Looking Back: Another World Goth Day Introspection

It's funny how much things can change within a year. I recently looked at last year's World Goth Day post and was surprised at how much my perspective has changed since then.

I previously stated that I wasn't sure if I was going to remain Goth or not, and that honestly surprised me as I read my entry again. I totally understand that life is completely unpredictable, and even the most stringent individuals can change due to circumstance, but presently I don't believe that I will leave the subculture--I enjoy delving into the many classic and modern bands that have helped and continue to help shape the culture to its present day. I am continuing to slowly shape my wardrobe into a mix of trad/deathrock/romantic styles. I continue to fall in love with the aesthetics and literature, collecting Gothic novels and black lace and velvet with a childlike enthusiasm. My fascination for morbid things has even lead to a growing passion for vulture culture in the past few years. Cliched as it is, I truly feel home in this culture, and rather than distancing myself, I've become more immersed in it since discovering it in my adolescent years.

Despite my change in perspective, I still agree with certain points of my post. I still believe that Goth is a beautiful culture that has opened me up to the darker aspects of the human condition. Researching the subculture is one of my favorite hobbies--in fact, I have slowly amassed a collection of books about Goth history and its vibrant culture. Despite my fondness, I still want to discuss the culture's flaws as I am opposed to blind praise of anything I enjoy or consider myself apart of.

This past year has lead to me unearthing so many wonderful aspects of the culture, allowing me to feel like I am rediscovering it for the first time. I can hardly wait to see what else awaits me as I continue to wander deeper into the welcoming shadows of Goth, donned in black clothing and dark makeup.

Similar to last year, I have created a World Goth Day playlist. I tried to add different genres as well as some lesser known songs because while I do enjoy "Bela Lugosi's Dead" and "Spellbound", I feel there are so many other musical gems that unfortunately have been ignored in favor of the more recognizable songs.


The playlist can also be accessed here in case it doesn't load.

Track Listing:

The Southern Death Cult - The Crypt

Gene Loves Jezebel - Upstairs

Joy Division - Interzone

Eyes of the Nightmare Jungle - Shadow Dance

Meat of Youth - Meat of Youth

Killing Joke - Eighties

The Naked and the Dead - Carousel

Clan of Xymox - Stranger

Eyes of God - East of Eden

Euroshima - Esfumados Suenos

Drab Majesty - Too Soon to Tell

Winter Severity Index - Athlete

Soft Kill - Wake Up

I am still working on more posts for this blog; computer issues have unfortunately delayed my progress so I apologize. I hope to have more content up soon so again, thank you for your patience and have a wonderful World Goth Day.

Featurette II

Life has a strange fascination with throwing unpredictable events without warning. Because of this, I’ve been away from writing posts to take some time to recover from illness and other time-consuming situations. During this time I’ve been exploring the Internet for interesting blogs of note, and I would like to share a few of these with you, lovely readers:

• Dark Side University: As quoted from the site, “Dark Side University is a goth community offering free classes on gothic, horror, vampiric, and Halloween courses.” Some of the previous courses included “Bats, Gentle Creatures of the Night”, “Gothic Cathedrals”, “The History of Halloween”, and “The Amityville Horror”. The coursework can be rather heavy, so I would suggest only taking classes if your schedule permits. That being said, the community is very warm and friendly, and I have discovered many interesting media through taking these courses. This site is highly recommended for the intellectually curious.
• Plagues & Epidemics: Lately I’ve been interested in early medical practices and epidemics. This site has served as the starting point for my research. The site features articles, artwork, old photos, and many other fascinating relics of the past. Such examples include these disturbing Plague Drawings by Clint Brown, information about Hans Holbein’s Alphabet of Death, and links to other interesting blogs, such as The Oddment Emporium. Sadly, the site hasn’t been updated since April 30, 2014, but I would recommend this site, in addition to Dark Side University, to those interested in uncovering the morbid history of early medical science.
• Drac Makens: I discovered Drac Makens’ channel while searching for other Goth YouTubers a few months ago, and I’ve been a subscriber ever since. Drac’s makeup ideas are absolutely gorgeous and creative; I’ve been inspired to stretch my cosmetic creativity thanks to her videos (I hope to recreate these four incredible looks in the future, for example). I also enjoy watching her speed painting videos, such as her painting "Higher Love" and her sandworm wall mount.
• SpookyLoop: I don’t have a Tumblr, but I’ve found many interesting Goth and macabre blogs after poking around on the site, including the aforementioned Plagues and Epidemics. SpookyLoop is another example. Each page of this blog is graced with beautiful images, lovely gifs, and fantastic musical recommendations. Anna, the owner of the blog, is a very sweet individual and an extremely talented artist and milliner. I would also recommend her millinery blog; her designs are absolutely gorgeous.

I hope you enjoy visiting these sites as I have, and I hope to return to blogging as soon as possible.

World Goth Day Introspection

Edit: When I originally posted this on May 22nd, I forgot to add a couple of sentences to my post. Sorry about that! 

 One of the things I really love about World Goth Day is that it has given me time to reflect on the role Goth has had in my life. I remember writing this a long time ago on the backwaters of the Internet, and reading The HouseCat’s post on what Goth means to her made me think that perhaps it’s time I gather my thoughts and revisit this topic once more.

 I can definitely say that being Goth has offered me a different perspective on life and allowed me to explore darker emotions and aspects of the human condition, as cliché as it is. I used to go on cemetery walks as a way to “take a break” from society. I would take in the beauty of the tombstones and enjoy the solemn atmosphere as the strains of Big Electric Cat emitted from my earbuds. Each time I left, I was humbled by the realization that everything in life is temporary. I appreciate being able to share my perspectives with other like-minded individuals without being seen as a “freak”. It was also nice to hear musicians who wrote about pains and struggles and to not feel that I was alone in my emotions. Songs like “Other Voices”, “Transience”, and “Summoning of the Muse” are so beautiful because of the emotions they evoke. Since then I’ve been able to express myself through writing and art, and I feel encouraged knowing that there are others with the same outlook as me.

I also found Goth different because it really seemed to encourage learning and exploration. There’s a lot of rich history of the subculture, and many years later, I still feel like an excited young child when I stumble upon something I don’t know. While I feel like my knowledge of the culture has vastly increased since my teenage years, there are still so many bands to listen to, so many books to read, and so many interesting influences on Goth to uncover.

That being said, I still think there are some things in the culture that need discussion. I do hope, for example, to touch on the subject of Goth and race some point in the future. I also want to continue writing about the Goth label and elitism. I think it’s important to be aware of the flaws in the cultures we take part in; this allows for a realistic perspective and for us to work to make them better.

Overall, this is a lovely and rich culture that I am very glad to be a part of. I don’t know if I will remain a Goth forever, as there are many things I claimed to be permanently rooted in but changed due to circumstances. If that were to happen, I would look back on my years in the culture with fondness. As for now, I am happy to make this culture my home.

With my wistful thoughts out of the way, I wanted to create a playlist of dark, danceable songs that have really spoken to me throughout my years in the subculture.




The playlist can also be accessed here in case it doesn't load.

Track Listing:

Bauhaus - Bela Lugosi's Dead

Joy Division - Shadowplay

Siouxsie and the Banshees - Spellbound

UK Decay - Unexpected Guest

Sexbeat - Sexbeat

Killing Joke - Darkness Before Dawn

The Danse Society - Heaven is Waiting

The Cure - The Hanging Garden

Death Cult - God's Zoo

Clan of Xymox - Back Door

Xmal Deutschland - Qual

Das Kabinette - The Cabinet

The Sisters of Mercy - Marian

The Frozen Autumn - Is Everything Real?

Corpus Delicti - Staring

Lotus Feed - Supervision

Children on Stun - Cat's or Devil's Eyes

Siiiii- Over

She Past Away - Rituel

Geometric Vision - Stranger

 I hope you enjoy!

"I'm Goth, But..."

For the longest time, I’ve wanted to introduce a multi-part series discussing the controversy regarding the label of Goth. This is something that both fascinates and puzzles me, as one of the biggest criticisms I’ve seen of the Goth subculture is that the label is limiting—that being Goth prevents you from liking or engaging in other activities or subcultures that don’t fit the approved label.

To be honest, I’m not sure where this assumption comes from, as labels are used as a shorthand. The Lady of the Manners has said in her book Gothic Charm School that “[l]abels are useful because they express a whole bundle of information in a compact little package. Labels can be explained and expanded upon, if need be, to communicate all nuances and quirks of personality, but sometimes brevity is a splendid thing” (Venters 107).

While I understand those who declare that the Goth label is limiting, I must point out that labels, in general, are inherently limiting. A label is comprised of particular traits. If an object does not possess those traits, then the object does not fit under that label. When a person describes themselves as an Atheist, for example, they are both labeling themselves and implying that certain traits of other groups do not apply to them. If an Atheist believes in a god, they are no longer an Atheist. If the label lacks restrictions, it ceases to have meaning.

In addition, I must add that if you feel you are forced into listening to a certain type of music, dressing a certain way, or declaring certain interests for reasons other than genuine enjoyment, I would highly suggest an honest assessment of whether or not the Goth subculture is right for you. This isn’t a statement meant to keep new Goths out; I’m stating that Goth should be fun, not an unbearable burden you’re forced to carry. You do not have to adopt the Goth label. You don’t have to be Goth. Goth is not a declaration of status or popularity; it is merely a subculture driven by a music scene from the late 1970s-early 80s with a dark, dramatic, and macabre aesthetic originating from the 19th century literature and horror imagery.

Personally, I do not feel limited by the “Goth” label. While Goth is a very important part of my life, it is still just a part; it does not fully define me, as there are too many facets to my personality and interests for the label to cover. Being Goth doesn’t prevent me from liking Max Fleischer-styled cartoons, tabletop RPGs, and adorable brands like Sentimental Circus or Rilakkuma.

However, I do understand the pressure and confusion when being presented with certain assholes who declare that doing something the least bit “Goth” earns the dreaded declaration of “poseur”, a subject I would like to discuss at a later date. Some Goths use the “real Goth” and “poseur” terms to exclude others from participating in the scene. These people are not important and should not prevent you from engaging in activities you enjoy. Please, do not try to please these people; they are not worth your time. Of course, if you do not fit under the “Goth” label, that isn’t a bad thing, nor does it mean that you are a shallow or uninteresting person; it simply means that you don’t fit under the “Goth” label.

I found this YouTube video by The Gothic Alice, and I think it is an interesting perspective on this issue. (The video can be watched here if it does not load.)

How do you feel about this issue? Do you agree with The Gothic Alice? Do you think that there is an unspoken rule on what Goths can and can’t like? Are there any “non-Goth” things you enjoy?


Sources Cited:

TheGothicAlice. “Goth Yes or No?”. Online video clip. YouTube, 7 August 2015. 12 January
   2016. (link)

Venters, Jillian. Gothic Charm School: An Essential Guide for Goths and Those who Love 
   Them. New York: HarperCollins, 2009.

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Some Web Updates, and Introducing Featurette I

The holidays are quickly approaching, and along with colder temperatures, darker months, and a Full Moon on Christmas comes the accompaniment of holiday stress. So while I do have new posts coming up in the New Year, in the interim I wanted to announce some updates to the site: 

First, I added links next to the cited sources in my previous posts. I hope this is helpful to anyone who wishes to view the original articles I referenced. 

Second, I am introducing a series, titled Featurette, in which I showcase interesting media that I happened to stumble on or was enthralled by. Here are five sites that I’ve been currently frequenting: 

VonMonsta: While stumbling around on the Internet, I came across a site run by the lovely Naomi von Monsta. It is a beautiful site filled with amazing outfit photos, enchanting artwork of fairytales and folklore, DIY posts, recipes, and so much more. I enjoy reading about her myriad adventures in the lush hillside and finding aesthetic inspiration. 

Black Widow Sanctuary: Black Widow Sanctuary is another gorgeous blog run by Hukutettu Nukke, serving as another great source of outfit and DIY inspiration. I found this blog when she posted an outfit inspired by Naomi von Monsta; I find it interesting how, with the innovation of the Internet, we are able to be connected across the many miles of continents and countries. This is a fun blog to read, and I definitely recommend it. 

Take a Bite: This webzine, which was unknown to me as an angsty teenager, is a faint but interesting look at Goth in the earlier days of the Internet. While the site is very simplistic compared to modern day Goth webpages, The Net.Goth Handbook is an example of the glow of the sharp wit characteristic to Goths glowing through the austere text and design. Sadly, there are only two issues of Take a Bite, but they are both intriguing and humorous. While some of the pages sadly no longer function, I would also suggest checking out other articles on Vamp.org, such as the discographies of Bauhaus, an amusing Guide to Napalming, and the hilarious alt.gothic.FAQ that I have linked to through my resources page. 

Skin Artists: I hope to get a tattoo and a piercing someday, and I often visit Skin Artists for information on piercings and tattoos, interviews about different artists and look for inspiration for that first inked image to cover a piece of skin. I’ve read quite a few articles and find them very intriguing, and the art is breathtaking to look at. 

Ethical Scavenger: Despite the inherent morbidity involved in collecting and cleaning bones, I find the cracks and surfaces of animal skulls mysteriously beautiful, but I completely object to killing animals for the mere reason of adding to one’s own personal collection. I love this site because it is a great resource for those who want to build a collection of bones and other oddities, but with an ethical respect for an animal’s habitat. The site features information on laws regarding collecting items such as bird feathers and parts from animals that died from natural causes (however, these laws only apply to those who live in the US), a step-by-step guide on collecting and whitening bones, resources on identifying skulls, and guides on dry and wet preservation. Additionally, there are lovely photos of bones and taxidermy that serve as great inspiration for my décor. I highly recommend this site to anyone who adores morbid curiosities and would love to surround themselves in an environment of oddities. 

I hope these websites are both informative and entertaining, and once I create some semblance of a schedule, I would like to periodically write Featurette posts. Thank you to those who have visited and followed my blog, and have a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all. 

Aural Tendencies: Big Electric Cat, with an Addendum on Blog Changes

Oh, technology, you never cease to amaze me. Shortly after I celebrated my return to blogging, I began to deal with a number of computer issues, which resulted in months of trying to replace my broken computer. This, along with other things, contributed to a very long absence.

My long absence aside, let’s talk Goth music. Goth music can be an acquired taste for some and may require some getting used to. Some bands may sound too harsh and grating, while others may feature bands with high-pitched voices that new listeners may be unaccustomed to, such as The Sex Gang Children. For first time listeners seeking exposure to Goth music, I recommend checking out Big Electric Cat (BEC) which was a very important gateway band that introduced me to the subculture as a gloomy, angst-ridden teenager. Intrigued and amused by their name, I listened to “Black Water” and instantly fell in love with the track’s dark, throbbing beats. Now as an adult, Big Electric Cat is one of my favorite bands of all time, with Eyelash being my favorite album by far.

Big Electric Cat was formed in 1993 with Paul Sadler, David Block, and Deborah Denton. The band name was inspired by the novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?. Adding to the lineup was the drum machine, Dr. Ruth, named after a famous sex therapist (Bruce). This seems to be in a similar vein to The Sisters of Mercy’s Dr. Avalanche and The Merry Thoughts’ Thoughtmachine. In Peter Marks’s interview with Paul Sadler, the guitarist and lead vocalist, it seems the moniker was a backhand to The Sisters of Mercy. Sadler responds, “…[a]ll these gothic bands name their drum machines something. And Dr. Avalanche has been around for a few years, so we thought we would just twist that a little bit”(Marks). 
 

In 1989, Sadler moved from the UK to Sydney, Australia, as he believed it allowed for a healthier musical atmosphere. The band’s music was intended to confront the darker aspects of the human condition, like sadness, and was influenced by a variety of sources, such as music from Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner, “an appreciation of deep feelings and emotions, and a belief in love transcending death” (“iTunes Preview”).  

After putting out a self-financed EP called Suspiria, which resulted in a three-album contract with Cleopatra  Records, Big Electric Cat debuted with Dreams of a Mad King in 1994, reworking four of the tracks that appear in the final version of the album (“iTunes Preview”). Although I prefer Eyelash over Dreams of a Mad King, I still enjoy this album, my personal standout tracks including “Bed of Nails”, “Orchid Dreaming”, “Winter Room”, “Twisting Man”, and “Paris Skyes”. Their compilation Burning Embers was released in 1995. This is my least favorite release by BEC. While highly imaginative, the remixes vary in quality. Bruce, the author of the article “The Unquiet Grave: Big Electric Cat” succinctly states that “Burning Embers is a spotty piece of work, with a chill take on ‘Christabel’ and a skitterish[sic] darkwave mix of ‘Paris Skyes’ faring better than some outdated house workouts” (Bruce).

After what I would consider to be their weakest release, the 1997 release Eyelash proved to be a masterpiece in my eyes—an experimental, morose album that, to me, highlights the dreamy, poetic essence of Goth. The titular track, written in the memory of Sadler’s father, is a stunning composition with painful lyrics. “Crash Flight 232” is another track that caught me off guard as unnerving and tense, but still particularly well-written and composed. Sadly, their sophomoric album would be their last, as developments on new album releases have been quiet since.

Paul Sadler’s soothing vocals matched/set against the overall sounds of Big Electric Cat have made my transition to Goth music extremely easy. I’ve found their music has provided great a soundtrack while meditating. Big Electric Cat’s take on David Bowie’s classic “Cat People” adds a more sinister, electronic spin on the classic track.  The incorporation of synthesizers reminds me of Clan of Xymox’s melodic and danceable “Stranger”. The solemn, yet beautiful “Transience” is the final track of Eyelash, closing with a slow, mournful tone, highlighted by Sadler’s languid, melancholy vocals:

                Do you still remember

                The passing of your soul?

                Carve the name eternity

                For everyone to hold    

The haunting and dreamy lyrics that drew me in as a fledging Goth continue to astound me with their beauty and depth. This is a band I can’t recommend enough. Their Discogs page can be found here for more information on the album releases and formats.

Recommended Tracks:

Paris Skyes

Cat People(Putting out Fire) (David Bowie cover)

Orchid Dreaming

Bed of Nails

Christabel

Transience

Winter Room

Black Water

Crash Flight 232

Twisting Man

If my rambling on Big Electric Cat interests you, I've created a playlist featuring the aforementioned tracks, which can be listened to here. Unfortunately, I was unable to find "Crash Flight 232", so instead I included the track "Eyelash".

---

As an addendum, I wanted to note some of the changes I made to the blog. I had originally posted “In Defense of Dark Things”, and I made some grammatical edits after previewing the article on the blog. I want to note that The Count, whom I mentioned in the post, recently posted his YouTube video on his new site, The Belfry. The site is a fantastic source for interesting podcasts and posts. I have added this and other numerous links to the Resources page. I also want to thank The HouseCat for mentioning me on her Facebook website; I really appreciate you sharing my post! 

While I closely follow the Blogging without Obligation principle, I sincerely hope to not make a habit of disappearing this long. Many things are coming in the works for this blog.

Sources Cited:

Big Electric Cat. “Eyelash”. Eyelash. Cleopatra, 1997. (link)

Bruce. “The Unquiet Grave: Big Electric Cat”. I Die: You Die. 4 July 2012. 15 July 2015. (link)

“ITunes Preview: Big Electric Cat”. Apple. Nd. 13 July 2015. (link)

Marks, Peter. “Interview with Paul Sadler of Big Electric Cat at EJ’s, Portland, OR, September 6”. Sonic Boom. 24 Sep 2012. 7 July 2015. (link)