Ranting Dragon’s Favorite Guilty Pleasure

In these introductions, I usually write something about how we can all relate to the subject, and how most of us have our own favorites. While this is probably true for guilty pleasures, it is apparently not a given to have a guilty pleasure. Some of our staff members would argue that there is no such thing as a guilty pleasure. Perhaps some pleasures are simply guilty because we care too much about what others think.

Whatever the truth is, many people do have pleasures they would rather not tell others about. Four of our staff members have similar things. Today, they are fessing up. We promise, no members will be kicked off the team for anything written in this article. Probably.

Without further ado, here are four guilty pleasures and… Santa:

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			Star Wars Prequel Films	By Garrett
			The Star Wars prequel movies are my guilty pleasure. I saw The Phantom Menace when I was eight and loved every minute of it. I even loved Jar Jar.  There’s just something about all the pretty flash and bang of the action in these movies that still appeals to me. (Don’t get me wrong, I’ll take the original trilogy every time, but the fights in Episode III were freaking BRILLIANT.)
			The Black Jewels by Anne Bishop	By Michelle
			I save The Black Jewels for whenever I need a change of pace from long, intricate epics. I’m not particularly ashamed of the fact, but there are a number of reasons they might count as a guilty pleasure. First off is the unabashed sensuality and sexual content. I mean, lets face it, some of it is pretty kinky, i.e. a realm full of male pleasure slaves. There’s also the fact that despite being dark, they are relatively easy reads. They are about as close to romance as I get and contain plenty of magic, talking animals, unbelievably evil villains, and nearly every single male protagonist is ridiculously sexy.
			No Such Thing	By Dan
			There is no such thing as a guilty pleasure. If you take pleasure in it, it should be a pleasure and you should own it. Feeling bad about feeling good about something just means you’re thinking about it the wrong way. Most people use this phrase in reference to something they like, but that they feel they would otherwise deride for being of low quality or value. You’re allowed to enjoy something that is designed for light consumption.
			The Twilight Saga	By Caitrin
			I love The Twilight Saga by Stephanie Meyer. I think Dan is right, but I can’t help but feel guilty for loving something when I know so many hate and love to dog on people who love it. Fans who are crazy make a bad name for those of us fans who are only slightly crazy. But yes, as I’ll tell anyone who wants to bash on me for loving Twilight, what does it matter to you what I love or enjoy? Am I forcing you to read it or watch the movies? This is my life and I’m allowed to enjoy it the way I want; you can keep your opinions to yourself on the subject.
			My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	By Rebecca
			This cutesy fantasy show, originally intended for little girls, has warmed the hearts of more mature fans of both genders. The message of friendship, though presented with bright colors and cheerful songs, applies to people of all ages. The characters are vibrantly unique, though slightly cliched, and the plots aren’t ridiculously simple or childish, despite the simple presentation.

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What’s your favorite guilty pleasure? Do guilty pleasures even exist, or do you agree with Dan? Let us know in the comments below!

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