Literature and experience constantly reminds us that looks can be deceiving. I know it is not my right to question why people attempt to portray an image, rather than just accept that person looks that way because they want to look that way.

I often realize that those that are the quickest to associate themselves with punk rock or adopt a punk aesthetic are the least likely to do anything revolutionary, activist, or anarchistic. As though having a mohawk, tattoos, and a torn-up military vest with a Misfits/Clash/Born Against patch implies that, although you enjoy the music, either you disagree with the message or are unwilling to take any action. I'm sure this has been discussed ad nauseum in some zine somewhere, so I won't rehash it. Just sayin...people need to get off their asses, rather than trying to look like they have gotten off their asses.

On the other hand, I've recently met individuals that have surprised me with radical thoughts and actions that belie an appearingly harmless exterior. In others, I have discovered a horrible and depressing life experience while appearing to be endearingly innocent.