After the Fact: Get a Life!

[@DRWolf001]

Glad to see such a well thought out discussion so soon after the episode's release Silver. I know it doesn't happen often, and I can certainly understand why given how much effort you put into these projects, but I greatly appreciate the end result every time. Because as always, you tend to give me something to think about for the rest of the day :)

[@markstunes]

He really does, he always illuminates things I never thought about during the episode and then translate them into ways i can use them in real life. An approach I very much enjoy.

[@Nephalem2002]

I wish Thespio a happy marriage

[@v-r-gmorningmoon6733]

DRWolf001 may the tides of friendship and the pursuit of mastery live long in a show we all know and love. Also, loved the video once again! Hope to see more better then even this!

[@mrdzentertainment1062]

DRWolf001 agreed... And in the immortal words of Pinkie Pie... He makes them fun...

[@jademuseplays]

From you and Silver, I have taken those words of advice and what I have learned from the show into my public and personal life. I am now more confident and prideful in being a brony. I have crafted and hope to publish several theories on the show and its episodes. And, I have started going to conventions to meet and socialize with people who can respect me and see past the normal stereotypical view of an autistic person. This fandom has lead me to interact on Twitter and support the #BlissSentry ship that Silver started at my first con at CMPC17. I got to meet in person the talented minds of this and other reviews, including you and Silver, and interact in a positive enviroment. I have made and hope to publish my own song parody. I have learned to treat others equally and without insensitive comments so that even others with mental disabilities can see themselves as an equal in society. No matter how others complain about the fandom, I will always be loyal to who I have met and what it has done for me. And I hope to be able to make it to EFNW18 in order to share my ideas and talents with the people I have aligned with.

[@Arkus]

Huh I didn't notice that Fluttershy fan getting discouraged by the "Glass-Half-Full" pony. Guess it goes to show how easily the nicer fans get overshadowed by the vocal negative ones.

[@naps153]

Yeah sometimes it's really hard to voice an unpopular opinion in a fandom. For example, I really do like Spike as a character and even though some of his episodes are hard to watch, he's had a lot of growth and isn't just the "sidekick" of the main cast anymore. But because a lot of fans dislike him, or act as though every single spike episode is a waste of time, I tend to keep my opinion to myself and take on a "main pony" team to fit in better.

[@jademuseplays]

Arkus exactly Why I am becoming more vocal. Twitter set up, theories crafting, outward speaking. Because of this fandom, I have found friends that ignore my autism and my lack of deep social skills.

[@kamikeserpentail3778]

Same. I'd say that's true.

[@dhawthorne1634]

Give everyone a bullhorn and the kind, polite, well spoken people aren't going to be the ones to use them.

[@mrdzentertainment1062]

D Hawthorne exactly... Usually the loud, obnoxious know it almost are the ones wasting them...

[@ten-fandoms-in-a-trenchcoat]

I understand why you think Starlight is resenting the fans' opinions, Silver. But the way I look at it, she's saying that acting on impulse because of your opinions is wrong. It's perfectly fine to have an opinion, as you said, but harrassing and hurting people because someone doesn't agree is not okay. You can't expect people to respect you if you don't respect them. That's why I love Starlight stamping the ground in that scene.

[@haileyparsons3844]

Finally I agree with you. The way Fluttershy acts now is different, I never had a problem with Fluttershy before she changed, to me that was the closest character that I could actually related to. And it doesn't take the first time to get it right, it takes numerous times to finally get it. Especially with some one who has social anxiety like Fluttershy had. It doesn't take a day for someone to overcome it takes time, and this could mean years. Though I'm glad that the show actually addressed it.

[@EmeraldDragon]

As a writer, I guess I come at this from the other side. Part of the problem with MLP - or anything with multiple authors like comics - is the multiple authors themselves.There is no one person controlling the message, and just as each of the fans see characters differently, so too do the different authors present them differently. Go through your favorite episodes, and I'll bet they are all largely written by the same author(s), while your least favorites also share author(s). For me, when someone says they are upset that Twilight got her wings, I'm a little surprised. Her Element came in a crown, in episode two, it was always a foregone conclusion she would become a princess. If she had stayed just unicorn Twilight the show would have had a lot of trouble growing, since part of life - and this is a slice of life show - is growing up and changing and taking on new responsibilities.

[@amandaslough125]

That's a good point. People complaining about Princess Twilight Sparkle for being a princess is disappointing and tedious. Now, the complaint that once she became a princess she lost part of her sass and gets too 'friendship is the best' kinda preachy, then yes, that is a perfectly valid argument over whether or not she has wings.

[@DigitalGame18]

For me it was never a forgone conclusion, that was the beauty of it, twilight was learning about friendship lessons, not how to be royalty. It's not like we expected Twilight to never grow as a character, I believe most of the fandom just assumed she would have been able to choose her own destiny like her friends would, that at some point celestia would have nothing left to teach her and she would become the teacher to a younger generation ala becoming the new starswirl or even an archmage, there were even a few scenes that toyed with the idea. So when the whole wings thing happened it didn't feel like a choice had been made or Twilight had really done anything that would make her want to be a princess, rather it just seemed like something thrust upon someone who wasn't ready for it because they had never learned to be ready for it. Not to mention how sloppily and filler-ish the entire episode that brought about this change was. But hey that was years ago and just my opinion.

[@EpicFableBean]

Heres the thing though the original plan wasnt for her to become a princess that element was just a token of leadership which doesnt have to mean princesshood as well as a toy ploy

[@LadyLunarSatine]

Writer here as well and I found myself partly thinking about the marketing issue and whether the journal was being sold or freely distributed like a Gideon bible. If it were sold, you'd have to divvy the profits some six-seven ways, possibly even giving Starlight a cut for contributing toward distribution in the first place. If it were free, I don't see why they would take up space in a book store that needs to make money. Of course, I also realize that's overthinking the show by a good bit.

[@lordelliott42]

I believe Lauren Faust has stated that in her original vision the plan was always that Twilight would be a princess, but that that would also be at or near the end of the series. Most complaints I heard at the time weren't that Twilight became a princess, but that it happened too fast. Creative writing has won over toy marketing for the most part though, and even if it's true that her becoming a princess was sudden, the show has moved on just fine along with most of the fans that were at all upset with it.

[@davidlathrop9360]

Silver Quill, I do not always agree with you, but I always respect your opinion. This time, I agree with you whole-heartedly. Thank you.

[@jean3947]

Silver: I am the most humble being in the universe! Me: *flashbacks to his "for whom the sweetie belle toils" review

[@lightyearpig12]

Sophie Walters I AM AWESOMENESS INCARNATE!

[@spectrumscribble1498]

Yeah, he's making contradictions

[@daelen.cclark]

He was being cheeky.

[@Thorn773]

Your review was really uplifting, and I love the message about fandoms. Most people have very negative views of most any fandom, a lot of them justifiable, especially when their only exposure has been the online facets of the fandom. But lots of people don't see or forget about the amazing good that fandoms can do as well. Conventions are a fantastic example of this. Even people who may be toxic online are unlikely to be so in person. Discourse over the internet does two things that encourage toxicity: it provides the safety of anonymity, and it removes the human element from those you interact with. You don't see a person that you disagree with, you see words in a comment section. So the hateful rebuttals and malicious words seemingly have no consequence. But fans meeting face to face, even if they completely disagree on every element of the fandom, won't have this kind of vitriolic discourse. At the end of the day, their opponent is still human, a fan like them, and on some level relatable. Face to face discussion ends up a lot more positive because it removes the barrier between people. It's a beautiful thing, just having a conversation with someone you share even the tiniest similarity to. On a more personal note, My Little Pony and its fandom in general has done a lot of good in my life. I have crippling social anxiety and have always struggled with it. I'm not quite at Fluttershy's level of complete social incompatibility, but I struggle with even the simplest of social interactions like going to the grocery store. But I heard about MLP and how many people loved it, so I started watching the show myself around the start of season 2. I fell in love with the characters and after a while I found the fandom. I ended up participating in discussions about episodes, speculating before the starts of new seasons, and bonding with people I would probably never have met otherwise, over a love for a pretty pink pony cartoon. Haha, it sounds ridiculous when I put it that way. After about a year of being a fan, I learned that a small convention was happening at a hotel in my town. Despite my fear of people, I found myself wanting to attend, to meet other fans in real life. One of my offline friends lived nearby and also enjoyed the show. She agreed to go with me, and we attended the convention together. I had never had so much fun while out in public. The whole day I was able to talk with people, laugh and make jokes, and see the amazing things people had made, from artwork to cosplays. It was only at the end of the day I realized: I HADN'T FELT PANICKED AT ALL. That may seem like a pretty poor baseline, but I couldn't even go do something as simple as eat at a restaurant without some degree of anxiety. The fact that I went through the whole day without worry or nerves taking over my senses was incredible to me. This ending up being one of my biggest motivators in working more to overcome my anxieties. I wanted to be able to experience more things like that convention. I'm nowhere close to over my anxieties, and maybe I never will be. But I am so much better than I was then. I can go shopping without risking a panic attack. I can feel safe at places besides locked in my home. I even managed to get a job, where before my inability to interact had limited me. My Little Pony and its fans had helped push me to becoming a better person. And I have always been so glad for it. I now try to make a habit of regularly attending conventions, not just for MLP, but for other things I enjoy. Knowing other people around me had common interests with me made the world seem a lot less scary. And I hope that other people will experience the same benefits I have, from whatever fandom they happen to find themselves in.

[@Thalog]

silver i want to share something with you. i used to be a die hard antibrony. i hated the idea of a girls show being so popular and beyond my comfort zone/ 5 eps into season 1 my gf forced me to watch a few eps with her. from then on my life was transformed, the very idea of a group who want you to just be you was beyond anything i ever experience. i was the crippled kid growing up so scorn and mockery was all i knew. but the fans of this show showed me a diff world. now im proud to be a brony, im proud to be a part of a fanbase who will never tell you what you should be. im proud to be who i am and im proud to be part of a fanbase who has such fun people as you. *brohoof*

[@Loku242]

About Starlight's line, she wasn't claiming it was everyone's fault for their opinions, but because they took their shit waaay too far

[@krowking123]

This episode is right!!!!!! WHY CAN'T I BE IN THE BOOK?!?!

[@homoceroscaeli]

krowking123 because Read the movies before you watch the books And you ate 6th

[@juanmanuelpenaloza9264]

Because you don't have the connections or make a hard enough impact on the fandom or didn't win in their OC competitions, assuming you participated.

[@DaylightTwinkle]

krowking123.....seriously?

[@Jonas-hp3ht]

WAIT WIAT WAIT WAIT WAIT! Silver Quill releasing an video about an episode just a couple weeks later! Did I end up in a parallel universe or what happened?

[@AndrewMeyer]

I guess he felt this episode in particular needed to be addressed sooner rather than later.

[@blissyay3382]

the rift broke

[@MxPokirby]

Are you from the Barenstain or Barenstein universe? This is important.

[@blissyay3382]

barenstein?

[@HunhowsShadowStalker]

Mr. Pokirby Wait, there are universes where it's spelled "baren" with an A rather than an E?

[@MrPikaFan]

This was a well-thought out and put- together video, Silver! When I first started watching MLP, I was just curious about this newest incarnation of a franchise for little girls. Now, I've been a Brony ever since, and I've never looked back. The main reason I see the fandom as a good place to be is that it's not only there to foster friendships and more, but I also see it as a place, like the furry fandom, where people who are shy, nervous, or have social anxiety can go with someone they trust and slowly start to come out of their shell. I also love this fandom because I see bits of myself in the mane six because I also relate to them. Like Fluttershy, I'm sometimes nervous in some situations, but I can be assertive when I need to be. I'm a hard worker like Applejack, and always honest. I love to cheer people up or comfort them when they're feeling down like Pinkie Pie, I'm sometimes a bit TOO detail-oriented like Twilight, but I also love learning new things and leading when I need to be. And yes, I sometimes internally freak out if something goes wrong. Like Rarity, I like to look good when I go someplace where I know I'll have fun, and also like to take in all the styles I see and smile. And like Rainbow Dash, I sometimes like good competition when it comes to either video games or trading card games. But really, I love this fandom because I see it as a family. We all look out for each other, help one another, raise money for charity, and also love to just be there for one another.

[@DrBernon]

7:22 I think you missed the point there. Starlight is not the author, she is a close friend or family member that tries to make her friends less worried about the fandom they have created by saying that they are not true fans, that they just don't get it. And i'm sure that is something the creators have heard a lot from people in their personal life. And if i recall correctly twilight doesn't actually accept that argument. Honestly when i watched the episode i saw it the same way but watching this video made me think about it.

[@elithesia781]

What a nice evaluation with possibilities and honesty. I never care about the wait between videos because it's always worth it. I take quality over speed any day.

[@ashura5221]

When you upload this kind of video, it always makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. ^^ Thank you Silver Quill. :)

[@sunfloraanddayses7647]

I am constantly hearing that Fluttershy fans don't have a voice, but ever since more and more reviewers come out as Fluttershy fans, their voice has been heard. Yet..I have a question. Where are the Twilight fans? I have never met anyone who is a Twilight Sparkle fan and she is arguably my favorite character in the entire show, before and after wings. In fact, to a certain degree, I think her character got better when she became a princess. Often times in shows, coming to a position of power is the end goal, much like relationships. However, we don't get to see how people not used to that power struggle with their position. We get to see that with Twilight and it is amazing!

[@sweetiebuns9066]

"Twilight was better before she got wings" best line in the entire show 😂

[@lilylionsir4912]

Finally a new episode of After the fact is here! I was waiting for this moment :)

[@NormanSanzo]

Personally I feel like the fandom has done a lot for me, getting to meet all the awesome people and making incredible friends is just amazing. I can't wait to talk about this episode once we get to it =D

[@MegaAnimationFan]

Damn SilverQuill. You have the most impeccable timing. Right when I'm in the middle of debating whether or not to leave this fandom, here you come with this video. And now I have even more to think about. Though I do have one rebuttal. And it's that line you mentioned @7:27. I feel that Starlight has a legit point. I mean the whole point of the journal was to bring everyone together and have other ponies learn from their experiences. And if 95% they are missing the point and taking everything out of context to the degree that has the exact opposite effect on not only the "fans" but also they themselves, I they can be blamed at least a little bit. Especially how far they take it. So I don't think it's resentment over folks having opinions per se. Not really. That being said, it could have been worded a little better because this is a very delicate subject matter. But I dunno, I just didn't have a problem with that line.

[@brigidtheirish]

On the other hand, in defense of Starlight's line, the crazy fans were focusing on the wrong things. Missing the forest for the trees and all that. Getting so caught up in nitpicking and ranting that they miss the positives.

[@andrewkful]

"is... is that really a thing? I haven't heard anyone ask that question." Rewatch "Pinke Apple Pie".

[@zackwyatt169]

andrewkful yes that's the only time people asked that question

[@DavidSilverGames]

I am of the firm opinion that a single supportive adult fan would have changed the episode dramatically, for the better I vote. Just one. Without it, it's too easy to see as 'We only care about the target audience, the rest of you are to be ignored and tolerated at best.'

[@cherryrush210]

David Silver Yeah, without that... The ending comes as a "target audience" argument, which in the greater context of the episode comes across as an implicit middle finger to the fandom.

[@jericdev]

This is likely your best deep dive into an episode I've seen, and that's saying a lot. Good job SQ

[@lordprototype7175]

I have been waiting so long for a video from Silver Quill FINALLY!

[@Midnight3Wonder]

When I saw those Fluttershy haters, I got extremely mad at them. They literally bullied her into a corner about her shyness and need to learn the same thing over and over again but she does finally stand up for herself and prove that she's become more assertive, they were mad at her. She gave them what they wanted and they thought the worst of her. At that point, I really wanted to kick their flanks into next week. I've always related to and identified with Fluttershy as, like her, I have anxiety and I don't do well around others but felt comforted and at ease around animals. My dad finds it annoying with how often I keep myself at a distance from things I don't particularly like even if I have a reason for it. He says I keep myself trapped in a box and I'm not allowing myself to grow or be tough. Yet, when I try to stand up for myself and be assertive, I get shot down and yelled at for talking back, even when I'm just trying to explain myself so that people can better understand me. If no one understands and try to force me into something I'm uncomfortable with, it does not end well. Understanding is the first step to helping someone get over something that may seem ridiculous to them but is a huge issue for the person having to deal with it. I want to grow and become stronger, but I do so at a slower pace than most. You can't just force me into a situation and expect me to get over it just like that. Many things in life take time, some more than others. Especially if you had a traumatic experience with something. For example, I have a terrible phobia of taxidermy due to an incident when I saw the rotting corpse of a dear. Before this incident, I was fine with it but after that I could no longer stand to be anywhere near it. Several times I ran out screaming my guts out because I saw taxidermy or I flat out break out bawling my eyes out from fear. My dad really hates this and often tries to force me into such places but I just end up more scarred than I was before (he someone who believes in "tough love"). I can't even stand to be near hunting equipment anymore. Seeing those ponies gang up on Fluttershy reminded me of all the times someone ganged up on me and tried to force me into something I was struggling with. When you do that, you may only be making things worse for that person and push them even further into their "box". We have to be allowed to take things at our own pace and, even if we have to learn the same lessons over and over again, we will eventually be able to get to where we want to go but it'll take time to get there. Watching Fluttershy grow has really given me hope that I, too, can grow into someone stronger and braver than I was before, even if it takes a while. I doubt I'll ever be able to overcome my phobia of taxidermy, but I can at least work on other things that I need to learn to overcome. I've already started that! When I was in middle school, I was pretty much the only kid who still couldn't cross the street because I tend to focus too much on where I'm going rather than my surroundings, leading me to nearly be hit by cars several times. Now I'm able to walk to Walmart and other nearby stores all on my own! I still have to call my mom to let her know I got there safe, but I'm really improving in something my family worried I'd never be able to do on my own. And it's all because I was allowed to do so at my own pace. I know my issues may seem silly to most people, but I know that there are people out there who could possibly relate to it. That's why I'm grateful that we have a character like Fluttershy. She's a pony who is growing into such a confident, strong, and brave inspiration for girls like me to look up to. With ever step Fluttershy takes to overcoming her faults, I feel like I'm also taking a step right alongside her with my own. Although we may never truly overcome them all, we're doing our best to get to where we want to be and it's at a pace we can endure without being scarred even further than before. For that, I thank Fluttershy for always inspiring me. And to those who cannot stand her for taking her time and having to repeat herself, I have only this to say: "Yes, it took us a while to get there. But can you honestly say that you can learn something one time and complete change who you are?"

[@Biklingchan85]

This. I can relate so much to this. I really hate that the "tough love" model has become popular these days. Here's the thing: "tough love" doesn't work for everyone, and for some, it may either make things worse, or appear to work, but would come at a huge, irreparable price, like that person's trust. Like you, I also take things at a slow pace. I didn't do incredibly well in school because I had ADHD, and things just didn't seem to stick. My dad's solution: ask me if I was "stupid or something" whenever he was trying to help me with homework. He might have thought that it worked in getting me to work harder, but what he didn't see was that I would literally bash my own head out of frustration for not understanding the concepts I was "supposed" to be able to understand. It also caused me a great amount of anxiety just being around him (I also have generalized anxiety disorder on top of that), and now I have major trust issues (granted, that issue in itself was more a culmination of a series of events, not all related to my dad, but you get the idea). And yeah, like you, any time I did any semblance of standing up for myself, my dad would yell at me and punish me for "talking back." By the way, I really relate to Fluttershy as well, for her anxieties and for her gentleness and love for animals. It frustrates me when people say that Fluttershy is uninteresting or they just plain hate her just because she has to learn the same lessons over and over, because for me, I've had to address the same issues over and over again in therapy. Nonetheless, I feel that I have made way more progress overcoming things by being allowed to go at my own pace, rather than being forced into something.

[@genius11433]

Midnight☪Wonder Thank you for sharing your story. It's people like you that help the world see that Fluttershies _do_ exist, and that she is not just a cartoon caricature of shy people. I wish you all the best in your personal growth, and that people may get to learn to understand people like you better.

[@addisondrake733]

Ok Fluttershy is not my favorite of favorite characters but like Silver Quill I love seeing how weakness and strength go hand in hand. However like Fluttershy I have anxiety as in clinically diagnose anxiety it's not as bad as Fluttershy's but I still have it. It's so bad that I don't ask for forgiveness because I feel like I failed the teachers by not asking for help before hand and by not paying attention. My dyslexia (and dysgraphia) ADHD and anxiety does not make my life easy if I have to do something I really couldn't care less about I drag my feet doing it resulting in a low grade. If I like it and I have to do an essay no one can understand what I wrote, resulting in a low grade. To top it off because there are people who say "why you dissing on me cuz i'm [blank]?" I hate telling people that I have a more difficult time reading, constructing, writing, stay calm, or just plan making since because if my disabilities. Also because of my ADHD I'm what my mom calls 'intense' meaning that whenever I have a conversation that I'm really into I go really deep into it. I'm also loud, talk too much, and never ask about other peoples opinions. The reason why I don't is because I assume that they'll just tell me if they want to, but growing up I have to learn to ask people how their day was (and I get so exited remembering to ask people how their day was I literally jump up and down) and make sure they let their voice be heard. I'm still talkative, loud, and intense but I've grown. However without my intenseness I wouldn't be me

[@Midnight3Wonder]

In case it came off that way, I don't hate my dad or anything for the tough love. I love him very much and I'm a bit of a "daddy's girl" you could say despite our issues. My mom often tells me that the reason why my dad and I often ram our heads against each other is because of how much alike we are. Like my dad, I'm pretty stubborn and I can have quite the temper once someone pushes the right buttons. An aggressive one, no less. But, I've found that this stubbornness seems to run in the family. Like me and my dad, his dad is also rather stubborn and it becomes quite impossible to explain something to him once he sets on mind on something and will even persist with the argument even when someone tries to end it. But I'd like to think that it makes us fighters who won't back down from the things we believe in. A negative trait can turn into a good one once you figure out how to use it properly. I just wish I had more nerve so I could speak up and get others to shut up when needed.

[@Midnight3Wonder]

Thank you so much for saying that, genius11433. It means a lot more than you'd expect.

[@dumchumps8698]

Thanks for posting this Silver-Quill It's actually something I needed to hear as I'm preparing to upload my own MLP Fan-ficitons.

[@bonepointriverstone]

To be perfectly honest, altho i have have made friends through sharing an interest in shows like this and other things, the negativity and darker sides of the fandoms that im apart of, and now identify as, i have always been quiet about when it comes to meeting new people or talking to my own family about it. Even tho most of your videos i enjoy for the comidic yet rational outlook on episodes, this video takes the cake for being my favorite out of all of your other videos, because for me its a reminder that just because people can have toxic opinions, it doesn't mean its okay to be ashamed of who i am as a fan of this show and many other fandoms that i relate to and/or identify with. Without this video, i probably would be less open about what i like and who i identify as when it comes to fandoms. It took me a couple hundred replays to try to understand the message due to a disability that at one point people used to identify me if they knew about it along with many other problems physical, emotional, and otherwise, but at the end of the day the message is still the same and its a helpful one. Thank you for the awesoke videos, comedic gags/jokes, and being an amazing fan

[@JohnnyFerno]

I am so thankful for how you looked at this episode Silver. I've even heard some people say that they are offended by this episode. This episode struck a weird, but good, chord with me. I went to Galacon this year, my first convention ever and being there and experience all of the love, the excitement and friendly nature that came from the entire event, just made me even more proud to love this show and be a part of this fandom. I even got a short chance to talk to some of the people on the show, and outside, who inspires me the most! After such an even, this episode was just such a blast to watch. I wouldn't have such a love for it now, if I hadn't tasted so much of the loving side of the fandom. Hope this ramble makes sense. o.o

[@rosella3723]

Well there was countless times where your videos were nothing short of negativ. That's what I hate about you the most. What I LIKE about you the most is how you can bring out the positive and humorous side of MLP. Well we are all very different from each other and have different points of view but that's the most amazing thing about the fandom. People can help you see the show in a way you have never imagined. Where I live I was never able to be a part of any fandom of any show ever. I liked the show but I didn't know anyone who liked it like me. Plus the show started when I was only 2 years old. And I guess I didn't even consider thinking that there might be persons like me who liked the show. But now through the MLP channels on KZbin I am able to see what it's really like. And I guess I am realizing how wrong I was and how our differences help us. And you Silver Quill are the reason why I finally understand. 😊

[@SamuraiEchidna]

Thank you, Silver-Quill. This episode nearly destroyed me, but you built me back up again. And if I could change one thing about this episode, it would be that more than 2 little fillies took all of the book to heart. If anything, there would be a collection of Mares and Stallions of all ages, just like how this show has left a positive impact on people of all ages.

[@MariktheGunslinger]

The way I see it, there are mainly two kinds of people in fandoms: Those who partake for enhancement, and those who partake for validation. MLP has enhanced my artistic and literary talents, given me something to bond with strangers over, and allowed me to make a legacy of my own. Those who are only in it for validation don't have a creative bone in their body, are overly demanding of the staff, and use the work as their lifeblood; you see an unfortunate amount of these types in the Steven Universe fandom, though that's just a more prominent example, for they exist everywhere. I remember this one jackass on Equestria Daily who claimed he was gonna kill himself if Applejack wasn't given more screentime. What a twat. If you're a fan of anything, it's your responsibility to balance doing whatever makes you happy with making your ilk look good. That way, if someone takes issue, it's their problem, and not yours.

[@NyxTheBraix]

VALIDATION THO

[@mikamichelina5633]

I definitely understand what you mean. For me, I get a sense of validation, but not this specific form of validation. If I had to describe my personality, it would be a hybrid of Pinkie and Fluttershy, but I'll focus on the Fluttershy part. I'm on the autism spectrum and can be easily overwhelmed and anxious. Some moments, I feel like I'm not improving on different social skills and issues because I'm either too scared of conflict, or I feel incredibly emotional and guilty over something that is minor or even nonexistent. Because of this, I get really frustrated because I feel that I'm just learning and relearning the same thing over and over. After watching Fame and Misfortune and Silver's videos on this specific topic, I now know it's something that I can't immediately overcome. It takes time, and I may hit a few bumps on the way, but that's ok. No one is perfect nor learns everything on the first try. You put effort to it and practice it. I felt real empathy from what Fluttershy said to the fans of Twilight's book and felt her speech validated my feelings about myself on a daily basis, and I'm truly grateful for that.

[@lastminutewonder9602]

Love this silver Quail! I had so many mixed feelings after this episode mostly because I’m not a hard-core Broni. And the real fanbase scares me A little. But I absolutely adore watching the runny analysis come together and just be together. And this kind of gives me the feeling like it’s a club not an obsession. Please come together and share something you all like and should grow talents. And that something I can get behind

[@AuroraWindsong]

When I first watched the episode, I knew that there would be a divide in the fans over this. And in truth, I was quite worried, wondering why the writers would risk this. From a PR standpoint this could be a seen as an insult to the fans, though it is a part of the fandom. And some lines here and there were worded in a way that didn't help this ideal. But, I do like how you pointed out that this is only ONE part of the fandom. There is so much creativity and love within this group, which is why I became a brony in the first place. (Well, that and the song "Our Town" kept showing up in the recommended section until I finally clicked on it. And it was your supplement video of 'Do Princesses Dream of Magic Sheep' that introduced me to the fandom as a whole. Thank you for that!) I do wish the writers would have shown this part of the fandom in the episode, even if only for a few seconds, but they did kind of by showing the two little fillies who understood the point. I watch the videos of bronycon and other events, listen to music inspired by the show, admired fan art, and of course watch reviewer videos and I'm in awe at how one show can bring so many people together, and inspire so many people to do so many things. Also any time I see you've put up another video it just makes my day. And congratulations to Will and Katie!!!

[@briarpelt2333]

Thanks. I really felt... how should I put it... bashed over the head by this episode. Even though I'm not exactly a vocal member of the fandom, I felt insulted and rejected--and maybe that's more because of how I recieved it than how it was intended, but nevertheless, I needed to hear this.

[@spectrumscribble1498]

9:20 S.Q.: *"I AM THE HUMBLEST BEING IN THE UNIVERSE!!"* Me: *(thinks back to the "For Whom the Sweetie Belle Toils" review)* Past S.Q.: "Let's start with my ego." Egotistical S.Q.: *"I AM AWESOMENESS INCARNATE!!!"* Me: Kinda making contradictions there, Silver.

[@thebeavpercabethftw9604]

Can you imagine how Spike would be treated if he was in this episode?

[@shiningarmor2838]

“Stop treating him like shit, we love him!” “Have him solve someone else’s problem for once!” “When is he going to start acting like an adult?” “Give us a hint that some character has feelings for him!” “Why is he still in the background of the adventures?” “I’m not racist, but what is a dragon doing in our pure, pony country?” “Shouldn’t Spike have been given an element?” “Why is Spike still doing servant work when Twilight obviously has a large portion of the guard at her service?”

[@CheeseTheWhistle]

Why is Spike hurt for comedic effect?

[@gobokinje9183]

The Shatner big you said was why I was personally excited to meet you and Dr.Wolf at Ponycon this year. Glad to see this fervor wasn't just a face.

[@coal9205]

I just got out of a conversation with my parents about somthing similar, along with mental and physical health since they noticed it plummeting Silverquill you have the most comedic timing and I thank you for making me laugh.

[@DracoZaroff]

Thank you for this. Since that episode I've had this dark little cloud of self awareness and shame. I often tend to be overly sensitive to criticism even if it's not directly toward me and only applies by association. Hearing you put it all into perspective helped me see that the lesson of the episode was twofold and that I shouldn't be ashamed my own flaws or those of the fandom.

[@cpcoultertweedles7216]

Once again, I have to thank you for the message you've put forward in your videos. I'm not the biggest MLP fan. I'm mostly interested in the reviews of the episodes because I find online critics funny (BTW, you make third of my top critics of all time, behind Linkara and Firebrand). But I've had the fandom issue before, most recently with Harry Potter. At times, it feels like the Harry Potter fandom is toxic. There's constant criticism of anyone who doesn't read or doesn't like the books. The movies are frequently hated on. And if you dare to say that any element of the movies was better than the books, you will be flooded with outraged comments until you want to slink away like that Fluttershy fan. But you're right in saying that this is only one part of the fandom. Go to a Harry Potter trivia event, or a book night, or a movie marathon, and you'll meet fans young and old who love the series for all its irrationalities and failings, who are tolerant of those who ship other partners or show other characters more forgiveness, and who just want to get together to celebrate a series we all love. And while it can be hard to remember that those people exist when facing a wave of criticism and nitpicks...it doesn't mean they aren't there, and it doesn't serve as a detriment to Harry Potter itself

[@Yukaha]

+

[@Ikajo]

So true about the Harry Potter fandom. I'm a writer and have a degree in writing, so when I'm reading or watching something I often look at it from a technical viewpoint. When it comes to Harry Potter I find the books rather poorly written. I grew up with the books, I used to love them and I've read them several times. The story itself is fairly good but the writing isn't. The characters are often poorly made and doesn't have a development. I have quite a few opinions about the books but I've never said I hate them or that they shouldn't be liked. I just think it is wrong that they are held to a standard they don't have. Some treat the books, and Rowling, as the epitome of writing. Just for daring to say I don't think the books are perfect and that Rowling is sort of overrated as an author I've been harshly attacked. Dragged and treated like dung. All because I have an opinion about a book series and an author. Btw, I also watch Silver Quill because I think he is funny but I also like that he analyse things from a storytelling point. Looking at an issue from more than one direction and doing some research. It makes it more interesting and goes beyond critique of the show.

[@AzulianaKitty]

Taken to the extreme the HP fandom was "better" when we don't have 24/7 access to the internet :D (I am old fan who use to write actual letters to the other fans)

[@brittn2410]

It's been too long. I've missed these videos.

[@FlareTheCharizard]

The kindness I try to bring every con I go to and make those happy are awarding, recently I learned if it wasn't for a simple hug I gave while suiting up in my big yellow pony fursuit in BUCK 2016 things for a dear friend of mine could of gone far worse for him. I try to give out this beyond the shows I watch, I enjoy mlp so much but I suit up not only a fan of the show but because I enjoy those amazing moments that last forever, that happiness I bring for those short moments to many. You caption that perfectly Silver at 12:44 (That is me the huggable yellow Pegasus) Thank you so much...

[@ParadoxBrony]

As of the 22nd of this month I have been an almost completely silent onlooker of the show for 6 years. I've been here since a month before the premiere of Season 2, from that point I have seen every episode the day it airs. I don't regret a single moment. Keep being awesome Silver.

[@370H-SSV]

And thus all of the ponies who were still waiting outside the castle came running towards everyone's favorite hippogriff.

[@CheeseTheWhistle]

*plays the Lion King Stampede music*

[@DiegoAlanTorres96]

At the end of the song you can see some ponies are satisfied with it and some even loudly praise it while the rest keep discussing and making a scene. I feel this detail was very important to the point of the episode.

[@fraya1022]

You definitely inspired me, Silver Quill! Both you and Dr. Wolf gave me the courage to be in this fandom and openly (as much as a broke boy who can't afford cons can be) enjoy the show. Your videos inspire me, they uplift me when I'm sad and it feels like I have a friend even when I feel my most loneliest. I just want to say thank you so much for that!

[@cozmicdoodles7167]

I loved your thoughts on this episode! I personally never saw it as a "oh this is what the entire fandom is" I saw it as more just calling out the "bad" fans and the writers expressing their frustration while simultaneously saying "As long as we can effect even a few people in a positive way, that's what matters in the end". And I didn't see it as "Ignore any criticism" though like some fans think it meant, because most of the towns ponie's complaints were personal opinions or nit picks that they were treating as something the mane six MUST abide by, just like how some fans act like because they dislike something means the writers must do what they say. It was a good episode, even if not perfect, but they did bring up a lot of great points and I can't blame them for their frustrations. Also, I didn't notice the discouraged Flutter Shy fan. Thanks for pointing that out! Really brings a lot more meaning to that scene.

[@EuroMIX2]

_"oh this is what the entire fandom is" I saw it as more just calling out the "bad" fans and the writers expressing their frustration while simultaneously saying "As long as we can effect even a few people in a positive way, that's what matters in the end"._ The problem is the _only_ ponies who are shown to have "got the intended message" are young fillies; clearly stand-ins for the intended audience. If they'd had more of a mix of different ponies at the end then that message would have been stronger.

[@thebeavpercabethftw9604]

You guys notice the mare complaining about Fluttershy learning the same thing over and over again had a Glass of Water cutie mark?

[@thebeavpercabethftw9604]

I was talking about someone else that's in the fandom, but I can see the resemblance to Bernie, too.

[@MLPSilverQuill]

I view that as a "glass-half-empty" symbol. I doubt the show staff are calling out anyone specific.

[@thebeavpercabethftw9604]

Fair enough. But, judging by one of her posts she certainly thinks so.

[@funcoolfunfun]

... Well, looks like i have something to look for

[@AnInkStick]

Austen Beaver I hope it was directed to lily peet

[@gerardomunoz6725]

I do actually get the criticism about how repetitive Fluttershy episodes can be. I understand that realistically a person doesn't change instantly after one lesson. However from an entertainment point of view seeing a character having to learn a variation of a similar lesson one episode after another can be boring and ultimately MLP:FIM is a tv show that has to entertain as much as teaching a lesson. As much as I like seeing her being assertive in "Fluttershy Leans In" but the rest of the episode to me was so boring I don't really see myself watching it a second time. Just saying a tv show with a good lesson doesn't mean anything without the entertainment value.

[@professorhaystacks6606]

Now I liked the idea of Fluttershy Leans In because the issue wasn't her being timid. Admittedly it was not that entertaining for the middle 3rd-ish of the episode, where it was very predictable consequences playing out. I'd add to this, though, that with Fluttershy and RD, while it may be realistic in some cases, it's not certain that that's why the authors did it... they may have just been too lazy to think up an idea that didn't revolve around that.

[@princestarcraft7443]

This is a great a episode and a great message for the fandom for 7 years

[@DragonxFlutter]

"The purpose of the journal wasn't supposed to be marketing." The purpose of the show is marketing. The purpose of the _story and characters_ has and will always be about much more. As a side, I found humor in this episode at times because I've been on Tumblr. I know how crap fanbases can get. We seriously need to clean the Tambl Pool.

[@CheeseTheWhistle]

Or we could just nuke Tumblr

[@sombertone395]

You're the first I've seen to mention the Fluttershy fan. I'm glad others found that moment to jump out at them.

[@Toonamp]

My word. Very well done my friend. I don't know which is more surprising. The fact that you've gotten this done so fast, or the fact that you've gotten this done while in the middle of a meme war with Lightning Bliss of Twitter.

[@kablamshkie]

you know, the first time i did watch the episode the first thing i thought of was your video about the death of the author. and honestly, you make me glad to be apart of this fandom, silver. i cant wait to go to everfree northwest soon and to meet and see all the people and viewpoints!

[@Vash2123]

I love everything of this fandom & what this shows does. Despite the negative. Love your videos & the messages you bring out that others miss.

[@crystalrose7683]

It's awesome to see my engagement from NMN on here. Thanks for including it in your video.

[@pichugirl6]

Love the message, silverquill. I was surprised how in the episode there was no Spike fans given he did wrote in a few morals, then again it was focusing on just the main 6.

[@dustykatt]

I couldn't add to this if I tried, again you nail it on the head. Thanks for this!!!!

[@youtubercritic]

This video makes me think back to the fandoms I'm in, like Nintendo and Star Wars, and think of all the criticism I had bout them, and makes me love being in them more not because of the flaws, but to show how much I enjoy them, despite the flaws

[@charleefulop1544]

WHY CAN'T SPIKE BE IN THE BOOK/EPISODE !?!?

[@HunhowsShadowStalker]

Because ponies are racist towards dragons.

[@charleefulop1544]

SPIKE #1

[@CheeseTheWhistle]

Because ponies often are xenophobic

[@spectrumscribble1498]

Hey, Spike has written his own journals! Nobody focuses on him because they see him as a supporting character!

[@Zodia195]

One of those final comments about how us content creators putting ourselves out there really hit home for me. Last month, I got a comment from one of my readers (yes I write besides draw lol) how much they loved my stories. What I remember the most was how my stories took them to another place entirely and help them escape reality, which is actually what I hope to accomplish with my works, since it's the same reason why I seek out entertainment stuff.

[@PenntheDragon]

Thank you for uploading this video Silver Quill, after all the craziness of that episode of who was right or who was wrong, you're video was a great response and consensus.

[@cherrydreamblastartsandrea4507]

I agree the fanbase has brought me out of my shell I don't let my fame go to my head I love fans but the important thing is to spread friendship. Friendship is magic afterall we as bronies must spread a positive message to others so they to can learn the power of friendship.

[@LanayruPromenade]

I'm in love wth AJ's one line in this episode. Correct me if I get it wrong. "I'm popular! I'm popular and I don't like it one bit!"

[@sofiekakurosu9161]

I came to watch this video while feeling unsure about a new art piece I made, and now I feel positive about it and inspired to make more. Thank you Silverquill!

[@bendewalt5560]

man when i watched this I never expected to see myself in it...you have no idea how excited that makes me, thanks Mr. Quill.

[@silasruedin9566]

First: William Shatner voiced Grand Pear in "The Perfect Pear", so Grand Pear gets the video's thumbnail image; clever! Second: I love the thoughts you presented here, and I'm proud of the MLP canon creators for letting this episode see the light of day (I've read somewhere that M.A. Larson had the idea for it, but was reluctant to have produced for a while). It's reminded me of how the MLP staff feels and what they go through; an episode we needed to see.

[@Just-Another-Adventurer]

As always a good review Silver! My friend and I watched the episode on the drive home from Bronycon and it created by far the greatest discussion we had about the show. I have met both sides of the spectrum while I myself like to keep off to the side cause I find it more fun there. Regardless it was fun to meet you, Maddie, and Lightning Bliss at Bronycon! Hopefully next time I am there for more than just one day.

[@Wissle]

I don't know how you do it, but I find your videos very entertaining - and I am not usually interested in this kind of content. Thank you for sharing this with the world!

[@gotanybits5036]

Love the analysis Silver

[@maliceflare]

the Captain is also quite fun on Twitter, especially when he live tweets the shows he watches...

[@ripple-effect-mlp]

This particular episode made a slightly different impact on me than I think it did on most people. This episode made me uncomfortably self-conscious when I first viewed it, partially *because* it premiered during BronyCon. It made me worried because I am still new in the MLP fandom, and I am still trying to come out of my shell, even though attending BronyCon this year and Nightmare Nights last year gave my confidence some leaps and bounds. There are several people in the MLP fandom that I want to genuinely get to know better, not just because I am a fan, but because I feel pretty sure that a sincere friendship can be forged between these individuals and myself if given the chance. But at the same time, I know that it's not about me, so I go out of my way to avoid pushing the prospect...even to a point where I sometimes don't even bother to try. (After all, my idols have many, many other fans who are just as enthusiastic about meeting them as I am, if not more. They don't need me to be the straw to break their backs, even by accident...) And when I do try, I constantly worry about the risk of going too far...just like the foals who idolize Rainbow Dash or the ponies who try to ingratiate themselves with Applejack. I know that, when I look at those moments in hindsight, I realize that I didn't try hard enough...but when I'm actually in the moment, I worry about trying too hard. I didn't watch this episode for the first time until Saturday evening at BronyCon, after I had done everything that I could do before I had to leave Sunday morning. And when I did watch the episode, I felt very uneasy. Did I focus only on what's on the surface like the Pinkie Pie fans? Am I turning into a Sweet Apple Admirer? I know I didn't follow my idols everywhere...but do my idols feel like I did? And the worst part was, because this was only after I had finished everything I meant to do at BronyCon, whatever damage I might have done (admittedly very little, if any) or opportunities I might have missed (likely many) are gone and done.

[@mythmask7864]

Thanks for the video, Silver. I've been struggling a bit recently with my own fan-made work towards a videogame, and felt that it was... Well.... Too strange. You reminded me that the journey is fun, the goal is worth it, and the time spent, just laughing and thinking, talking and playing? That's worth more than all the gold in the world. Thanks for the help. (I know you can't actually see this, but if you do.. Thanks for reading this far, man.) I pray you have a wonderful remainder of your day/evening. -M. R. M.

[@susieq721]

just like Dr. Wolf said in the comments, your videos are great at making me think. they are usually so thought provoking and this is no exception!

[@evelynatcraneshearth]

You know this episode gave him a lot to think on when it's released *this soon*. Great video Silver. Sadly I enjoyed your review more than the episode. Having been on the edge of several fandoms, ignoring the toxic people takes practice. Most people don't have the patience to put in that kind of practice. It's nice to see folks like you have. Looking forward to the next AtF!

[@WesternEchidna]

This video shows why your one of my favorite mlp analysts. You see more of the positive and focus on it more. But you dont ignore the negative or really go to overboard with it. I would say 100% of the time you always have good messages and takes from these analysis' and thats something we need more of. I hope someday i can go to a brony convention and meet you. You are what we need.

[@FeatherFall101]

when the song came on I was immediately reminded of the dazzlings. i'm not sure if it was the tune or the lyrics but thats all i could think of. i'm really happy fluttershy asserted herself after she was ganged up on (once she had a calming presence to help her get hold of her self again) and notice how it was only after fluttershy walked away that they started giving her attitude again?

[@connorthompson8376]

Well said!!! :) To paraphrase a quote of yours, 'This show and fandom have had a positive impact on my life and the lives of others, and I wouldn't trade it for all the gems in the world.'

[@Moonlitwatersofaqua]

The pony complaining about fluttershy has a glass of water cutie mark. Is it a lily peet cameo? >8)

[@christinew1644]

This is a good and well-thought-out discussion. I'm glad you took the time to make this.

[@Flitterkriz]

Great work! ❤️❤️ Happy to se more of after the fact😍👍

[@Omegaa6861]

every video of your's I watch I either get some good laughs or leave with pride in being apart of the fandom, thank you :)

[@summersweete09]

I find the best feeling in world when it comes to fandoms at least is knowing that people share your interest :)

[@blueteller]

This is wonderful. I 100% agree. As many negative aspects fandoms have, they still bring people together.

[@DoctorTex]

"But not Rainbow's ego, because *I AM THE HUMBLEST BEING IN THE UNIVERSE!*" *Meanwhile, back in For Whom The Sweetie Belle Tolls* "Alright, it's your psyche on the line. Let's start with me ego." "*I AM AWESOMENESS INCARNATE*" I'm not the only one who thought that, right?

[@krabynaby123]

Silver, I wanted to let you know that in all of this, you've helped me in ways you'll probably never know. From aiding me through the death of my grandmother with your "Tanks For the Memories" videos, to giving me laughs in hard times with your antics in your other reviews. I love your outlook on the fandom, and I couldn't agree more. There are issues to be sure, but overall this fandom and the show it's based on has helped people. And isn't that all we can as for? To help others, to help people?

[@doodlerful]

@12:53 tell me thats not a USAF Airman partially in his blues! lmao that is so illegal. Great video Silver Quill. Always a pleasure to hear such well thought out points especially in regards to the fandom. Also that is crazy to me about DrWolf, one of my favorite episode reviewers!

[@sophiej6893]

Ahh, those proposals Silver Quill showed near the end are so sweet.

[@Dark_Tale_2077]

That song, We're Not Flawless, will forever be one of my favorite songs to come out of this show. I resonate with it so much. :D

[@briannacherrygarcia]

11:16 Huzzah, I am officially in your video! It was great to meet you!

[@acommenter6476]

Thank you Silver Quill, I don't exactly like how I love the show my little pony and sometimes I think I'm not doing enough but I can take from this that, I am doing something. I made someone smile today, I protected my sister from a bad friend and I helped someone to just simply get up. It wasn't big nor was it grand and I thought it wasn't enough but I know now that I am doing something. Your videos inspire me and make me laugh, never stop making them please! Thank Silver Quill for being the butt of a million jokes!

[@chrono1231]

I really like this review right here. It hit a lot of what I was thinking when I watched the episode for the first time. I don't write comments often but before I found this channel, and then all the other reviewers, I started to fall out of the show as I only saw the surface. The more I watch these reviews the more fun I have with the show and other shows. I'm really glad I found this par of the fandom.

[@links5957]

remember first time getting the fandom, just two years ago. had good time watching. fell in love with MLP. all the cute adventures main 6 traveling to different parts equestria finding demons and monsters. all the lessons it has. heck any episode it has a lesson. just a little you thing about that lesson and the episode you watch. JUST INJOY YOUR Self watching my little pony. awesome review Silver

[@RedTailedSmeargle]

Thank you for making this. I want to participate in the fandom more and be a better person. But I'm also afraid of embarrassing myself. I don't know how to proceed sometimes you know? So it's interesting to see an episode like this and it's response, and something as thoughtful as this.

[@missloveandevol]

My interest in the show had been waning for a while, and all the very negative outlooks on the fandom were a factor in that, making me almost ashamed for being a fan, even if I didn't do any of the things people still believe all bronies do. Eventually, things can just get to you. For some reason though, I never unsubscribed from any of the brony channels I watched, but never got around to clicking on the videos. Except, I clicked on this one. And I'm glad I did. Not only did I enjoy what you had to say, but I feel happy to see that the herd is still alive and well after all these years, that the show still has such a positive impact. I'm sorry to say, that my first thought when I saw the clips of the proposals was, "Those are probably is some cringe compilation." But at the end of the day, who cares? What's important is that two couples have love and happiness. I think I'm gonna do some catching up with the show and try to see as much as I can before the movie comes out. Also, seeing that William Shatner eventually came to have a better understanding of Trekkies made me smile. I wish stories like that would get more attention.

[@mlpdisneylover]

This episode I still feel like is very relevant to this day! Not only is this a meta episode towards the fan base, but it can also be true to real life people with fandoms, like KZbinrs and music artists!

[@redclover8387]

YAY SILVER QUILL! Glad your addressing this topic, its not bad to review out of order, just tackling the more interesting or controversial episodes is a great way to keep it fun for yourself^^

[@AndrewMeyer]

1:06 Wait, what? Wow, I honestly didn't notice that before. That's a great little detail. Makes the episode even better IMO.