Gotyk

Gotyk is a term used to describe a subculture that emerged in the United Kingdom in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It is characterized by a distinct aesthetic, musical taste, and often a melancholic or romantic worldview. The visual style typically includes dark clothing, often black, with elements like lace, velvet, and leather. Makeup is frequently dark and dramatic, with pale skin, dark eyeliner, and dark lipstick being common. Hair can be dyed dark colors, often styled elaborately or in a more natural, unkempt fashion.

Musically, the gotyk subculture is associated with gothic rock, post-punk, and darkwave genres. Bands like Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, The Cure, and Sisters of Mercy are considered foundational to the genre. Lyrically, these songs often explore themes of death, romance, horror, the supernatural, and existentialism, contributing to the melancholic and introspective atmosphere often linked with gotyk.

The subculture is not monolithic and encompasses a wide range of individuals with varying beliefs and interests. While certain aesthetic and musical preferences are common, the core of the gotyk identity often lies in an appreciation for the darker, more introspective aspects of life and art. It emphasizes individuality and can be seen as a form of escapism or an exploration of personal identity. The subculture has spread internationally and continues to evolve, with new iterations and influences appearing over time.