American Idol is one of my favorite TV shows... "no homo." Your my best bud, and I really miss you, dude... "no homo." Those mantyhose actually are quite comfortable... "no homo." Oh, how two simple words have provided the current generation of heterosexual, or supposed heterosexual males the freedoms to act sensitive, which has been labeled as a more feminine emotion through the years.
As straight men we are supposed to chop down trees while chugging beers and checking out that impressive rack with our peripherals. We don't have feelings. Instead, we grunt and watch sports. Our passion only leaks out when our teams prevail or during sex. Wait, so society is changing? Images and standards are evolving? Funny how that all works.
But this isn't a rant on a graceful phrase. No, I use it here and there. I feel it is harmless and do not mean it to be offensive in any manner. I'm quite the liberal person and have no issues with homosexuality. Some people use the phrase as a defense, others as a mere tag line. But I like to look at the issue in a more unorthodox manner. Like I mentioned, society is changing. It's becoming more "acceptable" for straight guys to actually act somewhat emotional. Those that use "no homo" as a defense mechanism are resisters to this change, like Cam'ron, who in the video below feels that simply saying certain things can determine your sexual orientation. In contrast Jadakiss' words "Put it out, let the streets talk no promo, a real man shouldn't have to say no homo," are much more logical. A dude who is comfortable with himself and confident with his sexuality should not have to clarify his statements with the risk that they might make him appear to be homosexual. A man who says "no homo" in seriousness in a attempt to "erase the 'gayness'" of his words or to reaffirm his sexual orientation, may just have some issues that lie a bit deeper.
My final thoughts on the topic: Can you use "no homo" with your friends without being offensive? Sure, when used lightly and the intent behind it is clearly innocent... "JT is a pretty cool dude, he's got style... no homo." Because clearly, straight men can't be complimentary of other men. (rolls eyes) Should it be overused and meant to 'defend' from acting too sensitive because sensitivity is obviously aligned with homosexuality? No. That's just ignorance. In the grand scheme, it's just the continuous flow of urban speech colliding with the positive cultural/social evolution of society.
I'm off to go do some 'homo' things now... "no homo."
Cam'Ron on Hot 97
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