Teen Gothic

For context, I am Gen Z

When I talk to my dad (who would be considered somewhere between a boomer and Gen X) about bands like The Sisters of Mercy, who would indisputably be called goth today (even if they don't identify themselves as such, haha), he argues that they aren't. I know goth in the 70s was originally called post-punk or new wave, which is what he calls it, but if that's the case, then what would someone his age think of as goth? I'm interested in how the meaning of the word has changed, and also would love to learn the history of the genre, including the things that once might have been called "goth", but now might not be labelled as such. I'm especially interested in perspectives from older goths, as, like I mentioned, I'm pretty young and only got into the scene around 6-8 months ago.

Thanks!! 🖤

I'm most interested in thoughts from those whose taste in music, aesthetic, hobbies, social circles, identities, and/or worldviews developed within the 80s-era goth subculture. Music is the most relevant point of focus, as this subreddit emphasizes.

I'll post something similar next week for people who encountered goth music in the 90s and 00s.

• When did you become involved in the subculture? When were you last significantly invested in it? (If you're part of this demographic and you're reading this post, I can assume some level of interest.)

• Related to previous: Where in the world do you live? Where have you lived?

• Were 80s goths as snarky as I've been told that you were?

• Did you seriously dislike people who smoked clove cigarettes? (I had an elder goth friend who could not STAND people who did.)

• What interests you about everything that's changed since the 80s/90s/00s?

• How often do you attend live shows and/or festivals?

• If you're familiar with post-2000 goth music, which newer bands do you recommend?

• Just for fun: Is your home decor gothic?

Point form answers are fine. So are long answers. Whichever you prefer.