Goth Subculture: Colombia vs. Finland
A subculture is a group of people within a larger culture that differentiates itself through distinct behaviors, beliefs, and customs. These subcultures can vary significantly or subtly from country to country, influencing perceptions and interpretations of various aspects of life. This phenomenon is evident in many subcultures worldwide, including the Goth subculture, which exhibits both similarities and differences between Colombia and Finland. This report will delve into these distinctions and commonalities.
Origins and Characteristics of Goth Subculture
The Goth subculture originated in England during the early 1980s. It is characterized by an affinity for the dark, the morbid, and topics often considered too depressing by mainstream society. Today, this subculture has a global presence, but it is particularly prevalent in certain countries, especially those in Europe, such as Finland. However, it also has a notable presence in the Americas, including countries like Colombia. Despite its presence in both nations, the Goth subculture manifests differently in each.
Differences Between Colombian and Finnish Goths
Several key differences distinguish the Goth subculture in Colombia and Finland. Firstly, in Finland, this subculture is quite common, even in remote villages. Goths are almost popular enough to be considered part of the mainstream. In contrast, Goths are not as prevalent in Colombia. This disparity can be partly attributed to the atmosphere, which is a significant factor influencing the development of the Goth subculture in Finland. For instance, according to Jessica Wood, the cold weather in Finland often contributes to feelings of sadness and loneliness, which can resonate with Goth aesthetics.
Furthermore, the popularity of Goths in Finland is partly due to the broader age range of its members. It is entirely normal to encounter a 50-year-old Goth in Finland. In Colombia, however, the Goth subculture is predominantly composed of younger individuals, and finding an adult Goth is quite rare. The age of the members also affects the interpretation of their attire. For example, an adult wearing black clothing might be perceived differently than a young person wearing the same. In Colombia, the meaning of Goth attire is generally consistent regardless of age. However, not everything about the Goth subculture differs between these two countries; there are also notable similarities.
Similarities in Beliefs and Norms
Regarding similarities, certain aspects, such as religious beliefs and the norms for joining the subculture, are consistent in both countries. Firstly, Goths in both Colombia and Finland do not adhere to a specific set of religious beliefs. In other words, one does not need to believe in anything particular to be a Goth. Whether a member is Christian, Catholic, atheist, or belongs to any other religion, it does not affect their ability to join the Goth subculture. Secondly, Goths do not have strict norms for joining. This makes it relatively easy to become part of the Goth subculture in both countries. The primary requirement is to embrace the subculture’s likes, behaviors, and customs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Goth subculture is not identical in Colombia and Finland. There are notable differences, such as its mainstream popularity in Finland and the varying interpretations based on age. However, there are also similarities, such as the lack of specific religious requirements and the ease of joining the subculture. It is recommended that Goths stay informed about their subculture in different parts of the world. This can help them enhance their understanding and potentially adopt new ideas to enrich their community.