GOTH SUBCULTURE
Goth subculture came into existence during the early 1980s. It is not a group of people who have a set of different beliefs, but, it is a form of subculture that rose in the west. Its origins can be traced back to punk genre of music that gave rise to this subculture. Though, there are debates regarding this too. Some believe that Gothic subculture was present even during the 18th century when Gothic literature was first written by Horace Walpole. Whereas, some believe that the subculture is a reflection of gothic music.
For a layman, Goth culture is associated with too much of the colour black and tattoos. But, it is a lot more than just love for a colour. It is not something that can be described in a few lines; different people attach different meanings to it and associate with it differently. Goth people like dark things, be it music, people, art, dressing or anything in the course of their life. Most Goths prefer dark clothes, white makeup, macabre, apocalyptic music, unusual accessories, dyed hair, black boots, and black nail polish. Dressing is one of the most key features in this subculture, although not all Goths wear dark clothes and have the same outlook. Dressing the way they do is considered so important because it is a way through which they can express their desires to the outside world. Very often, Goth people are misunderstood as being violent and satanic. Various mainstream books, shows and movies have often misrepresented this community; Emo, punk, metal heads are not Goths. Another misconception people have is that Goth is limited to certain areas, but, this subculture is not limited but has a global presence in certain pockets of the world. There are certain festivals in Germany that celebrate Goth subculture. There are also different kinds of Gothic Styles- Romantic, Medieval, Cyber Goth, Fetish Goth, Gothic Lolita and many more.
Goth subculture is not just about making a fashion statement or loving dark things. It is about being different from the crowd, being who you want to be, finding joy in things that may not be liked by all. It is a state of mind and soul that remains throughout one’s life. It is important that we acknowledge this fact and not discriminate with this subculture and its people.
