Introduction: The Punk Attitude Endures

Those who were punks in the 80s are still punks. Even at 56, the core ethos remains. Anyone who was serious about the punk way back in the day will still adhere to its principles, not just its fashions and music.

From Youth to Wisdom: The Evolution Over Time

I remember the early 80s when it was all about challenging the status quo. The rebellious, youth-driven nature of punk was often seen as just a 'phase' by many. This is why I find it fascinating that, even after more than four decades, the punk attitude still thrives in me.

Climate change, the rise of neoliberalism, and the cultural shifts of the past few decades have shown just how prophetic the original punk sentiments were. These were warnings against the very things we see happening today: the greed of the 80s morphed into a system that stripped workers of job security and kept wages behind the rising cost of living.

The Changing Targets of Authority

The targets and sources of authority have indeed changed. When I was young, the voices of authority were the government, particularly conservative ones, churches, and stale traditions. Now, the progressive nanny state and secular organizations have taken over. They preach about dietary choices and politically correct speech, and for me, these are the new forms of authority. I rebel against them just as strongly as I did against the old guards.

Remaining True to the Punk Spirit

Although I haven’t worn Ramones t-shirts in a long time, and my hair is no longer colored, the attitude and rebelliousness remain. I still don’t like authority and refuse to be obedient because, as a punk, you are not meant to be. The world around me has evolved, but my core beliefs have not.

The Evolution of Punk in Society

Looking back, I played in bands, saw shows, and stood on the stage with those who would become more famous. Life changes, and now I listen to punk music only occasionally. My job, mortgage, and car payments have distanced me from the punk scene. But my views have definitely shifted over the years.

In the early days, the “smash it up mentality” and the rawness of punk music were my main inspiration. As the scene and the public school system started to mold my views, I rebelled against this. I pushed back harder as the scene became more leftist. Now, I rebel against rebellion. I think for myself and don’t let anyone else influence my beliefs or thoughts.

A Conservative Punk in Today’s World

This journey has made me conservative, very Christian, and still fundamentally rebellious. My contradictory nature often confounds people. I go to church with full sleeves and a black flag shirt, and yet I find that in today’s society, being a conservative may be more synonymous with punk rock than actual punk rock once was.

In conclusion, staying true to the punk ethos is more than just a style or a phase. It is a life-changing attitude that endures through generations, even as the society around us continues to evolve.