Where does Boing Boing get off calling Lenore emo?
It was bad enough when they were calling everything either black or involving skulls goth, that was a bit excessive and usually inaccurate, but not overtly offensive, as I like goth, and think skulls are cool. Now, though, they are applying this whiny MTV hipster crap to things that don’t deserve such abuse (things, though not in themselves goth, definitely associated more with the goth subculture than the emo subculture if only for historical reasons).
I bet they aren’t even aware of any difference between the two things, and just think emo is the new hipster goth. Since I know someone will ask me what the difference is, here are some differences between the two cultures (note: this is the Cliff’s Notes version, for the bigger picture you’ll have to look into it yourself):
Emo
- Associated with emotional hardcore.
- Note in the image to the right the stereotypical emo look. Of particular interest is the hair that covers nearly half the face and one eye entirely and the too-tight clothing. Also popular are Buddy Holly style glasses, collared shirts, and sweaters.
- It’s “cool” to be depressed and suicidal.
- Things associated with the subculture are stereotypically whiny and often have something to do with being unappreciated and having your girlfriend dump you, removing your purpose for living.
Goth
- Associated primarily with gothic rock, but nowadays also with industrial music.
- Note in the image of Siouxsie to the right the classic goth look. Of particular interest is the black clothing, heavy use of eye makeup, backcombed hair, fishnet, and pointy boots.
- It’s “cool” to be sardonic and pretentious.
- Things associated with the subculture are stereotypically dark and often have something to do with horror or occult imagery.
Oh, yeah: my Roman Dirge can beat up your Cory Doctorow.
