Essay by: Bryan Harrison
Subject: Stereotypes

Punk is a Term Most Confused

    Let us start by identifying the common misconceptions about the Punks. The majority of our society has apparently seen the movies which depict Punks as a bad, unintelligent group of hoodlums. This conception of Punks is true. After all, the dictionary defines the word "punk" to be a social delinquent. However, a group of people fighting for change and developing a new non-corrupt society happen to call themselves punks. For this reason, I am discouraged when people call these individuals delinquents of society when they are actually trying to save society. These "good" punks have some very interesting ideas.

    Two forms of punks exist. The bad form of the word is usually thought of first. The delinquent punks are chaotic and disruptive to others. On the other hand, the good punks - the ones in which I so readily defend - are a peaceful, unbiased community dedicated to the abolishment of conspiracy and lies. Good punks are knowledgeable, anti-racist, anti-corruption, and from experience, rather friendly. People who share ideas with punks are usually the more trustworthy people in today’s society. The punks that I know encourage freedom to do anything which is morally acceptable without having opposition. In other words, "Do whatever the hell you want, but don’t hinder anyone else in doing so." That, to me, sounds like an excellent, simple way to govern a society.

    Because of these bad reputations, punks are treated rather harshly. Searches are common at school activities when a punk enters the room. Sometimes, searches are understandable because some punks take their traits too far. I have a friend who is constantly searched wherever he goes just because of the way he looks. Ironically, he is one of the most considerate, honorable, smart, friendly people that I have ever met. Punks are also hated by many groups because they seem different. Harsh opposition is found wherever they go because most of the population does not recognize the punks inner motives. I wonder if every person were fully aware of the true intentions of Punks, they would all get some spikes to decorate themselves with.

    When I hear of a conflict between the average person and a punk, the first feeling that comes to mind is disappointment. I am disappointed at the people who just refuse to learn the truth about punks. I am discouraged that there is even an argument whether a good punk is harmful to society. A good punk is society’s only defense. The second emotion that enters my mind when a punk is wrongfully prejudged is sympathy. I personally have views that extremely similar to punks , and consider myself a near punk, if not a complete punk.

    I hope in the future, punks will be heard. Punks have a very good idea of the problems in society. I hope their ways will be recognized as a good alternative to the current form of society’s organization. Here is a quotation from the song, "Them and Us" by a punk rock group called Bad Religion. This statement is just one of the examples of how good punks think. "Hate is a simple manifestation of the deep-seated self-directed frustration. All it does is promote fear and consternation. It’s the inability to justify the enemy, and it fills us all with trepidation."