I have a very good friend, who was one of my first students at Brewster Academy in New Hampshire. (a very good school). Since then, oh ... it was 1988 ??? We have been friends ever since he graduated. Do the math, that's a long lasting friendship. Actually many of my former students stay in touch and I consider them family.
He was always into Goth. One of the friendliest and funniest guys I've ever known. Truly a celebratory of life person. Not dark or pessimistic at all. A very all-round positive and lovely guy. So why Goth? Why would such a person be into Goth.?
Well, he educated me on the subject; topic, maybe realm?
Not meant to be relevant to violence. Not even dark really.
It's a celebration of LIFE.
We are all on a journey to the deep six, the long dirt nap. Goth is a way of celebrating life while we have it. Like the Mexican Day of the Dead.. Or, "Diâ de Muerte". This is one of the most popular holidays in Mexico. Very festive and intended to joyous. It is also showing a respect for a person's passed ancestors.
Sort of "We love you and we will be there soon."
It is a manner of accepting what we have now.
However, there are those who use it under another light. And, that is a way of shocking other people. Whoah, look at me, I'm depressed! Sorry that's their thing. Not mine or my friend's. What can you do about other people?
Nothing.
Just treat them with kindness.