To Quash a Harmful Trope, Use It

How one comedian embraces clichés to nullify them.

Tropes are tricky. They can help ground a story because of our shared reality but can simultaneously further dangerous and hurtful stereotypes. They can also frustrate readers who spot overused character traits or plot lines from miles away.

So, how can artists use tropes in their work? Before I get into it, let’s define what a trope is.

“All tropes are, …