postr/StutterJanuary 7, 2024

Shrek is too relatable😭

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Content

Shrek is too relatable😭 Watching Shrek as a kid it was just the normal animated movie that is humorous and fun to watch. But rewatching rescently almost had me tearing up bcs i literally felt like i was Shrek due to my stutter. If you haven't watched it please do before reading this. Here we go.. Shrek is a seemingly grumpy and misunderstood ogre. With his green skin, unconventional appearance, and a house in the forest for solitude, stands out as an embodiment of uniqueness. Remarkably, within the layers of humor and fantasy, Shrek's journey can be symbolical for individuals dealing with stuttering, a speech impediment often misunderstood and overlooked. Shrek's Character: Shrek's initial isolation reflects the experience of many who stutter. Stuttering can lead to SOCIAL WITHDRAWAL and a feeling of being an outsider. Similarly, Shrek residing in the forest away from society, shuns the world to avoid judgment. The parallels extend to the misjudgements society makes about Shrek, mirroring the misconceptions often held about us stutterers. Navigating Misconceptions: Shrek's character challenges stereotypes associated with ogres, proving that appearance can be deceiving. Similarly, we often confront misconceptions about our personality, abilities and even intelligence. I've heard many ppl on this sub say they've missed job opportunities and stuff due to stuttering. The struggle to be recognized beyond the surface, to prove competence despite speech difficulties, parallels Shrek's quest to break free from stereotypes. Am also speaking about the stupid stereotypes like 'people who stutter have a hight temper' just like Fiona's dad says "its in his natute to be a bit of a brute" The Quest for Acceptance: Shrek's journey towards self-acceptance resonates deeply with those who stutter. The layers of vulnerability he reveals as he opens up to companionship mirror the journey of a stutterer trying to fit in. The quest for acceptance, both of oneself and from others is a central theme. Friendship and Companionship: Shrek's friendships with Donkey and Fiona emphasize the need for relationships. Just like Shrek, we often find companionship from those who accept us despite our stutter. Someone on this sub once said "if you find someone who doesn't judge your stutter dont lose them" The Layers of Identity: Shrek's ogre identity becomes a source of pride rather than shame. In a parallel manner, we can embrace our unique speech as an integral part of our identity. This is the second thing I love most about the movie. Its about accepting our differentness, quirks and uniqueness and stuff without shame. I said thats the second so there has to be a first.. its in the comments to avoid making this too long. In conclusion, Shrek's journey from a misunderstood ogre to a beloved hero mirrors the journey of individuals who stutter. Both Shrek and us celebrate the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of self-acceptance. Shrek's green skin becomes a symbol NOT OF OTHERNESS BUT OF UNIQUENESS, much like the distinct speaking we have. Embracing the ogre within, much like Shrek, becomes a powerful tale of triumph over adversity.

Themes

Identity & DisabilitySocial & Relationships

Subthemes

Identity & Self-PerceptionAcceptance & PrideStigma & BullyingFriendships & Belonging