CVK

Hey - good to see we’re not the only ones who have a problem with the way people use the word “exotic” to describe women of color! Blog fourfour always does HILARIOUS recaps of America’s Next Top Model, and if you have a look at the comments following its recap of Wednesday’s finale episode, there’s some interesting discussion about the term “exotic.” [btw, clearly I don’t endorse the use of the term “bitches” to describe the contestants here, even if people would argue it’s being used in an affectionate way…]

–I knew they would pick her because they have gone with the exotic look for too many shows in a row.

–…and by “exotic” you mean black? Wow. That’s rich. Now Black Bitches who were born and raised in California, USA are being labeled “exotic?” I love it!

–historically speaking, “exotic” has always been an adjective used to describe people of color.

–If they pick 3 “exotic”, “black”, “mixed race” winners…a definite pattern emerges. It makes since that Cover Girl would choose to feature a different face for a change. And Elle Girl has to sell, and their readership relates more to Nicole’s image. ANTM is all about hawking makeup and magazines and if you think for one second that Cover Girl and Elle Girl didn’t have a vote in which girl should win, you’re kidding yourself.

–but really, people– can we MAYBE stop using the word “exotic” to describe people? ain’t y’all learn nothing from Edward Said? sheesh.

–Do you think Said is watching ANTM from Heaven? That would be hot!

–Well, I guess a bitch like Eva would look “strikingly different or unusual” to someone who lives in… Nebraska? The only thing “different,” “unusual,” and “fascinating” about those girls is that they don’t look like what white people typically think Black Women look like (in other words, they’re hot).