THE Interviews: As a curious 'Observational Writer,' I am simply interested in having a glimmer of understanding, and not at all attempting to be judgmental, as to the reasons for Gen Z's often overwhelming displays of this art form slathered all over their bodies.
-You can't Know Everything ~ But you can Know Nothing-
I've spoken to several about this issue. One woman showed me a pic of some kind of extinct bird all over her back. I joked with her as to how long it took her to sleep on her back again after this (9) hour needle poking session? She laughed and said, "Several Days." Ah, 'Good-Hurt!' What had been said was almost unanimous. "This is what we do to identify the independence of our generation: Long sideburns - Beatle haircuts and other 'Fads' were prevalent within other generations." Yes, but those could be easily 'buzzed' off..!
— Tatting & Piercing —
I 'Politely' asked a beautiful young woman dressed in a sleeveless shirt about her colorful flower arm sleeves covering every inch of her. She said they are very 'Personal' and didn't wish to engage: Sorry to back "Petal" here but 'Flowers' too Personal?
Another said, "I got them because I wanted to be a little different as my very own brand: Perhaps we are merely people with the need for a little added zest and extra color. We are the Nonalarmist Generation such as when a family member leans over a 1st single-digit birthday cake candle to light a Cigarette."
Yet, another had large bright red lips tattooed on her neck: I refrained from saying anything, but in our day that was called a "Hickey." Many of you will disagree with me. I've touched on this issue within some of my 'Shorts' and received comments from Authors, who write in the 'Art' Category, saying that "I just don't appreciate this Art form."
I certainly understand and respect their rights of self- expression and the messages that they may convey. With the exception of a working environment whereby the 1st encounter with clients is brought on by this display is to unavoidably discuss his billboard and distract from ours. It shouldn't be about him but the business interests first and foremost.
I put this issue into the category of 'Just Prudent Business Practices' that may take away from our reasons for being there. We have the 'right' to hire who we wish to for whatever reasons, as they have their rights to make it harder to be hired; shouldn't it work both ways?
True Story: Recently we had a young man fill out an application for employment who was degreed and excessively qualified for his job category; we did not accept his application.
After he was asked to leave he began loudly ranting to our HR department about discrimination. Not to make a scene, we invited him into our conference room to discuss the matter. He had a blatant display of neck tattoos and nose/ear piercings that could not be hidden under clothing. Standard 'Check-the-Box' hiring practices simply limit the chances to get that j.o.b. these days. I suppose it's just me regarding first impressions: Such as showing up without even bothering to iron clothing wrinkles out before applying for a job.
— It’s not a Sin to be a ‘Schlub’ but it is to Appear as one —
He threatened to sue or have us settle so as not to destroy our reputation. Subsequently, we learned that this person of interest tried the same ploy with other deep-pocket firms to no avail in gaining a settlement rather than damaging their reputations as well on their banners within very competitive businesses. He couldn't even get an 'Ambulance Chasing' law firm to represent him with this civil-suit in any fashion. It truly saddens me how we may have become a vastly 'something for nothing' society within many professions and occupations.
I certainly understand Tattoos go way back to Biblical times as an honor or remembrance, especially with those within Royal Families, as evidenced even with mummified remains: Many religions are more or less on the fence regarding this issue from generation to generation, in my opinion. Having spent many years in the Navy, it seems that it's tradition to have Tats made famous by Popeye the Sailor man, "I Yam what I Yam ~ I Iz what I Iz..!" But, I passed on the "Good Hurt"...couldn't get past the needle poke..!
Jay Kantor, Chatsworth, California
'Senior' Vocal Author - Vocal Village Community -
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Jay Kantor
'For The Kids Someday'
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Comments (38)
Not a big fan of tats but to each their own!
"Totally agree!"
It's interesting how Gen Z uses tattoos and piercings to show their independence. I remember when I was younger, body art was seen as more rebellious. Now it seems like it's almost mainstream. But I wonder if there's more to it than just standing out. Do these tattoos and piercings really define a generation, or is there something deeper going on? I get that it's personal, but it's still a bit surprising when someone won't even talk about their tats. Like that woman with the flower sleeves. Maybe it's just me, but I'd be curious to know the story behind them. And that neck tattoo? That's definitely a bold statement. It makes me think about how much things have changed in terms of what's considered acceptable body art. I respect everyone's right to express themselves, but I do wonder how these choices might impact their future, especially in a professional setting. Will attitudes towards body art continue to change, or will there always be some stigma attached? It's something to think about.
Well written, congratulations on top story 👏🏼
"Do you remember the first time we met?" Ava asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper. She rested her head on his chest, her fingers tracing gentle patterns on his skin.
I understand this frustration as it’s hard get used to a new generational mindset and their quirks lol great points
Great piece, Jay. Congratulations on the Top Story, too. As someone of the older generation, I've come a long way with acceptance of tattoos and piercings, especially in the need to explore individualism; however, I agree, it can prove detrimental in the employment scheme of things. Everything has a place, and though it may not always be fair, first impressions add a great deal to the possibility of impending employment.
Congrats my friend on this top story. I have been on both sides of this fence. Grew up in a small town, small town community beliefs and values. Bible college and worked as a "missionary" I also have tattoos, pretty mild and can be covered. My daughters...are covered in them. I agree with JBaz, consequences and all, however, as I age, I have begun to wonder why are we so hung up on how someone looks...I understand being professional, but if I can do the work and do it well, then what's the big deal? What I don't agree with is suing and pushing others around to a point of view, regardless of which side you fall on. James Bond had it right...Live and Let live (Die) Oh, you know what I mean! :) Really enjoyed this, Jk <3
Great story
Congratulations on your top story 👍🏾
🎉🎊 Congratulations on achieving Top Story! 🏆✨ So well deserved! 🙌👏 Your talent shines through every word! 🖋️💫 Keep inspiring and soaring to new heights! 🚀🌟 🥳🎈💐 Way to go!
Great reflections, Jay. Interacting with Gen-Z on a daily basis, I don’t really care about how they look and express themselves. But I always tell them that if they are applying for a job and especially in service industry they should be careful about how they (re)present themselves with their bodies.
Back to say congratulations on your Top Story! 🎉💖🎊🎉💖🎊
Yay Jay!!!!! I'm circling back to say congrats on Top Story!!! 🎉
Tats, no way!!! I don't like needles!!! Loved your Good Hurt story!!!❤️❤️💕
Ahh, yes... the "good hurt" of a tattoo, aka painful events that shape who you are as a human. Well written Jay!! Congrats on honourable mention for most discussed story this week!
Wooohooooo congratulations on your Leaderboard placement! 🎉💖🎊🎉💖🎊
I like your take on this with humour and not berating. I believe anyone can do what ever they like as ling as it doesn't hurt others or themselves. But don't plead discrimination for others haveing a view of their own. Every action is rewarded or has consequences ..that is life. Congratulations on your leader board placement
Good story - you expressed your feelings on the subject without stepping on anyone’s toes. I like the way you presented the subject of body art, if one can call it that - Fay
Yes, times have changed! I don't have any and don't want any, either. I'm not paying for anybody to get them...so if they do, it's their business, BUT it is up to my discretion as to hiring if I am the boss. Fair? yes Great points you made.
Jay, in our generation tats were for bikers and sailors. What these young men and women don't realize is that battleship inked across your chest at 20 sags into a garbage scow at 60. The same it true with the lovely flowers that have wilted over time. My biggest pet peeve are nose piercings and rings. Noses will never look beautiful no matter how much junk is hung on them. I see women with beautiful eyes or a captivating smile but the beauty is ruined by junk sticking out of their nose. Nose rings were stuck into slaves for control not fashion. Okay I'm done ranting.
You stole my thunder, Jay. I had on my list of stories for this month ' Why do people do it?" I have never had nor have I ever had any desire to get a tattoo. While I understand it is a free world, I just don't get why you would want to turn your body into a piece of canvas. Okay, maybe one or two to show you are independent or whatever, but these whole sleeves that people get down their entire arm, legs, and body? Really? Where I live, you are in he minority if you DON'T have a tattoo. It is not just young people either, so it can't be a generational thing. There are ladies in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s with multiple tattoos.
Well-wrought! I got one tatoo. Green guy on my left arm with middle finger extended. I think of him as my complaint department...
Personally, I don't understand it & don't ever feel the need for one. But I do accept it as a form of personal expression. I don't believe that it is (necessarily) a form of self-mutilation, the way we were taught when we were kids (or at least I was). Who knows, the day may come when they may even be expected among polite society--or even demanded in order to be acceptable (thinking book of Revelation here).
Dear Jay: Personally, I don't have any tattoos and have never wanted one. I don't have a problem with tattoos either. I don't think they belong in a professional environment, but I'm probably in the minority. I do wish my oldest daughter would quit getting them.... Sincerely, Mother