works they are reviewing, ultimately putting them forth as worthy of the reader’s time.
And yet, their use of a single pronoun sets them apart.
In ‘Moonlight’ Undoes our Expectations,” Als takes the viewer through “Moonlight”’s exploration of black queerness, which taps into Als own experiences and also, in Als’s own words, “avoid[s] the overblown cliches so often used to represent black American life in film.” From beginning to end, Als guides us through the plot of the movie, peppering in “zoom outs” that incorporate context (like the director Barry Jenkin’s possible cinema influences), audience reactions to the film (like when utterance of “faggot” caused the audience to freeze), and personal information (like “every queer kid’s revenge fantasy”). Als manages to tell the story of “Moonlight” as a film that, on the surface, traces the evolution of a young queer black man, but, going deeper, does something radically new. It’s honest—Als shows us this.
Within Als’s sea of prose, “we” pops up sparingly. And, when it does, it is shocking. It reminds me of the first time Frank Underwood looks the viewer in the eye in “House of Cards,” implicating us in the world of Underwood, when Fleabag winks at the viewer in “Fleabag,” pulling us into a deceptively amiable friendship, or when Elliot asks if we can see what he is seeing in “Mr. Robot.” When Als writes it for the first time, it caught me off guard. In the middle of a sentence, he sneaks it in: “…we can’t help thinking…” It stopped me in my tracks—he sees me? He is welcoming me into his experience? It was shocking, yet warm. It asked me to take part. And later, when he says “…we wince…” it was like we are sitting in the screening room together. I could feel the wince, the cascading tightening sensation rolling from my eyes to my toes, as if someone had just poured ice water over my head.
Als uses the we, not coercively, but as a way to welcome the reader to sit beside him in the theater. He does not tell me what my judgments are, but what experience the movie offers.
I believe James thinks he is offering a similar gesture with his use of we. I should disclose, that unlike “Moonlight,” I have seen the work that James reviews. I am a former “Game of Thrones” enthusiast who has since grown thoroughly weary and, at times, incredibly angry with the show. I assume that this is part of the reason why James’s review irks me so much. And yet, his use of “we” keeps me from being even just pleasantly indifferent to the article.
His lengthy recap of “Game of Thrones” begins from a very touching place. James has leukemia, which has left him without “a chance,” but also without “an end date, either.” This illness has left him with downtime during which he, and sometimes he and his daughter, watch television series. It is such a touching way to frame the piece that it leaves me feeling guilty for not liking the article.
From afar, “Thrones of Blood” walks us through the series, gives us in depth introductions to several characters, traces plotlines, pinpoints artistic choices, and relates the series to a broader cinematic tradition. James uses his initial reluctance to watch the show as a way into the series. It’s clear that James then wrestles with his love of the show because he must walk us through every facet of his experience. James attempts to do too much in this article, it’s an exhaustive autopsy of the show, not a meaningful snapshot of it.
Throughout his tome, James implicates the reader time and again through the royal we and “us.” For instance, his reference to how “we click on Play All” (an option I’ve never heard of as I’m more accustomed to “Play Next” after each episode, but this a superficial infraction) trips me up, but not for long. Later, when he writes, “We felt shock when Ned Stark was decapitated, and when Tywin Lannister was killed,” I wholeheartedly agreed. I remember the swift head jerk and eye-widening these moments caused me. However, it is the barrage the sheer quantity of other we’s in the article, like “we, too” would make similar acting choices as Kit Harington, we depend on Ned Stark, “we” could not stop watching the show (an implication I strongly disagree with), “the dramatis personae contain plenty of characters we wouldn’t have minded seeing the back of,” and, in a twist of structure, “Tyrion Lannister is us,” that get exhausting.
Now, someone who loves “Game of Thrones” and strongly identifies with Tyrion Lannister may find great solace in James’s review. I, however, did not. Through his use of we and us, James implied that his observations and his opinions of the show were somehow mine too. In a show that struggles with gender, James assumes that his experience of watching a bevy of naked women was the same as my own. (After having watched the show with several men and women, I can say for certain that this is in no way guaranteed.) James’s use of we does not invite me to an experience like Als’s does, but tells me that an experience I do not recognize is my own. As an ardent contrarian, I cannot help but pull away.
Perhaps, this juxtaposition is entirely dependent on the fact that I do not like “Game of Thrones” and have not seen “Moonlight.” I am reluctant to concede this point entirely, however. Instead, I think that the fact I have seen “Game of Thrones” gives me insight into the foibles of the royal we. When it is invoked so many times, I pull back—that’s not what I think or see or feel.
When used sparingly, however, I welcomed Als use of “we” because it invited me to take a seat at the movie theater and imagine what viewing the movie could be like. Even if I had seen the movie, I think that Als’s review would maintain its friendliness by not assuming, time and again, that we have the same conclusions about the film. Again, Als does not tell me what my judgements would be, but rather what my experience could be. In comparison, James implicates me, the reader, in his own conclusions.
It seems that in both television shows and cultural criticism the use of a transcendent “we”—a “we” that forcibly implicates the viewer—is cropping up. It can be exciting to watch the fourth wall crumble and to feel welcomed into a character’s or writer’s experience. But this strategy must be used sparingly. Just as Frank Underwood does not turn to the camera after every major plot point nor should the critic call the viewer out after every observation. Pulling the reader into an experience repeatedly can get exhausting; there needs to be a balance between surrender and activation. I say, let me watch, let me wade into the critique a bit, let me find my footing in the universe you are describing, and then extend a hand asking me to sink a bit deeper. The power of the royal we demands respect, it is potent and, therefore, should be used sparingly.
The royal we brings up crucial questions in the field of criticism: how can critics draw the reader in without speaking for them? How can critics speak with conviction, but still remain aware that their opinion is not the end-all-be-all? And, finally, is there even room for these questions in criticism? Critics are not monarchs, nor are they our romantic partners. In the end, the royal we leaves me wondering: how can we define the relationship between critic and reader?
2,188 Comments
Amazing! I like this post. Thanks for sharing such an amazing and helpful post!
Immigration Fraud Lawyer
Great selection of title and the words chosen to write this post. Keep posting more informative blogs. Immigration Fraud Lawyer
Infused with the benefits of hemp and female to male massage at homecoconut oil, Coconu Hemp Infused Body Oil will soothe your sore muscles, nourish your skin, ease tension and increase sensation.
Thank you for your wonderful comment! Your support and engagement mean the world to me.
Declaracion de Patrimonio Neto Nueva York Divorcio
Estipulación del Acuerdo Divorcio Nueva York
El Gouna City Tour
What’s up, of course this article is really pleasant and
I have learned lot of things from it concerning blogging.
thanks. 스포츠토토
Incredible points. Sound arguments. Keep up the great effort. 스포츠중계
This is a topic which is near to my heart… Cheers!
Exactly where are your contact details though? 토토
Great post! I really enjoyed reading your insights and the way you presented your ideas was clear and engaging. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and perspective with us.
ruby on rails course
Way cool! Some very valid points! I appreciate you writing this
write-up and also the rest of the site is very good. 슬롯머신
El Gouna City Tour
El Gouna is a stunning city located along the Red Sea coast of Egypt. If you’re looking for an unforgettable entertainment tour, the El Gouna City Tour is a must-visit.
Amazing, Your blogs are really good and informative. I got a lots of useful information in your blogs. Als takes the viewer through “Moonlight”’s exploration of black queerness, which taps into Als own experiences and also, in Als’s own words, motorcycle accident attorney near me, It is very great and useful to all. Keeps sharing more useful blogs..
I’m sorry, but your request is very vague, and I don’t have any specific information about a situation in the fall of 2016 without more context. Could you please provide more details or clarify your request? This will help me generate a more relevant and helpful four-line review for you.
Gracias por dedicar la oportunidad de discutir esto; Estoy muy interesado en aprender más sobre esto. ¿Estaría dispuesto a actualizar su blog con nueva información si es posible, como por ejemplo adquirir conocimientos? Es bastante beneficioso para mí. Abogado de Delitos Sexuales Northern de Virginia
Thank you for providing Valuable information. I truly enjoyed all of the articles on this page, and I hope you keep going to have similar items to share with everyone. Fairfax Grounds for Divorce Lawyer
Here I drop you a line to let you know that I find your blog informative and engaging. Thank you for sharing your insights with us
bankruptcy lawyer va
Friday Night Funkin game is a very interesting music game with unique music, graphics and gameplay. It requires players to have high reflex speed and concentration to defeat the characters in the game. Besides, the game also has many unique and interesting remix tracks. In short, Friday Night Funkin is a game worth trying and playing.
Fue agradable leer el artículo de tu blog. Agradezco su tiempo y trabajo en la investigación y provisión del material. Abogado de Defensa Criminal Federal de Fairfax VA
Your expertise in the field of divorce law is truly impressive. I’ve been going through a challenging divorce process, and your blog has been a valuable resource. Your articles are not only informative but also very compassionate. It’s evident that you genuinely care about helping people through these tough times. I appreciate the insights you share and the guidance you offer. It’s reassuring to know that there are professionals like you who are committed to making this process smoother and less daunting. Thank you for the valuable information you provide. I look forward to reading more of your posts and hopefully working with you in the future. Feel free to modify it to suit the specific content of the blog you’re commenting on or to add any personal touches that make it more genuine. Divorce Lawyer in Fairfax VA.
Perfect work you have done, this site is really cool with excellent information. Full Service Farnham
Traveling is one of the best ways to release stress because it takes you away from your problems, both mentally and physically. In fact, just planning a vacation can help take your mind off issues that cause anxiety and tension.
I read this article because of the Game of Thrones picture included in the post. Interesting to read the entire post. Keep posting more good blogs. Divorce Lawyer Fairfax VA
Travel insurance is coverage designed to protect against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling.
Your blog is fantastic, and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and thank you for your hard work.
This is really interesting, You are a very skilled blogger.
I’ve joined your feed and look forward to seeking more of your great post.
Also, I’ve shared your web site in my social networks!
스포츠토토
Many thanks for taking the time to comment on my blog post. Your insightful feedback and constructive criticism are greatly appreciated.
What are The Grounds for Divorce in New York State
Best SEO Company in India
Prometheas Technologies excels as a top SEO company, offering lasting benefits by enhancing website traffic quality and quantity. Our client-centric approach provides tailored on-page and off-page SEO solutions, boosting search engine visibility globally. With a strategic procedure, we achieve high rankings and increased appearance on major search engines. Partner with us to unlock the full potential of your online presence and reap the rewards of effective SEO practices. Visit- https://prometheastech.com , mail us for a FREE CONSULTATION- hello@prometheastech.com
Thank you for sharing this insightful information about Fairfax Divorce Lawyer and the legal process. It’s great to know that there are professionals like you in Fairfax who can help individuals navigate these challenging times with care and expertise. Your expertise is invaluable to the community.
I will really appreciate the writer’s choice for choosing this excellent article appropriate to my matter.Abogado de Fraude por Contrato del Gobierno
I was looking for another article by chance and found your article majorsite I am writing on this topic, so I think it will help a lot. I leave my blog address below. Please visit once.
Arbitraje del Disputas de ContratoThe use of “we” as a linguistic tool can be potentially manipulative, as demonstrated by the example of a partner’s disapproval of museums or a society member disagreeing with a monarch’s actions. The term “royal we” is used to describe this linguistic action, which involves implicating others in an individual’s experience or opinion. This critique encourages readers to be aware of the manipulative nature of language and its impact on shared perceptions. It is suggested to explore instances where the “royal we” is commonly used to provide a more comprehensive understanding. Additionally, considering counterarguments or instances where the use of “we” might be inclusive could add balance to the perspective. The statement is concise and clear, but it is suggested to expand on how individuals can navigate situations where they feel implicated by the “royal we.” The exploration of language and its nuances provides a valuable lens for analyzing communication dynamics.
Your expertise shines in your blog posts, especially the recent one on Fairfax Virginia Criminal Lawyer. As a resident in Fairfax, VA, your insights are incredibly relevant. The way you break down legal complexities is commendable. Your blog is a go-to source for anyone seeking clarity on criminal law matters in our community. Keep up the excellent work!
Tiger Exchange offers a dynamic platform for sports betting enthusiasts. With a user-friendly interface, it provides a seamless experience for wagering on various sports events and engaging in thrilling betting games. Tiger Exchange’s innovative features and secure transactions make it a preferred choice for those seeking an immersive betting experience. Start betting on Tiger Exchange and get login’s from us.
“Your eloquent writing skillfully conveys your beliefs, leaving the world eager for more passionate voices. Always have faith in your instincts.” Accidentes de Camiones
Fairfax Divorce Lawyer is truly exceptional. Their professionalism and expertise shine through in every case. With compassionate guidance, they make a challenging process smoother. Trustworthy and reliable, they navigate divorce proceedings with skill and care. A top choice for legal support in Fairfax.
During your red sea happy tour reisen, you can expect to visit some of the most iconic sites in Luxor, such as the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Luxor Temple. You will have the opportunity to learn about the captivating history of each location from your expert guide. Additionally, you can indulge in the breathtaking views of the Nile River and the stunning landscapes surrounding the city.
Playing online games and playing correctly requires cosmetics and constant practice. Every time you play a game or make a move, you should view losing as a learning experience and improve your skills. However, you shouldn’t increase your risk in playing online games by sticking to big bets. Too much or the amount of money สล็อต เว็บตรงไม่ผ่านเอเย่นต์ ไม่มี ขั้น ต่ํา วอ เลท that should be used to play the game
Hello ! I am the one who writes posts on these topics bitcoincasino I would like to write an article based on your article. When can I ask for a review?
I was looking for another article by chance and found your article safetoto I am writing on this topic, so I think it will help a lot. I leave my blog address below. Please visit once.
It’s the same topic , but I was quite surprised to see the opinions I didn’t think of. My blog also has articles on these topics, so I look forward to your visit. totosite
Why couldn’t I have the same or similar opinions as you? T^T I hope you also visit my blog and give us a good opinion. baccarat online
Great content for the readers. Outstanding narration of title. Expecting more good blogs. Fairfax Divorce Lawyer
Happy Tours Hurghada If you’re planning a trip to Hurghada and looking for the best tour agency in town, look no further than Happy Tours Hurghada. With their unbeatable prices, a wide range of exciting tours, and excellent customer reviews, they are the go-to choice for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences in Egypt.
The variety of table games at 12Bet is really something and it is constantly expanding to offer a more diverse range of games to cater all the users’ preferences
For more information, you can reach out to12betvegas@gmail.com or visit: http://12bet.vegas/
Thank you for taking the time to visit our blog, engage with our content, and be a part of our online community.
Verified Answer Divorce New York
Hello, this weekend is good for me, since this time i am reading this enormous informative article here at my home. KK8
Health insurance is an agreement in which an insurance company agrees to pay for some or all of your medical expenses in exchange for an annually premium payment. https://cutt.ly/HwUvhJbQ
Finance plays a crucial role in the tourism industry as it involves the management and allocation of financial resources to ensure the sustainability and growth of the industry. Asuransi Perjalanan AXA
AXA Travel insurance is a type of insurance covering financial losses associated with traveling, and it can be useful protection for domestic or international travel.
What is the historical origin of the term “royal we,” and how does Julia Poppy reinterpret its meaning in the context of cultural criticism? Tel U
Good informative post. Thanks for sharing this wonderful post. Keep sharing more blogs like this. Keep updating us by sharing more technical informative blogs.filing chapter 7 bankruptcy in virginia