why do people become goths?

People become goths for various reasons, often deeply personal and unique to each individual. Here are some common motivations:

Aesthetic Appreciation:

• Attraction to Beauty in Darkness: Many are drawn to the gothic aesthetic, finding beauty in dark, mysterious, and melancholic imagery.
• Fashion and Art: The unique and expressive fashion, makeup, and art associated with the goth subculture appeal to those who enjoy creative self-expression.

Musical Preferences:

• Love for Goth Music: The music associated with the goth scene, such as gothic rock, darkwave, and post-punk, resonates with many on an emotional level.
• Connection to Lyrics: The themes in goth music, often dealing with existentialism, romance, and introspection, can feel deeply relevant and meaningful.

Philosophical and Emotional Resonance:

• Existential and Romantic Themes: The goth subculture's focus on existential questions, the beauty of melancholy, and romanticism aligns with some individuals' worldviews.
• Emotional Expression: The goth culture provides a space for exploring and expressing complex emotions, including sadness, introspection, and the macabre.

Rebellion and Non-conformity:

• Rejection of Mainstream Norms: Some people become goths as a way to rebel against societal norms and mainstream culture, embracing individuality and non-conformity.
• Seeking Alternative Identity: For those who feel out of place in conventional social structures, the goth subculture offers an alternative identity and a sense of belonging.

Community and Belonging:

• Sense of Community: The goth subculture provides a supportive and accepting community for those who may feel like outsiders elsewhere.
• Shared Interests: Joining the goth scene allows individuals to connect with others who share similar interests in music, literature, fashion, and art.

Personal Experience and Influence:

• Personal Experiences: Life experiences, such as dealing with personal loss, trauma, or feeling misunderstood, can draw individuals to the themes of the goth subculture.
• Influence from Friends or Media: Exposure to goth culture through friends, media, or popular culture can spark interest and lead someone to explore and ultimately identify with the subculture.

Creativity and Self-expression:

• Artistic Outlet: The goth subculture encourages artistic and creative expression, allowing individuals to explore and showcase their unique styles and talents.
• Freedom to Experiment: Being goth often means having the freedom to experiment with different looks, sounds, and ideas without fear of judgment.

Intellectual and Cultural Interests:

• Interest in Gothic Literature and Horror: A fascination with gothic literature, horror films, and dark themes in art and culture can naturally lead someone to the goth subculture.
• Appreciation for History and Symbolism: Many goths have an interest in the historical and symbolic aspects of goth culture, including Victorian fashion and gothic architecture.

In essence, people become goths for a combination of aesthetic, emotional, intellectual, and social reasons. The subculture offers a unique space for self-expression, exploration of darker themes, and connection with like-minded individuals.