More Thoughts On Screen

[The relevant quote can be found on 'Words' in the Words section.]

It's funny really, because Channel 4 [in the UK] had given me the impression that all there was to gay culture was sex and drugs - and I had this idea from the age of 14 or something, when I first saw a series of queer progs. (I never thought I could be influenced by TV, but of course, everyone can - if it's your only source, you usually trust it). And fair enough, not that I really know much, but I don't think the impression I got was altogether false, was it?

"Sex, drugs, and what the hell is monogamy?"

It's not really the whole truth though I don't think. I mean, I'm not the only gay guy who thinks relationships are an 'OK' idea - there's Paul aswell!! :-) And just take the two gay businessmen who've just adopted - they're obviously in love, and good luck to them. My point is that there's probably more sides to gay culture than first meets the eye, and I'm glad that it's not all sex and drugs. Because I'm kinda looking for someone to hold. But everyone has there own agenda in life anyway, despite sexual orientation.

But back to Channel 4. I'm not critical of them, in fact, I think it's the greatest TV channel in the world... ever! And afterall, it did give me the vital 'queer input' (which I've talked about before) because really, it's what I needed at that age. It helped me to understand more what the hell being gay was actually about. So thanx Channel 4! And thanx Paul!

And another thing, C4, more queer oriented programs wouldn't go a miss... :-) Don't underestimate their value. The influence they have on society is a positive one, and it helps boost understanding and acceptance. What's more, gay kids can get that crucial insight which school education will never proivide...

[This article refers to this site's predecessor, Graham: Speaking Out, which hosted pictures of cute guys.]

Maybe this site, in some respects, conveys the wrong impression. Throughout these pages, I have pictures of really cute guys - from my point of view at least. But please take it lightly, it's not a statement...

Tell me this - how important is beauty? Well, in my opinion, it counts for not a lot when it comes down to it. And I admit, this is sounding cliched, but please bear with me while I get this point accross. So why the pics? Well, everyone likes looking at people they would regard as good looking, however everyone has their own taste, their own ideals. I don't believe there is such a thing as perfection though, and you're very unlikely to ever meet anyone who matches every one of your ideals. But wait, before you think I'm just cynical, don't you think it's a good thing - no perfection I mean? Everyone who is hell-bent on acheiving it, or finding it, would suddenly be given the biggest excuse to spend their life doing so - seeking perfection - without ever realising what they've got.

Perfection, ultimate beauty, the in-every-way ideal partner is an unachievable goal. Progress, and advancement (towards such a goal?) is a good thing, if kept in perspective.

I think I should get back to the point. Beauty is the least important of the ideals, it's only skin deep. There are people out there who will love you, and be attracted to you, just because of the person you are.

So, in a sense, the pics are a design effect, just a design effect, to be appreciated, or whatever.

You don't have to be 'beautiful'. You don't have to be 'perfect'.

You look good as you are.