The cartoon, Steven Universe, makes a compelling case for a post-work society. In a solemn scene, Peedee and Steven Universe discuss their theories of work while riding a mechanical seahorse and jellyfish (Season 1, Episode 5, “Frybo”). In a moment of utter brilliance, Peedee says, “Cash can’t buy back what the job takes, not if you rode every seahorse in the world.” The half-Crystal Gem half-human Steven Universe explains that he works to bring smiles to Beach City residents’ faces. The distinguishing factor for the two characters is between non-waged and waged labor, and Peedee, like most US citizens, understands work as waged labor, being compensated (often unfairly) by one’s time and effort. In addition, Steven Universe recognizes an underdeveloped theory of post-work. With the help of revolutionary post-work theorists, Kathi Weeks (The Problem with Work) and Silvia Federici (Revolution at Point Zero), I will explore the theme of work throughout Steven Universe. My proposal reveals that Steve Universe and the Crystal Gems demonstrate a post-work society: one where work is done for one’s community rather than a business’ profit, one’s labor is intrinsic to one’s selfhood, and, lastly, one is compensated not through money but rather leisure, friendships, and potentially living off the land. Steven Universe demonstrates these themes through Steven and the Crystal Gems keeping the Beach City safe as well as Steven’s various encounters with the boardwalk shops and his friends at Beach City.
About the presenterTimothy Wotring
Timothy lives in Philadelphia where he works as the Program Coordinator for a homeless youth shelter, mentoring and tutoring high schoolers. He holds an M.Div from Union Theological Seminary in New York City.