When you think of the term punk as it applies to individuals, what jumps to mind?
For someone with a love for the punk scene, words such as unity, music and rebellion may be high on the list. For others who don't have any association with the culture besides what they see on television, in movies and via the Internet, phrases such as menace to society or delinquent are most likely the first thoughts.
Because of labels, clothing choices and music, punk kids intimidate a lot of people. I could not count the number of times I have had people admit later that they used to be too intimidated to talk to me.
Yes, in every scene there are empty people who share their dissatisfaction for life by being arrogant and rude; you will not always be successful in meeting the truly beautiful people.
However, when you pass people by just because of how they look or what they listen to, you are giving up the opportunity to meet people who are interesting, have great talent, incredible back stories and a lot of passion.
The majority of those people are not who you think they are. A lot of people I have gotten to know - even just in the Athens scene - have continuously surprised me. I once had a deep conversation with a guy who sported multiple piercings, a beard and was about five times my size about girl problems.
There are a lot of humorous stories involving punk stereotyping to share, but there is one serious, prominent one that made me realize how big of an issue it can be.
One Spring Quarter night, my friends and I decided to go see a band that was playing in Kentucky. When we got to the venue, I nervously started making conversation with the people around me.
Behind me stood a young man; he wasn't out of the ordinary for someone at a punk show. Equipped with a Dead Kennedys shirt and a lot of strong opinions about politics, we laughed as he explained the tattoos in his sleeves. When asked what he did for a living, his smile faded as he replied, I am a soldier. I am getting deployed tomorrow morning overseas.
A wave of shock swept over me. I instantly questioned that if someone who is used to this scene threw him into the typical category, what would people on the street think?
Don't let tattoos, piercings, loud music and rough looking people scare you away. You never really know whom you will meet and what their different outlook on life can offer your own.
Go to a show here in Athens, have a good time, talk to people and let them surprise you.
Merri is a sophomore studying journalism and a columnist for The Post. Don't know about any punk shows in Athens? E-mail Merri at mc112609@ohiou.edu.
4 Opinion
Merri Collins
