What Does This Mean?
The principle that an implausible or illogical choice in fiction is acceptable, or even preferable, if it looks striking, stylish or awesome. It is invoked to excuse dropping realism for spectacle.
REAL-WORLD EXAMPLE
""Nobody asked how the swordfighter keeps a coat that long clean; it is just rule of cool.""
LORE & ORIGIN
Wiktionary defines it as the principle that you can do, use or wear nearly anything as long as it looks striking or stylish, and cites a 2024 SCP Foundation story. The page gives no etymology, and no dated first use or originating community is documented here. It is commonly discussed alongside lampshading, since a work may admit the implausibility while still prioritising style.
MENTIONS OVER TIME
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