In this conversation, Edmond Lau, a cultural strategist and designer known for his 'luxury memes,' shares insights on the 'dark mode shift'—a term he coined to illustrate societal transitions in digital interaction and emotional complexity. He discusses the evolution of LinkedIn as a networking tool, blending authenticity and technology. Edmond also critiques how the definition of luxury has changed, especially in relation to personal taste and societal values. His unique cultural perspectives from observing New York add depth to the discussion of modern identity.
Edmond Lau's concept of 'dark mode shift' highlights a cultural reckoning where societal progress regresses amid new emotional realities.
The discussion on LinkedIn reveals its duality as both a vital career tool and a source of frustration for modern professionals.
Lau's perspective on luxury illustrates its evolution from status signaling to a more nuanced understanding linked to identity and culture.
Deep dives
Edmund Lau's Viral Luxury Memes
Edmund Lau is known for creating luxury memes that resonate widely across platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. His meme about the 'dark mode shift' gained significant traction, especially on LinkedIn, where it received nearly a thousand likes, highlighting the platform's unique engagement dynamics. These memes serve as cultural commentary, reflecting trends and shifting attitudes within society. Lau's work bridges the intersection of culture, fashion, and technology, indicating how memes can influence discussions about contemporary issues.
Navigating LinkedIn: A Love-Hate Relationship
The discussion highlights the complex dynamic people have with LinkedIn, often seen as both necessary and cringe-worthy. One co-host shares her initial reluctance to join LinkedIn, only to find it instrumental in advancing her career, demonstrating its dual nature as both a professional tool and a source of frustration. The conversation touches on the use of AI in networking, where individuals engage in seemingly organic connections that often feel disingenuous. This reflection on LinkedIn encapsulates the challenges of authentic communication in the digital age.
The Idea of Dark Mode Shift
The 'dark mode shift' concept proposes a cultural reckoning where people confront a regression in societal progress, marking a departure from previous eras of optimism. Lau suggests that this shift is reflected in people's emotional responses, ranging from anger to nihilism, catalyzed by a collective grappling with new realities. The notion parallels the cultural shifts witnessed in both personal lives and broader societal contexts, illustrating a period of adjustment to unsettling changes. This framework encourages deeper reflection on how current movements in society shape personal and collective identities.
The Role of Grief in Cultural Transition
The conversation explores the theme of ambiguous grief, particularly in the context of sociopolitical changes that are difficult to define or comprehend. Individuals may experience a sense of loss without a clear endpoint, leading to feelings of frustration and confusion about the future. This phenomenon resonates with the current political landscape, where uncertainty breeds a complex emotional response. By acknowledging these layers of grief, the discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding how personal experiences intertwine with larger societal narratives.
Luxury as Status Signaling
Lau identifies luxury as a concept intertwined with status signaling, where the consumption of high-quality and exclusive items reflects social standing. This view is anchored in historical interpretations, suggesting that luxury has always been about demonstrating abundance and exclusivity. However, the definition of what constitutes luxury continues to evolve, influenced by cultural trends and societal values. The conversation highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of luxury beyond mere materialism, considering its implications for personal and collective identity.
This week Daisy and Francis are joined by cultural strategist, designer and art director, Edmond Lau. Edmond is known for his "luxury memes" and his recent coining of the term "dark mode shift".
