If there’s one thing I’ve learned from a life spent online, it’s that existential dread can sneak up on you from the most unexpected places. And what could be more unexpected than questioning the fate of humanity through the lens of the Big Light? Yes, I mean the main ceiling light—the one you instinctively reach for when you walk into a room. According to TikTok, people everywhere are rallying against it. Videos urging viewers to never use the Big Light, claiming it’s a dating red flag, are racking up millions of views. It’s left me wondering: is nothing sacred anymore?
I’ll admit, defending the Big Light has become something of a personal crusade for me. My husband is all about lamps and “mood lighting.” But if I can’t read a clothing tag or find a lost contact lens because it’s too dim, the only mood I’m in is furious. I don’t want to scramble around turning on five different lamps just to get the same amount of light the Big Light gives in one click. Even among our friends, opinions are shifting—one has started spreading Big Light myths, saying, “They’re always harsh blue beams that make you feel like you’re under interrogation.”
As the anti-Big Light bandwagon gains speed, let me be the voice of reason: the Big Light is good. We’d miss it if it were gone. Sure, it has its flaws, but it’s practical, affordable, and fair—it lights up the whole room for everyone, no matter where they are. Do we really have to get rid of it? Why not work with it instead? Add some lamps to soften the effect, improve the lighting, and maybe even improve ourselves in the process.
Lately, I find myself making this kind of argument a lot—whether I’m talking about the BBC and the license fee, the UN, or yes, the Big Light. Like I said, existential dread really can come from the strangest places…
Coco Khan is a freelance writer and co-host of the politics podcast Pod Save the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the topic framed around the humorous and relatable conflict presented in Coco Khans article
General Beginner Questions
Q What is The Big Light
A Its a casual term for the main often harsh overhead ceiling light in a room Its the one switch you hit when you first walk in
Q Whats the article My husband is a lighting expert but Ill always stand by the Big Light about
A Its a humorous personal essay about the authors love for the simple allilluminating overhead light despite her husbands professional expertise in creating more sophisticated layered lighting schemes
Q Why do lighting experts hate the Big Light
A They argue it creates harsh shadows unflattering light and a single brightness level that doesnt adapt to different moods or activities making a space feel sterile and unwelcoming
Q What is layered lighting
A Its the expertrecommended approach of using multiple light sources at different levels to create a more comfortable functional and atmospheric room
Benefits Comparisons
Q What are the benefits of using the Big Light
A Its main benefits are simplicity and efficiency Its instant lights up the entire room evenly for tasks like cleaning or finding a lost earring and requires no extra furniture or thought
Q What are the benefits of layered lighting
A It allows you to control the mood and function of a room You can create cozy pools of light for reading bright light for working and ambient light for relaxingall while being more flattering and reducing eye strain
Q Is one approach right and the other wrong
A Not really The articles charm is in this debate The right light is what makes you feel happy and comfortable in your own home Its about personal preference
Common Problems Solutions
Q I want to try layered lighting but it seems expensive and complicated Any tips
