MOTHER (CULT)URE

From the novel, I believe “mother culture” refers to society as a whole, specifically popular or common belief. It plays an important role because the “norms” imposed upon us by this mother culture directly affects or plays a part in decisions many people make.

For me, it is important to refuse that which is imposed upon me by society. This is seen by many as an attempt to rebel or act out, but it stems from very pure personal belief. I believe that the meaning behind life is to be happy, and what upsets me, above anything else, is the judgments and morals pressed on us by people to be a certain way. This is probably due to the fact that when I was growing up, I was always teased, but I choose now to refuse these cultural laws because I believe, as an artist, that I should always honor my vision. Lady Gaga said, “I shall not be defined by the beauty or music projected upon me. I shall define it for myself.” And I feel the same way. She also said, “I feel a moral obligation to push the boundaries of love and acceptance. In order for art, music, technology, and fashion to move forward you have to be audacious.” I feel that I have to be the change I want to see in the world and by living my life, everyday, allowing myself the freedom to be whoever I want to be (fearless of judgment), maybe, one day, I can inspire someone else to do the same. I will live in accordance with what dictates how I feel, unafraid of any force outside the confines of my being.

In short, I try not to be affected by mother culture because I think that it can dilute and suppress the being. That is not to say that I don’t feel pressure to be a certain way considering I live as a part of society along with everyone else, but it is constantly my intention to be free and to always be myself.
( I have a fucking Born This Way tattoo on my finger… I’m reminded every day)