Summary of Key Points
This article discusses two main topics: first, it criticizes the cultural phenomenon of "effeminate male performances," arguing that they reflect a pathological market demand and potential dangers in social trends. It uses historical examples to warn that such poor aesthetic choices can lead to a series of negative consequences; second, it comments on Huawei's "Bamboo Cicada" incident, suggesting that companies should respond to public opinion in a more open and humorous manner, emphasizing that the cultural industry should return to healthy aesthetics, as ultimately, products and customers are what determine success.
Detailed Analysis
1. Effeminate Performances: A Business of Seeking Attention Through Obscurity
Have you ever seen male performers wearing makeup and performing with exaggerated movements? The author calls this "observing ugliness," suggesting it's similar to the fascination some people have with teacup dogs (with congenital deformities) or ear-tipped cats (with genetic disorders)—not out of genuine love, but as a way to satisfy curiosity. Why does such content have appeal? On one hand, some people seek thrills when they feel suppressed; on the other hand, businesses aim to make quick profits by attracting attention and selling tickets. However, the author compares this to forcing students into certain roles (a similar form of manipulation), noting that true beauty should reflect health and vitality (for example, K-pop groups are known for their attractive appearance and figures). Effeminate performances, on the other hand, deliberately defy common sense, using strangeness as a selling point.
2. The Danger of Distorted Aesthetics
The author draws on an ancient story: King Zhou of China used ivory chopsticks, which led to a chain of excessive luxuries (jade cups, delicacies, and extravagant living), ultimately leading to the downfall of his dynasty. Today, if more men start to associate effeminacy with fame and fortune, social trends will also be skewed. Historically, dynasties that indulged in pederasty (such as ancient Greece and Rome) did not fare well, as such perverse aesthetics distorted societal values—no one wanted to be a tough, strong man; instead, everyone focused on seeking attention for novelty, leaving no one to get meaningful work done.
3. Huawei's "Bamboo Cicada" Incident: Responding to Public Opinion with Humor
Huawei recently faced criticism over its "Bamboo Cicada" nickname created by netizens. The author believes this reflects a change in the company's attitude towards public opinion. Most internet memes are not malicious; for instance, nicknames like "Far-Ahead Leader" or "Big Mouth" (referring to CEO Yu Chengdong) were initially used jokingly but later became part of Huawei's branding. The author suggests that Huawei should embrace these memes positively, such as by having Yu Chengdong buy one million bamboo cicadas and give them away to customers at events, turning negative attention into positive interaction—this would be much more effective than spending on expensive advertising.
4. The "Fast Money Trap" in the Cultural Industry
The author contrasts this with the popular "tough guy shows" by the Hong Kong military, where strong, muscular soldiers performed, appealing to local residents. This shows that audiences prefer healthy and positive content. However, many in the cultural industry lack quality content and resort to "obscurity" to make money (e.g., having disabled performers do stunts or staging effeminate performances). The author warns that this approach is unsustainable; once audiences see through the gimmicks, these practices will be abandoned.
5. The Boundary Between Consumption and Aesthetics
The author does not oppose legitimate consumption, such as wealthy people buying luxury goods, which can boost the economy. However, pathological aesthetics are different; they represent a distorted desire for novelty rather than genuine emotional value. He emphasizes that if a society's aesthetics lean towards effeminacy or perversity, it is dangerous. The cultural industry should provide content that brings joy and fulfillment to audiences, not rely on shocking or bizarre tactics to make money. Ultimately, products (like Huawei's phones) and customers are what determine success, not misleading memes or aesthetics.
Conclusion
In essence, this article argues that the cultural industry must maintain high standards of aesthetics and avoid shortcuts for quick profits. Companies should respond to public opinion with flexibility, and societal trends should be supported by healthy aesthetics. In simple terms: avoid bizarre antics and focus on creating quality content and products.