
I've been reading a bit of sincere appreciation for fic written in a more 'realistic' mode. Especially as regards Buffy's former lovers and her attitudes towards them. That's all well and good--we need more love and appreciation in the world right?--but I'm detecting a whiff, and this may be my own trembling fear and bias, of snobbery towards folks that write and appreciate something rather more fantastical, or simply something different.
It is entirely possible that Angel's penis is three inches long. Could the rampages and the whoring, before and after turning, be his choice of compensation for a perceived shortfall, rather than learning to be excellent with tongue and fingers? Is the old vamp attracted so much to virginal Buffy, who can't possibly comprehend him, precisely because of her inability to compare him to other men?
It is entirely possible that the wholesome, earnest Iowa farmboy may be just starting out on the kink continuum during his time with Buffy. Caring enough to go for the O, cosmopolitan enough to find the clit, but without seasoning, and Buffy is not exactly the one to help him out regarding other positions and hot spots.
Is it possible, perhaps, to look at Riley-Angel-bashing as satire from folks who simply are not fans? Bushies probably do not appreciate the large ears indulged in by political cartoonists with quite the same joy as blue-staters, yet I haven't seen calls for more accurate portrayal. Granted I'm probably reading in the wrong places.
I guess I'm just a real egalitarian when it comes to kink. I don't believe that any kink is not OK or somehow is an indicator of a small mind, or an over-controlling mother, or, or, OMG an underappreciation of Spike's charms.
Granted that last is a real crime.
Disclaimer: I do not endorse the practice of kinks that victimize others.