An Open Letter To Punk Rock Music (Written Roughly 5 Minutes After Bouncing Soul’s Set)

Dear Punk Rock,

Please take these roses. We need to talk. I came to the realization today that I need you back in my life. No more empty promises and false words; this time, I want to be with you for good.

See, after an amazing show I often think that a piece of my heart goes with the band as they leave the stage, the club, (and sometimes:) the city, the state. Tonight I feel as though a piece of my heart is in the vans of every punk band leaving Fun Fun Fun Fest tonight. Big and small, young and old, shitty and great, old skool and new style, lifers and posuers; I love you all. I don’t care how silly, self indulgent, or over the top you are, punk rock. I don’t care that you’ve been mass marketed, lost and gained your edge and very exisistence, and inspired some of the all time shittiest tattoos and attitudes.

I used to have a very sure idea of who I was (a punk rocker) and where I fit into the scene, but lately I have been feeling a little lost. I don’t always feel very punk, and I know I’m not the punkest girl. I definitely appreciate many different sorts of music, and I don’t turn to punk as much these days.

But today I could have championed skulls and spikes to the world. Today reminded me of why I chose punk rock and why, in many ways, punk rock chose me back. Almost never have I felt such a great sense of belonging than at the Bouncing Souls show tonight. When I pumped my fists in the air with the crowd and screamed “true believer,” I screamed it like I meant it. I honestly felt like a true believer in punk rock, more than I have in a long time.

As I said before, I’m not the punkest girl. But whenever I stray from punk, it has a way of pulling me back in. I can never escape, thank god. Sure, Mr. Rotten, I’ve gotten the feeling I’ve been cheated, but never by the music.

Yours truly,

Zoe