a few links, a few thoughts

[kaigou]

First, go read these:

Part 1: Romance Novels & The Legitimacy of Criticism, from manifesta:

The unconditional feminist criticism of romance novels is backlash against what some feminists see as the perpetuation of heterosexual, monogamous, frequently white gender roles. The empowering aspects of romance novels are eclipsed in the rush to generalize. Is this quality of unconditional criticism justified? No. Is it understandable that feminist critics have reacted out of a similar hurt and rage as romance writers and readers when they feel that women--because that is who and what it boils down to--are being threatened, dismissed, or silenced? Yes. There are very real feelings on either side, feelings that can lead to blanket statements and end up pitting women against women.

Also, for those of you into steampunk, an opening assay from branchandroot on Steampanku vs Victorientalism:

what I'm thinking of is more along the lines of what one useful author has dubbed steampanku: a re-imagining of Japanese history, especially late Edo and Meiji, with the addition of 'steam' and clockwork based technologies. See also, Samurai Seven, only a good deal more optimistic and less constrained by the urge to Extreme Pathos. More cheerful erasure of gender inequality as per speculative fiction that wants to make a point. Steam mecha.

Hmm. Last Exile? ...which leads into starlady's panel notes from Wiscon, The Politics of Steampunk.