Reading Between the Lines: A Case Study of Zebra Katz

Price of event: Order food in restaurant

Explore the art of “reading” in voguing and queer culture through Zebra Katz’s provocative track “Ima Read.” This Socratic-style discussion will examine how reading reveals identity, subverts social norms, and mirrors the dynamics of high school social life, all while connecting to media representations in shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race or Euphoria.
A. Philosophical Reading

• Prompt: “Is reading a form of ethical critique or a social weapon? When does insight cross into cruelty?”
• Reflection: Compare to Plato’s idea of self-knowledge and Nietzsche’s ideas of masks and identity.

B. Queer Reading of a Person

• Prompt: “How does the queer practice of reading subvert dominant social norms?”
• Discuss how reading is an act of empowerment, reclaiming space through humor and wit.

C. High School Dynamics

• Prompt: “High school is full of implicit readings—gossip, teasing, and social hierarchy. How does learning to read others teach resilience or social intelligence?”
• Encourage participants to share experiences (optional, anonymous reflection style).

1. Reading is both art and insight: it blends critique, humor, and social awareness.
2. Queer reading challenges norms and celebrates authenticity.
3. High school experiences mirror the performative dynamics seen in media.
4. Reflection on reading can enhance understanding of identity, ethics, and self-awareness.