Sunday, June 13, 2010

On Tattoos

We've all seen tattoos of cartoon characters, tribal designs, and Chinese symbols - all trends of the moment that become just as hackneyed as the fashions of the last decade. Nonetheless, the tattoo remains. There are many sites online dedicated to bad tattoos, including those that are misspelled, poorly designed, and just plain dumb. As a lover of the human form, I find disastrous tattoos almost offensive.

In a way, they're ironic. Tattoos have become the calling card of individuality. Nothing can be more uniquely identifying than a tattoo and its placement, right? Well, in many ways, yes. But, really, no. How unique are butterflies, praying hands, and koi fish anymore? Above the ass? On the shoulder? Swimming up the thigh? Yeah, not that original anymore. Even neck tattoos evoke a slight yawning sensation in my diaphragm.