On the subject of Subculture

[Audrada Rôibeardét]

We often talk about Talossan 'culture' or the apparent lack thereof. In truth, Talossa has a distinct culture.

Oxford Dictionary defines culture as:

'The ideas, customs and social behaviour of a particular people or society'

When we analyze Talossa with that definition in mind, we can clearly see that Talossa has a cultural identity.

Some people are unhappy with Talossan culture. That's where subculture comes into play.

And Oxford defines subculture as:

'A cultural group within a larger culture, often having beliefs or interests at variance with those of the larger culture'

For those who are unhappy with 'mainstream Talossa', consider subculture. There are plenty of like-minded individuals (myself included) who are unhappy and more than willing to do something different. Walking away isn't going to change anything. Taking action changes things.

[Iason Bitxichë Taiwos]

This is what we Ohio Benitians have been quietly doing for the last couple years, creating our own Talossan subculture. We haven't really mentioned it to other Talossans, because we figure the rest of the Kingdom either wouldn't care, or would look on us disapprovingly. We are currently compiling a book on aspects of this subculture. Maybe someday we'll submit it for everyone to peruse.

[Audrada Rôibeardét]

I think that the fear of disapproval is a major factor for a lot of people who want to distance themselves from the established norms.

A second factor, one I feel is inherent in the human condition, is the fear of failure. When one invests themselves in any work, they want it to succeed. Failure creates disappointmemt which can lead to hesitation. Hesitation halts progress.

I'm glad to hear of the 'OB' subculture. What's more, it's a subculture that exsists beyond the virtual. That's something I have long felt was of vital importance to our country. I look forward to learning more about your customs and traditions.

[E.S. Bornatfiglheu]

This is coming from the cultural hatchetman, while wearing his "private" hat. Also, as a relatively new member of the Ohio Benitian subculture... since I relocated here from NC, via GA, via TX, via MI... joining Talossa (the Republic specifically) when my macronational living situation was deeply unsettled.

Nonvirtual contact is what is going to save Talossa. The strength of the Colorado Cabal (chosen for alliteration) should point to that, as well as the Ohio Benitian diaspora. Some of the Talossan gestures that have meant the most have been divorced from Witt, when I was told "I'm Txec ***, or *******, if you like. There's a tornado headed straight for you." (This was a real call I received from a former Talossan who was [probably still is] a weather watcher. Or when I was first starting in the Republic, working as Tuisac'h and encouraging an outward look for Talossa, MP and I regularly talked on the phone about his ESTO organization. Though it never cam to fruition, the conversation meant so much. Especially with how socially isolated I was at the time.

Honestly, putting my official hat back on, if there were ways we (the Ministry) could help with nonvirtual connections and cultural sharing... I would love to know them. For that is where there is real strength.