There's been a noticeable shift in storytelling lately, particularly in the portrayal of heroes and villains. As content creators and consumers, we've likely observed this change in narrative tone.

A recent conversation with a friend, who shared an "inspirational" video, sparked this reflection. The video, with its emotive music and motivational narration, suggested that surviving hardship makes one a hero.

This perspective highlights a fascinating trend: the blurring of lines between hero and villain. In literature and storytelling, these archetypes often represent the duality of human experience. The "hero" embodies self-idealization, while the "villain" reflects the complexities and challenges of reality.

The concept of "needing a hero" often stems from a desire for an idealized outcome, a manifestation of personal expectations. This explains the surge in the "hero within" narrative. Conversely, the "villain" represents the projected negativity and hardship of real life, fuelling the "villain era" trend.

If we examine classic literary heroes, we often find they are not inherently heroic. Their perceived heroism is often a product of carefully constructed narratives, a form of successful branding.

Villains, on the other hand, are often self-made brands, sometimes adopted by larger entities. However, we must remember that organizations, whether "good" or "bad," are composed of individuals with shared goals.

Ultimately, the distinction between hero and villain is largely metaphorical. One represents an idealized concept, while the other embodies the often-harsh realities of the world. This shift in narrative reflects our evolving understanding of these archetypes and their role in our lives.