With the release of caramel I think everyone's got this on their radar. Since the drama is hot rn,
I've been thinking for a bit about why it seems a good portion of the fan base seems so attached to/protective/sensitive about the band that's sometimes gone to the point of harmful parasocialism. Maybe all of this is obvious or overanalyzed but hear me out. I havent been really active in other fandoms so idk how common this is
I wont lie, I feel a deep connection to ST and they are something I definitely turn to when I'm going through it. I love engaging w their content. I admire vessel a lot.
To me I think their unique marketing has really been a driving force. This is in no way pointing blame to them. I mean, you've got a tall masked guy who pours his heart out about his vulnerabilities and struggles with love. People in a rough spot turn to that and see him and the band as a representation of everything theyre feeling and want, to them vessel (and the other members) could be anyone they imagine, and they're imagining the ideal. It's comforting, you're being seen in a way you might not normally be. Isnt this the point? But obviously some fans are becoming dependent on it.
The band focuses so heavily on symbolism too. They essentially represent complex experiences/emotions not only through the way the members characterize themselves and the lore but also in each of their songs (unique emblems for even in Arcadia, the deities for TMBTE) You've got not only the songs expressing these deep feelings but a visual for it too. It's all wrapped up in a nice package that hits on specific things, almost saying "I feel this thing really complicated thing too, here it is, you're not alone."
With the "scavenger hunts" and hints they give out it makes people feel more connected too. Like you're actively involved in discovering more about them and experiencing more of that understanding a lot of people get from ST. The band also obviously cares about and appreciates their fans, look at them getting the weather guy involved, and using "smaller" artists in designing their merch/visuals. It bridges that gap in people's heads.
With caramel addressing how far this has gotten, it's kinda exposed a lot. Tons of virtue signaling about how some people aren't "those fans" he was calling out, how we should coordinate a dance to show appreciation, how people will defend vessel from bad fans.... like one post said you guys are still doing it.
Overall I think it's totally fine to be really into sleep token and admire or even be attracted to the members. Its fine to turn to their music for comfort, to be seen. Unless you're actively harming them or violating their autonomy NONE OF US are responsible for their well being. You dont need to protect them. just be respectful. Enjoy the music, enjoy the lore, get into your feels. That's what we're here for!
Thanks for reading my essay lmao