My thoughts on…the tattoo craze sweeping Jamaica
May 1st 2006 -
Jamaicans love a good fad. From body piercings, cellphones, Lance Armstrong bracelets and its knockoffs, to even spring water, we’ve turned just about every insignificant trinket into a must have accessory. The latest fad is tattoos. Tattoos have been in Jamaica for many years, but they have just begun to catch on. They are worn mainly by teens and women, and can be found in the typical places; on arms, breasts and above buttcracks. With each passing day, the number of people wearing tattoos seems to increase. Now those other fads didn’t bother me. In fact, I participated in some of the during my teen years (Funny, teens always talk about expressing their individuality, yet are obsessed with fitting in). But unlike the objects of those other fads, tattoos are permanent. What happens when you’re old and the fad is over? How cool will you look when you’re in the old folks home with a flaming skull hovering over your ass crack?
And did you know that most people get tattoos as a sign of rebellion or to gain sexual attention? Rebellion? Ha! Tattoos barely register a blip on the parental radar nowadays. And nothing says raw sexuality like a foot-long cobra in a striking pose. Plus tattoos can give others the wrong impression of you, especially in the working world. Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying a tattoo is a bad thing. It can actually be quite beautiful when done for the right reason. What disturbs me is that people are getting tattoos for little or no reason, except that it’s trendy. Yet another example of American culture eroding Jamaican culture.
Kaschief Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 10:23 pm
I hate tattoos.
Maritza Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 6:38 am
I’m tired of tattoos myself. Everyone has one. I think it’s a sign of rebellion to NOT have one!
Abeni Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 3:56 pm
I think a little one like a heart or something is cute.However,am not brave enough to get one.The tattoos that are the funniest are the ones with the name of the current love interest.
Nidhi Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 11:44 pm
Nice post Leon.
small tattoos look cute but I really scare to have. Its very painful and in India its hard to look for the tattoo designer.
Love
Nidhi
TC Says:
May 3rd, 2006 at 3:00 am
My cousin, who was in the British Navy has a Geisha girl all down the side of his lower leg, plus others.
That might look a bit strange in the retirement home!
I think it would be a bigger mistake to have “Sons of Satan” across your forehead, though!
wdegraw Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 11:45 pm
I’m all for the “Back Tat” - the ones women get over the buttcrack. Having one encourages them to show off that area more …
RainStorm1212 Says:
May 6th, 2006 at 7:56 am
I started getting tattoos before there was even a trend or fad. People would give me strange looks, but I didn’t care. I’ve always liked tattoos and motorcycles.
I have a half sleeve and five other tatts. I do plan on getting another one. And I could really care less of what people think.