History Main / Emo

These genres' fanbases came to be known as "Emo Kids," or just "Emos." Due to the reflective and melancholic nature of the music, the idea of "being emo" came to suggest sensitivity, introspection, low self-esteem, a bent towards the artistic/literary, and a tendency to taking issues more seriously and personally than considered [[{{YMMV}} "normal."]] Due to media misrepresentation, pejorative stereotyping and general ignorance, emo has since undergone considerable {{Flanderization}}, and has become a victim of CowboyBebopAtHisComputer, particularly since the mid 2000's when the term gained traction in the [[PublicMediumIgnorance mainstream media]]. As a result, "emo" is now a catch-all term for a rather ill-defined mish-mash of alternative music and subcultures, as well as entering the public lexicon as a noun or adjective suggesting [[{{YMMV}} excessive]] angst or emotionality.

Ultimately a person might mean any one of these when using the term 'emo':

# A fan of the above. Stereotypically characterised as an inroverted, overly-introspective misfit, although some may just be fans of the music and not exhibit these traits.

# A fan of the above. Stereotypically characterised as a shy, overly-introspective, hyper-sensitive misfit, although some may just be fans of the music and not exhibit these traits.

These genres' fanbases came to be known as "Emo Kids," or just "Emos." Due to the reflective and melancholic nature of the music, the idea of "being emo" came to suggest sensitivity, introspection, low self-esteem, a bent towards the artistic/literary, and a tendency to taking issues more seriously and personally than considered [[{{YMMV}} "normal."]] Due to media misrepresentation, pejorative stereotyping and general ignorance, emo has since undergone considerable {{Flanderization}}, and has become a victim of CowboyBebopAtHisComputer, particularly since the mid 2000's when the term gained traction in the [[PublicMediumIgnorance mainstream media]]. As a result, "emo" is now a catch-all term for a rather ill-defined mish-mash of alternative music and subcultures, as well as entering the public lexicon as a noun or adjective suggesting [[YMMV excessive]] angst or emotionality.

With regards to tropes, "emo" is generally associated with sensitivity, angst, moodiness and an excessive preoccupation with ones own feelings and woes. Emo contrasts with TheStoic in that TheStoic maintains their calm and composure where the emo types wear their angst writ over their very being. Can be NotSoStoic as they ''attempt'' to be TheStoic and fail. PerpetualFrowner, TroubledButCute, DarkAndTroubledPast all lend themselves well to emo characterisations, and {{Wangst}} when one feels the angst is excessive, (although as ever, [[{{YMMV}} Your Mileage May Vary]].) The EmoTeen page details the common - if reductive - portrayal of the concept in mainstream media.

These genres' fanbases came to be known as "Emo Kids," or just "Emos." Due to the reflective and melancholic nature of the music, the idea of "being emo" came to suggest sensitivity, introspection, low self-esteem, a bent towards the artistic/literary, and a tendency to taking issues more seriously and personally than considered [[YMMV "normal."]] Due to media misrepresentation, pejorative stereotyping and general ignorance, emo has since undergone considerable {{Flanderization}}, and has become a victim of CowboyBebopAtHisComputer, particularly since the mid 2000's when the term gained traction in the [[PublicMediumIgnorance mainstream media]]. As a result, "emo" is now a catch-all term for a rather ill-defined mish-mash of alternative music and subcultures, as well as entering the public lexicon as a noun or adjective suggesting [[YMMV excessive]] angst or emotionality.

With regards to tropes, "emo" is generally associated with sensitivity, angst, moodiness and an excessive preoccupation with ones own feelings and woes. Emo contrasts with TheStoic in that TheStoic maintains their calm and composure where the emo types wear their angst writ over their very being. Can be NotSoStoic as they ''attempt'' to be TheStoic and fail. PerpetualFrowner, TroubledButCute, DarkAndTroubledPast all lend themselves well to emo characterisations, and {{Wangst}} when one feels the angst is excessive, (although as ever, [[YMMV Your Mileage May Vary]].) The EmoTeen page details the common - if reductive - portrayal of the concept in mainstream media.

[[quoteright:184:[[Webcomic/ChugworthAcademy https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/chugworth-304.jpg]]]]

And I don't know if anything at all will be all right\\
I've got my hands on the one hand,\\
but I don't know where to put them."''

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of HardcorePunk originating in the early '80s and developing into a PopPunk / AlternativeRock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the '90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard PunkRock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality, with bands such as Music/SunnyDayRealEstate, Music/{{AFI}} and Music/{{Fugazi}}. Particularly in the '90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation. The TurnOfTheMillennium saw the genre gain popularity, with bands like Music/TheUsed, Music/TakingBackSunday and Brand New gaining devoted cult fanbases. It also saw the term take on a quite different meaning, with the emergence of 'Emo Pop' bands such as Music/PanicAtTheDisco and Music/FallOutBoy, and an associated loose subculture that has since become archetypal of the decade.

The emo fanbase came to be known as "Emo Kids," or just "Emos." Due to the nature of the music, young people of a similar disposition and attitude were attracted to the scene, and the idea of "being emo" took on a personality of its own, reflecting the nature of the music. "Emo" thus came to suggest an individual (usually young) of a uniquely sensitive, introspective, insecure, "deep," and often melancholic disposition; usually a social misfit with low self-esteem and a bent towards the artistic/literary, prone to taking issues more seriously and personally than considered "normal." Emo has since undergone considerable {{Flanderization}}, and has become a victim of CowboyBebopAtHisComputer, particularly since the mid 2000's when the term began to be used (often erroneously) by the mainstream and uninformed media. As a result, "emo" has become a catch-all for a generic and ill-defined mish-mash of alternative, music-related youth cultures and scenes with little in common with the original term.

Currently, "emo" is incorrectly often seen as an insincere, superficial affectation of attention-seeking teenagers. In this usage, it oxymoronically refers to a youngster who in fact displays a fairly narrow range of emotion, all of it negative and most of it {{Wangst}}y. Many depictions of these so-called "emos" also have them fascinated by issues such as self-harming and suicide, not necessarily because they are suffering from any of the ''genuine'' problems or issues regarding depression or such that often drive people to such acts, but out of a misplaced and slightly worrying fascination with the 'glamour' supposedly inherent within these acts. As a result, the standard, modern stereotype of an Emo is that of a [[AttentionWhore self-pitying poseur]]; someone who adopts a superficial facade [[TroubledButCute exploiting genuine problems and painful issues in order to appear cool]], trendy, and to belong to the sub-culture.

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe general teenage self-absorption in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour," "posing," or "attention-seeking." This assumption is a largely modern construct caused by the mass commercialization of the term during the mid 2000's and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may, however, also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to both music-based subcultures and personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection / absorption, angst (be it {{wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[NoSympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is highly subjective (YMMV); one persons genuine angst is another's {{wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people are just naturally inclined to angst, over-think, be withdrawn but over-sensitive, etc.

Ultimately these are three possible characterizations for an "Emo (Kid):"

# A fan of [[EmoMusic post-hardcore or emo music]]. Such a character stereotypically will be a somewhat shy, excessively thoughtful, hyper-emotional, uniquely sensitive and introspective misfit, but not necessarily. They may simply enjoy the music and scene. Their love of an unashamedly emotive genre, however, will likely suggest a generally sensitive, emotionally-aware, and good-natured individual, at the least. As "emo" has become less and less recognized in relation to its musical roots, this (its original characterization) is rarely used except by those informed on emo's history.

# A person characterized as having an "emo personality." This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo," having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, EmoMusic. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is deemed "normal." When a character in fiction is deemed "emo," it is usually based in this trope. Though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo," regardless of whether it is common behavior for that character]]. For a character to be considered "emo," though, such behavior should be a common attribute in their characterization.

# A vain, trend-hopping teenager ''faking'' being one or both of the previous types in order to [[TroubledButCute appear cool / individual / alternative]], and because it's currently fashionable. This type is usually a teenager who, up until they discovered the "emo trend," was a pretty normal kid who had no problems fitting in, never worried or angsted excessively, and had no interest in poetry/writing, etc. and had no problems with depression. Yet suddenly they throw on some skinny jeans and eyeliner and insist they're a miserable, misunderstood loner. This trope is more commonly applied in Real Life than in fiction, but unfortunately has become the mass-public's understanding of the term "emo."

Interestingly enough, in Elizabethan times, many young men posed as "melancholy" which translated to sad, troubled, fond of wearing black, and artistic, making this trope OlderThanSteam.

Not to be confused with comedian Creator/EmoPhillips, nor with Emo, County Laois. And especially not to be confused with {{Goth}}s. Whilst certain elements of the Emo and Goth scenes share some common fashion, and while Goths also come across as introverted and moody, the Goth is usually more cerebral, and generally not seen as emotional. [[EmotionlessGirl Quite the opposite, in fact]]. See EmoTeen for the portrayal of the subculture in fiction, and {{Wangst}} for characters felt to push this to the extreme.

And I don't anyone\\

->''And I don't know God\\

but I don't know where to put them.''

Currently, "emo" is incorrectly often seen as an insincere, superficial affectation of attention-seeking teenagers. In this usage, it oxymoronically refers to a youngster who in fact displays a fairly narrow range of emotion, all of it negative and most of it {{Wangst}}y. Many depictions of these so-called "emos" also have them fascinated by issues such as self-harming and suicide, not necessarily because they are suffering from any of the ''genuine'' problems or issues regarding depression or such that often drive people to such acts, but out of a misplaced and slightly worrying fascination with the 'glamour' supposedly inherent within these acts. As a result, the standard, modern stereotype of an Emo is that of a self-pitying poseur; someone who adopts a superficial facade [[TroubledButCute exploiting genuine problems and painful issues in order to appear cool]], trendy, and to belong to the sub-culture.

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of HardcorePunk originating in the early '80s and developing into a PopPunk / AlternativeRock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the '90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard PunkRock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality, with bands such as Music/SunnyDayRealEstate, Music/{{AFI}} and Music/{{Fugazi}}. Particularly in the '90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation. The TurnOfTheMillennium saw the genre gain popularity, with bands like Music/TheUsed, Music/TakingBackSunday and Brand New gaining devoted cult fanbases. also saw the term take on a quite different meaning, with the emergence of 'Emo Pop' bands such as Music/PanicAtTheDisco and Music/FallOutBoy, and an associated loose subculture that has since become archetypal of the decade.

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of HardcorePunk originating in the early '80s and developing into a PopPunk / AlternativeRock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the '90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard PunkRock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality, with bands such as SunnyDayRealEstate, Music/{{AFI}} and Music/{{Fugazi}}. Particularly in the '90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation. The TurnOfTheMillennium saw the genre gain popularity, with bands like TheUsed, TakingBackSunday and Brand New gaining devoted cult fanbases. also saw the term take on a quite different meaning, with the emergence of 'Emo Pop' bands such as Music/PanicAtTheDisco and Music/FallOutBoy, and an associated loose subculture that has since become archetypal of the decade.

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of HardcorePunk originating in the early '80s and developing into a PopPunk / AlternativeRock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the '90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard PunkRock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality. Particularly in the '90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation. The TurnOfTheMillennium also saw the term take on a quite different meaning, with the emergence of 'Emo Pop' bands such as Music/MyChemicalRomance and Music/FallOutBoy, and an associated loose subculture that has since become archetypal of the decade.

Currently, "emo" is often seen as an insincere, superficial affectation of attention-seeking teenagers. In this usage, it oxymoronically refers to a youngster who in fact displays a fairly narrow range of emotion, all of it negative and most of it {{Wangst}}y. Many depictions of these so-called "emos" also have them fascinated by issues such as self-harming and suicide, not necessarily because they are suffering from any of the ''genuine'' problems or issues regarding depression or such that often drive people to such acts, but out of a misplaced and slightly worrying fascination with the 'glamour' supposedly inherent within these acts. As a result, the standard, modern stereotype of an Emo is that of a self-pitying poseur; someone who adopts a superficial facade [[TroubledButCute exploiting genuine problems and painful issues in order to appear cool]], trendy, and to belong to the sub-culture.

# A fan of [[EmoMusic emotive hardcore and/or emo music]]. Such a character stereotypically will be a somewhat shy, excessively thoughtful, hyper-emotional, uniquely sensitive and introspective misfit, but not necessarily. They may simply enjoy the music and scene. Their love of an unashamedly emotive genre, however, will likely suggest a generally sensitive, emotionally-aware, and good-natured individual, at the least. As "emo" has become less and less recognized in relation to its musical roots, this (its original characterization) is rarely used except by those informed on emo's history.

[[quoteright:184:[[Webcomic/{{Chugworth}} http://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/chugworth-304.jpg]]]]

-->-- The Promise Ring "Nothing Feels Good"

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of Hardcore Punk originating in the early '80s and developing into a Pop-Punk/Alternative Rock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the 90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard Punk Rock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality. Particularly in the 90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation. The Main/TurnOfTheMillennium also saw the term take on a quite different meaning, with the emergence of 'Emo pop' bands such as My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy, and an associated loose subculture that has since become archetypal of the decade.

The emo fanbase came to be known as "Emo Kids", or just "Emos". Due to the nature of the music, young people of a similar disposition and attitude were attracted to the Scene, and the idea of "being emo" took on a personality of its own, reflecting the nature of the music. "Emo" thus came to suggest an individual (usually young) of a uniquely sensitive, introspective, insecure, "deep", and often melancholic disposition; usually a social misfit with low self-esteem and a bent towards the artistic/literary, prone to taking issues more seriously and personally than considered "normal". Emo has since undergone considerable {{Flanderization}}, and has become a victim of {{Cowboy Bebop At His Computer}}, particularly since the mid 2000s when the term began to be used (often erroneously) by the mainstream and uninformed media. As a result, "emo" has become a catch-all for a generic and ill-defined mish-mash of alternative, music-related youth cultures and scenes with little in common with the original term.

Currently, "emo" is often seen as an insincere, superficial affectation of attention-seeking teenagers. In this usage, it oxymoronically refers to a youngster who in fact displays a fairly narrow range of emotion, all of it negative and most of it {{Wangst}}y. Many depictions of these so-called "emos" also have them fascinated by issues such as self-harming and suicide, not necessarily because they are suffering from any of the ''genuine'' problems or issues regarding depression or such that often drive people to such acts, but out of a misplaced and slightly worrying fascination with the 'glamour' supposedly inherent within these acts. As a result, the standard, modern stereotype of an Emo is that of a self-pitying poseur; someone who adopts a superficial facade [[TroubledButCute exploiting genuine problems and painful issues in order to appear cool]], trendy, and to belong to the sub-culture.

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe general teenage self-absorption in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct caused by the mass commercialization of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may, however, also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to both music-based subcultures and personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorption, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[NoSympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is highly subjective (YMMV); one persons genuine angst is another's {{Wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people are just naturally inclined to angst, over-think, be withdrawn but over-sensitive, etc.

Ultimately these are three possible characterizations for an "Emo (Kid)":

# A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, EmoMusic. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is deemed "normal". When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope. Though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behavior for that character]]. For a character to be considered "emo", though, such behavior should be a common attribute in their characterization.

# A vain, trend-hopping teenager ''faking'' being one or both of the previous types in order to [[TroubledButCute appear cool/individual/alternative]], and because it's currently fashionable. This type is usually a teenager who, up until they discovered the "emo trend", was a pretty normal kid who had no problems fitting in, never worried or angsted excessively, and had no interest in poetry/writing, etc. and had no problems with depression. Yet suddenly they throw on some skinny jeans and eyeliner and insist they're a miserable, misunderstood loner. This trope is more commonly applied in Real Life than in fiction, but unfortunately has become the mass-public's understanding of the term "emo".

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of Hardcore Punk originating in the early '80s and developing into a Pop-Punk/Alternative Rock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the 90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard Punk Rock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality. Particularly in the 90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation. The Main/TurnOfTheMillennium also saw the term take on a quite different meaning, with the emergence of 'Emo pop' bands such as My Chemical Romance and Fall-Out Boy, and an associated loose subculture that has since become archetypal of the decade.

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of Hardcore Punk originating in the early '80s and developing into a Pop-Punk/Alternative Rock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the 90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard Punk Rock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality. Particularly in the 90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation. Main/TheNewMillennium also saw the term take on a quite different meaning, with the emergence of 'Emo pop' bands such as My Chemical Romance and Fall-Out Boy, and an associated loose subculture that has since become archetypal of the decade.

Originally short for [[EmoMusic Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of Hardcore Punk originating in the early '80s and developing into a Pop-Punk/Alternative Rock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the 90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard Punk Rock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality. Particularly in the 90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation.

# A vain, trend-hopping teenager ''faking'' being one or both of the previous types to [[TroubledButCute appear cool/individual/alternative]], and because it's currently fashionable. This type is usually a teenager who, up until they discovered the "emo trend", was a pretty normal kid who had no problems fitting in, never worried or angsted excessively, and had no interest in poetry/writing, etc. and had no problems with depression. Yet suddenly they throw on some skinny jeans and eyeliner and insist they're a miserable, misunderstood loner. This trope is more commonly applied in Real Life than in fiction, but unfortunately has become the mass-public's understanding of the term "emo".

## A fan of [[EmoMusic emotive hardcore and/or emo music]]. Such a character stereotypically will be a somewhat shy, excessively thoughtful, hyper-emotional, uniquely sensitive and introspective misfit, but not necessarily. They may simply enjoy the music and scene. Their love of an unashamedly emotive genre, however, will likely suggest a generally sensitive, emotionally-aware, and good-natured individual, at the least. As "emo" has become less and less recognized in relation to its musical roots, this (its original characterization) is rarely used except by those informed on emo's history.

## A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, EmoMusic. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is deemed "normal". When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope. Though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behavior for that character]]. For a character to be considered "emo", though, such behavior should be a common attribute in their characterization.

## A vain, trend-hopping teenager ''faking'' being one or both of the previous types to [[TroubledButCute appear cool/individual/alternative]], and because it's currently fashionable. This type is usually a teenager who, up until they discovered the "emo trend", was a pretty normal kid who had no problems fitting in, never worried or angsted excessively, and had no interest in poetry/writing, etc. and had no problems with depression. Yet suddenly they throw on some skinny jeans and eyeliner and insist they're a miserable, misunderstood loner. This trope is more commonly applied in Real Life than in fiction, but unfortunately has become the mass-public's understanding of the term "emo".

1) A fan of [[EmoMusic emotive hardcore and/or emo music]]. Such a character stereotypically will be a somewhat shy, excessively thoughtful, hyper-emotional, uniquely sensitive and introspective misfit, but not necessarily. They may simply enjoy the music and scene. Their love of an unashamedly emotive genre, however, will likely suggest a generally sensitive, emotionally-aware, and good-natured individual, at the least. As "emo" has become less and less recognized in relation to its musical roots, this (its original characterization) is rarely used except by those informed on emo's history.

2) A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, EmoMusic. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is deemed "normal". When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope. Though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behavior for that character]]. For a character to be considered "emo", though, such behavior should be a common attribute in their characterization.

3) A vain, trend-hopping teenager FAKING being 1) and/or 2) to [[TroubledButCute appear cool/individual/alternative]], and because it's currently fashionable. This type is usually a teenager who, up until they discovered the "emo trend", was a pretty normal kid who had no problems fitting in, never worried or angsted excessively, and had no interest in poetry/writing, etc. and had no problems with depression. Yet suddenly they throw on some skinny jeans and eyeliner and insist they're a miserable, misunderstood loner. This trope is more commonly applied in Real Life than in fiction, but unfortunately has become the mass-public's understanding of the term "emo".

Not to be confused with comedian Creator/EmoPhillips, nor with Emo, County Laois. And especially not to be confused with {{Goth}}s. Whilst certain elements of the Emo and Goth scenes share some common fashion, and while Goths also come across as introverted and moody, the Goth is usually more cerebral, and generally not seen as emotional. [[EmotionlessGirl Quite the opposite, in fact]]. See {{EmoTeen}} for the portrayal of the subculture in fiction, and {{Wangst}} for characters felt to push this to the extreme.

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe general teenage self-absorption in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct caused by the mass commercialization of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may, however, also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to both music-based subcultures and personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorbtion, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[NoSympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is highly subjective (YMMV); one persons genuine angst is another's {{Wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people are just naturally inclined to angst, over-think, be withdrawn but over-sensitive, etc.

2) A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, EmoMusic. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is deemed "normal". When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope. Though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behaviour for that character]]. For a character to be considered "emo", though, such behaviour should be a common attribute in their characterization.

3) A vain, trend-hopping teenager FAKING being 1) and/or 2) to [[TroubledButCute appear cool/individual/alternative]], and because it's currently fashionable. This type is usually a teenager who, up until they discovered the "emo trend", was a pretty normal kid who had no problems fitting in, never worried or angsted excessively, and had no interest in poetry/writing, etc. and had no problems with depression. Yet suddenly they throw on some skinny jeans and eyeliner and insist they're a miserable, misunderstood loner. This trope is more commonly applied in Real Life than in fiction, but unfortunately has become the mass-public's understanding of the term, "emo".

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe general teenage self-absorbtion in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct caused by the mass commercialization of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may, however, also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to both music-based subcultures and personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorbtion, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[NoSympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is highly subjective (YMMV); one persons genuine angst is another's {{Wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people are just naturally inclined to angst, over-think, be withdrawn but over-sensitive, etc.

Not to be confused with comedian Creator/EmoPhillips, nor with Emo, County Laois. And especially not to be confused with {{Goth}}s. Whilst certain elements of the Emo and Goth scenes share some common fashion, and while Goth's also come across as introverted and moody, the Goth is usually more cerebral, and generally not seen as emotional. [[EmotionlessGirl Quite the opposite, in fact]]. See {{EmoTeen}} for the portrayal of the subculture in fiction, and {{Wangst}} for characters felt to push this to the extreme.

Originally short for [[Music/{{Emo}} Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of Hardcore Punk originating in the early 80s and developing into a Pop-Punk/Alternative Rock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the 90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard Punk Rock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware, contemplative and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality. Particularly in the 90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity, and alienation.

1) A fan of [[Music/{{Emo}} emotive hardcore and/or emo music]]. Such a character stereotypically will be a somewhat shy, excessively thoughtful, hyper-emotional, uniquely sensitive and introspective misfit, but not necessarily. They may simply enjoy the music and scene. Their love of an unashamedly emotive genre, however, will likely suggest a generally sensitive, emotionally-aware, and good-natured individual, at the least. As "emo" has become less and less recognized in relation to its musical roots, this (its original characterization) is rarely used except by those informed on emo's history.

2) A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, [[Music/{{Emo}} emo music]]. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is deemed "normal". When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope. Though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behaviour for that character]]. For a character to be considered "emo", though, such behaviour should be a common attribute in their characterization.

[[quoteright:184:http://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/chugworth-304.jpg]]

->"And I don't know God
->And I don't anyone
->And I don't know God
->And I don't know if anything at all will be all right
->I've got my hands on the one hand,
->but I don't know where to put them."

Currently, "emo" is dismissively assumed to be an insincere affectation for largely image-based reasons by attention-seeking teenagers. In this usage, it oxymoronically refers to a youngster who in fact displays a fairly narrow range of emotion, all of it negative and most of it {{Wangst}}y. Many depictions of these so-called "emos" also have them fascinated by issues such as self-harming and suicide, not necessarily because they are suffering from any of the ''genuine'' problems or issues regarding depression or such that often drive people to such acts, but out of a misplaced and slightly worrying fascination with the 'glamour' supposedly inherent within these acts. As a result, the standard, modern stereotype of an Emo is that of a self-pitying poseur; someone who adopts a superficial facade [[TroubledButCute exploiting genuine problems and painful issues in order to appear cool]], trendy, and to belong to the sub-culture.

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe general teenage self-absorbtion in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct since the mass commercialisation of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may however also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to both music-based subcultures and personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorbtion, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[NoSympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is highly subjective (YMMV); one persons genuine angst is another's {{Wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people are just naturally inclined to angst, over-think, be withdrawn but over-sensitive, etc.

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe general teenage self-absorbtion in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct since the mass commercialisation of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may however also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to both music-based subcultures and personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorbtion, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[No Sympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is highly subjective (YMMV); one persons genuine angst is another's {{Wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people are just naturally inclined to angst, over-think, be withdrawn but over-sensitive, etc.

2) A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, [[Music/Emo emo music]]. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is [[YMMV deemed "normal"]]. When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope. Though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behaviour for that character]]. For a character to be considered "emo", though, such behaviour should be a common attribute in their characterization.

The emo fanbase came to be known as "Emo Kids", or just "Emos". Due to the nature of the music, young people or a similar disposition and attitude were attracted to the Scene, and the idea of "being emo" took on a personality of its own, reflecting the nature of the music. "Emo" thus came to suggest an individual (usually young) of a uniquely sensitive, introspective, moody, insecure, "deep", and often melancholic disposition; usually a social misfit with low self-esteem and a bent towards the artistic/literary, prone to taking issues more seriously and personally than considered "normal". Emo has since undergone considerable {{Flanderization}} and has become a victim of {{Cowboy Bebop At His Computer}}, particularly since the mid 2000s when the term began to be used (often erroneously) by the mainstream and uninformed media. As a result, "emo" has become a generic and ill-defined mish-mash of alternative, music-related youth cultures and scenes with little in common with its source.

Currently, "emo" is dismissively assumed to be an insincere affectation for largely image-based reasons by attention-seeking teenagers. In this usage, it oxymoronically refers to a youngster who in fact displays a fairly narrow range of emotion, all of it negative and most of it {{Wangst}}y. Many depictions of these so-called "Emos" also have them fascinated by issues such as self-harming and suicide, not necessarily because they are suffering from any of the ''genuine'' problems or issues regarding depression or such that often drive people to such acts, but out of a misplaced and slightly worrying fascination with the 'glamour' supposedly inherent within these acts. As a result, the standard, modern stereotype of an Emo is that of a self-pitying poseur; someone who adopts a superficial facade [[TroubledButCute exploiting genuine problems and painful issues in order to appear cool]], trendy, and to belong to the sub-culture.

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe {{wangst}} and general teenage self-absorbtion in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct since the mass commercialisation of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may however also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorbtion, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional, and conflicted/troubled traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[No Sympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is highly subjective (YMMV); one persons genuine angst is another's {{Wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people are just naturally inclined to angst, over-think, be withdrawn but over-sensitive, etc.

2) A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, [[Music/Emo emo music]]. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is [[YMMV deemed "normal"]]. When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope, though naturally this is highly open to subjective interpretation. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behaviour for that character]].

3) A vain, trend-hopping teenager FAKING being 1) and/or 2) to [[TroubledButCute appear cool/individual/alternative]] and because it's currently fashionable. This type is usually a teenager who, up until they discovered the "emo trend", was a pretty normal kid who had no problems fitting in, never worried or angsted excessively, and had no interest in poetry/writing, etc. and had no problems with depression. Yet suddenly they throw on some skinny jeans and eyeliner and insist they're a miserable, misunderstood loner. This trope is more commonly applied in Real Life than in fiction, but unfortunately has become the mass-public's understanding of the term, "emo".

->And I don't anyone
->And I don't know God

->but I don't know where to put them.

Still, while "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe {{wangst}} and general teenage self-absorbtion in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct since the mass commercialisation of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may however also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorbtion, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such introverted, emotional, and conflicted/troubled traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[No Sympathy with intolerance]]. What constitutes a genuine "reason" to angst or over-think is [[YMMV highly subjective]]; one persons genuine angst is another's {{Wangst}}. Nevertheless, some people just naturally angst, over-think, are withdrawn but over-sensitive.

1) A fan of [[Music/Emo emotive hardcore and/or emo music]]. Such a character stereotypically will be a somewhat shy, excessively thoughtful, hyper-emotional, uniquely sensitive and introspective misfit, but not necessarily. They may simply enjoy the music and scene. Their love of an unashamedly emotive genre, however, will likely suggest a generally sensitive, emotionally-aware, and good-natured individual, at the least. As "emo" has become less and less recognized in relation to its musical roots, this (its original characterization) is rarely used except by those informed on emo's history.

2) A person characterized as having an "emo personality". This person may or may not be a fan of the music genre or scene, but may be considered as being "naturally emo", having personality traits common to fans of, and reflected in, [[Music/Emo emo music]]. That is an introverted, highly sensitive, often awkward, insecure misfit with a tendency to angst more than is [[YMMV deemed "normal"]]. When a character in fiction is deemed "emo", it is usually based in this trope, though naturally this is highly open to [[YMMV subjective interpretation]]. Some will deem [[NoSympathy any degree of emoting or angst as "emo", regardless of whether it is common behaviour for that character]].

->''"I stole some pins from the noticeboard''
->''And pressed them into my skin''
->''And they spelled 'why?'''
->''Why did they spell 'why'?''
->''Because there weren't enough pins for 'oblivion'."''
-->-- '''BillBailey''', "[[ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin The Song Written From The Perspective Of A Young Man Who Works At Starbucks And Self-Harms]]"

"Emo" was originally short for [[Music/{{Emo}} Emotive Hardcore]], a sub-genre of Hardcore Punk originating in the early 80s and developing into a Pop-Punk/Alternative Rock movement generally referred to purely as "Emo" in the 90s. Notable for distancing itself from the anti-authority, anarchic aggression of standard Punk Rock, "Emotive Hardcore" sought to express a more varied, emotionally-aware and introspective range of ideas via the stripped down, DIY punk mentality. Particularly in the 90s and onwards, this philosophy turned itself to expressions of heart-on-sleeve feelings, often pertaining to unrequited love, feelings of insecurity and alienation. The archetypical traits of the music (and naturally of the fan-base attracted to said music) included excessive introspection, angst, self-reflection, over-sensitivity, hyper-emotionality, insecurity, and a quiet melancholy. "Emo" thus came to suggest an individual (usually young) of a uniquely sensitive, introspective, moody, "deep", and often melancholic disposition, usually a misfit with a bent towards the artistic and prone to taking issues more seriously and personally than considered "normal". Emo has since undergone considerable {{Flanderization}} and has become a victim of {{Cowboy Bebop At His Computer}}, particularly since the mid 2000s when the term began to be used (often erroneously) by the mainstream and uninformed media. As a result, "emo" has become a generic mish-mash of alternative, music-related youth cultures and scenes with little in common with its source.

Currently, "emo" is dismissively assumed to be an insincere affectation for largely image-based reasons. This is essentially a {{Strawman}}, though is still [[TruthInTelevision often true of many teenagers adopting the persona as a trend]]. In this usage, it oxymoronically refers to a youngster who displays a fairly narrow range of emotion, all of it negative and most of it {{Wangst}}y. These so-called "emo's" posts and commentary (mostly [[EmoTeen teen]]), consist of litanies about things wrong with the world and their own lives. In some depictions (and, let's face it, ([[TruthInTelevision real life cases]]), the issues that the individual is 'suffering' through are [[AngstDissonance really rather minor and / or insignificant]] in eyes of most people, their response to said issues is often seen as quite over-the-top and unnecessarily exaggerated, and they are often shown to be severely lacking in perspective. Many depictions of Emos also have them fascinated by issues such as self-harming and suicide, not necessarily because they are suffering from any of the ''genuine'' problems or issues regarding depression or such that often drive people to such acts, but out of a misplaced and slightly worrying fascination with the 'glamour' supposedly inherent within these acts. As a result, the standard, modern stereotype of an Emo is that of a self-pitying poseur; someone who adopts a superficial facade exploiting genuine problems and painful issues in order to appear cool, trendy, and to belong to the sub-culture.

While "emo" has erroneously become a catch-all term to describe {{wangst}} and general teenage self-absorbtion in the mind of the mass-public, it does not inherently entail "affected behaviour" "posing", or "attention-seeking". This assumption is a largely modern construct since the mass commercialisation of the term during the mid 2000s and the scores of teens who DO affect such behaviour in order to appear "emo" for fashion purposes. Due to this mass misappropriation, "emo" will frequently be used this way and attracts considerable (and in the cases outlined in the above paragraph, understandable) derision. "Emo" may however also be used as its original descriptor when pertaining to personality; to refer to an often shy, sensitive individual who displays a higher level of introspection, self-reflection/absorbtion, angst (be it {{Wangst}} or justified angst), or other such "introverted, emotional and troubled" traits than is considered standard in their situation. Even in genuine, non-affected cases, these traits may invite derision as the emotional and mental concerns of others are frequently treated [[No Sympathy with intolerance]]. The {{No Sympathy}} trope makes it very hard to discern between genuine "Emo Kids" expressing themselves and finding a sense of self-actualization through subculture identification, and the more common trend-hopping poser affecting such behaviour to look "cool".

Ultimately these are the two possible characterizations for an "Emo (Kid)":

1) a somewhat shy, excessively thoughtful, hyper-emotional, uniquely sensitive and introspective misfit with a penchant for brooding and taking things way too seriously. They will be a fan of emotive alternative rock and punk and will likely possess a stylish, if somewhat self-deprecating, dress-sense.

2) a vain, trend-hopping teenager FAKING being 1) to appear cool/individual/alternative and because 1) is currently perceived as chic.

The former possesses a personality genuinely reflected by the emo archetype, and may have found security, identity, and self-actualization within the subculture and music. This individual, whilst potentially still attracting mockery and derision for their perceived over-sensitivity and introspection, is not affecting their behaviour. The latter is essentially a Scene Kid affecting an "emo" personality for attention because it's the "in thing." Both types may "dress emo", and listen to "emo music". It is likely, however, that the more effort and concern put into "appearing emo", and the less interest the more stereotyped and forced their "angst", the more insincere and superficial that individual will be. Though impossible to discern at a glance, a 5 minute conversation should expose the posers from the genuine articles.

The broad and loosely-defined music genre often referred to as "emo" (short for "emotive hardcore", the source of the term), is rapidly (and erroneously) turning into a catch-all term for pop-punk (particularly pop-punk with a horror-core/goth-tinged image) despite the music itself possessing little if any resemblance to the "emo" music it was named for. Originally "emo" music was diverse and varied in its style, but usually characterized by intimate, confessional lyrics set to a low-key, punkish sound, injecting heart-on-sleeve emotion into a previously hostile and aggressive genre. However, as the popularity of more emotionally-charged pop-punk rose, music-journalists looking for a tag for this new rock movement happened across the "emo" term and erroneously began to refer to all bands working the scene as "emo". As bands like MCR and Fallout Boy (not strictly "emo bands" themselves, but bands that moved in the same music-circles as "emo bands") gained mainstream appeal, so too did the misappropriated label of "emo" on bands that really weren't emo in the slightest (Panic At The Disco) until the term had lost all relevance as a descriptor. More recently the term "Emo-Pop" has come into usage to distinguish the genuine "emo" of the 90s and 2000s from the modern, scene-influenced pop-punk that brought the term "emo" into the mainstream (albeit misappropriated.)

Not to be confused with comedian Creator/EmoPhillips, nor with Emo, County Laois. And especially not to be confused with {{Goth}}s. Both Emos and Goths will tear you up if you confuse one with the other. See {{EmoTeen}} for the portrayal of the subculture in fiction, and {{Wangst}} for characters felt to push this to the extreme.