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There's been a lot of discussion about the fathering of Sam and Dean recently. Is John a villain? Is John a misunderstood sweetheart? In the midst of discussing various takes on John Winchester, there has been a lot of criticism levelled at people with a strong opinion on one side or the other. So here's what I'd like to know.
If I criticize a character's choices, is that inherently offensive?
I think of J. Winchester as a pretty lousy parent, but a lovable man. He isn't the worst parent in the history of human kind, and he has reason for a lot of his choices, so I feel like I sort of undertand and like him. I still feel sorry for his kids, though. I really hope he and Sam and Dean work out their conflicts, but I am so glad I don't have my father shouting orders at me like Sam and Dean do.
Because that would suck, especially when I was worried and angry and sad and needed some parental love.
ETA: Basically I’m feeling my way into writing him, and I’m eager to discuss him from a number of points of view. However, I don’t want to tap into anyone’s cranky hot spots and start another fandom rrrarrrgh-fest.
If I criticize a character's choices, is that inherently offensive?
I think of J. Winchester as a pretty lousy parent, but a lovable man. He isn't the worst parent in the history of human kind, and he has reason for a lot of his choices, so I feel like I sort of undertand and like him. I still feel sorry for his kids, though. I really hope he and Sam and Dean work out their conflicts, but I am so glad I don't have my father shouting orders at me like Sam and Dean do.
Because that would suck, especially when I was worried and angry and sad and needed some parental love.
ETA: Basically I’m feeling my way into writing him, and I’m eager to discuss him from a number of points of view. However, I don’t want to tap into anyone’s cranky hot spots and start another fandom rrrarrrgh-fest.
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