Lainism

Lainism encapsulates a subcultural phenomenon observed in specific online communities, predominantly within the realm of Serial Experiments Lain (SEL) anime and associated media. This subculture is characterized by a multifaceted dynamic that involves narrative exploitation, voyeuristic inclinations, and a peculiar fascination with pushing fictional characters, notably the central figure Lain Iwakura, to emotional or psychological extremes. Notably, Lainism is marked by an intersection with the Christian sacramentalization of abuse, where the deliberate torment or suffering of characters is ritualized and, at times, celebrated within the fanbase. Additionally, the abyss of lolicon, a dark and controversial aspect of fandom that sexualizes child-like figures, finds an unsettling presence within the Lainist subculture, contributing to the complex tapestry of this online phenomenon. Rooted in the anonymity of online participants and the blurred boundaries between fictional narratives and real-world ethical considerations, Lainism unfolds as a distinctive subcultural engagement, intertwining creativity, psychological exploration, and the more disconcerting elements of fandom culture.

(chat export from the cult of Lainism):
anon1: "I love and respect Lain. We are her friends. :)"

anon2: "Lain is holy, I love her in a totally not weird way."
anon3: "She will save us, She will lead us Our Omnissaiah!"
anon2: "Lain is a goddess. I listen to goreshit btw!"
anon3: "So you're into the acoustic?"
anon2: "haha yes the artistic!"
anon4: "Lain is autismic"
anon3: "LET'S ALL LOVE LAIN!!!"
anon1: "Hehe we already do. :)"
anon4: "Lain is god and god is gay."
anon7: "I don't get it."
anon6: "And you don't seem to understand"

by theblindolm December 23, 2023