neopronoun with a nod to folklore

Sandra Almird

2 min read

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02-01-2025

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Neopronouns, a relatively new phenomenon in the LGBTQ+ community, are self-selected pronouns that go beyond the traditional "he/him," "she/her," and "they/them." Increasingly, individuals are creating pronouns that reflect their personal identities, and folklore offers a rich tapestry of inspiration. This article explores the fascinating intersection of neopronouns and folklore, drawing upon examples and insights from the crossword puzzle community, specifically CrosswordFiend (though I'll be expanding on their ideas significantly). While CrosswordFiend itself doesn't explicitly cover this topic, we can draw inspiration from their existing questions and answers concerning pronouns and language evolution to build this analysis.

What inspires the creation of folklore-based neopronouns?

The appeal of using folklore-inspired neopronouns likely stems from several factors:

• A deeper connection to identity: Folklore often speaks to deep-seated cultural values and beliefs. Choosing pronouns rooted in these stories can be a powerful way to express a complex and nuanced sense of self. For example, someone might choose pronouns connected to a specific mythical creature or character that resonates with their personality or lived experiences.
• Reclaiming narratives: Folklore is often filled with marginalized figures and stories that have been historically suppressed. Using neopronouns inspired by these figures can be an act of reclaiming agency and challenging dominant narratives. Think of a character historically viewed as weak or evil; reappropriating their essence as a pronoun could be a statement of empowerment.
• Creating a unique identity: In a world increasingly driven by conformity, choosing unique neopronouns allows individuals to stand out and express their individuality in a bold and meaningful way.

Examples of Potential Folklore-Inspired Neopronouns (Hypothetical):

Let's brainstorm some possibilities, drawing parallels from well-known folkloric elements. We'll focus on creating sets, as pronouns usually come in sets (subject, object, possessive, reflexive):

• Based on the "Green Man" archetype: (This archetype represents nature's rebirth and cycles)

  • Subject: Greenself/Greens
  • Object: Greenone/Greem
  • Possessive: Green's/Greens'
  • Reflexive: Greenself

• Inspired by Sirens: (Mythological creatures known for their enchanting songs)

  • Subject: Siren/Sirens
  • Object: Siren/Sirens
  • Possessive: Siren's/Sirens'
  • Reflexive: Sirenself/Sirenselves

• Inspired by a trickster figure like Loki: (Known for cunning and shapeshifting)

  • Subject: Lok/Loki
  • Object: Lok/Loki
  • Possessive: Lok's/Loki's
  • Reflexive: Lokself/Lokisself

Important Considerations:

• Respect and Consent: It's crucial to remember that neopronouns are deeply personal. Always ask someone what pronouns they prefer and respect their choice, even if you don't fully understand.
• Education and Awareness: The use of neopronouns is still relatively new, leading to some confusion and misunderstanding. Educating yourself and others about different neopronouns is crucial for creating a more inclusive and supportive environment.
• Accessibility: When designing neopronouns, consider accessibility. Are they easy to pronounce and remember? Could they be potentially misinterpreted? Clear and easily understood pronouns are key for smooth communication.

Conclusion:

The intersection of neopronouns and folklore offers a powerful and creative way for individuals to express their identities. By understanding the motivations behind the creation of these pronouns, and fostering a culture of respect and understanding, we can create a more inclusive and welcoming world for everyone. Further research into this fascinating topic could involve analyzing existing online communities where users explore and share their neopronoun choices and the reasoning behind them. This would add even greater depth to our understanding of this evolving aspect of linguistic identity. Let's continue the conversation and celebrate the rich diversity of human expression.