The Few, the Proud, the Crucial
Originally Published: Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Written by: Erik LaBranche
Understanding the Straightedge Movement
Being straightedge, one question I have faced often is “Why are you straightedge, and not just drug-free, what’s the difference?” Due to the frequency that I have encountered this query I have given it some lengthy thought. I realized that straightedge is quite a large movement with many different factions; so what allows all of them to claim to be part of the same movement? There must be a common element.
The Significance of the Three Xs
Many would say that the common element is the three Xs that tie all straightedgers together; however, there is a great deal of debate among edgers about what these Xs mean. There are those who believe that promiscuous sex has nothing to do with being edge. Often, in this case, the three things that are to be abstained from are cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs. Then, on the same token, there are those that believe that abstinence, or at least until marriage, is part of being edge. Also, there is a whole spectrum of stances in between on this issue. There is also frequently debate on what is a drug and what is not. So, I guess since we can’t agree on what the three Xs stand for, that can’t be the binding component.
Music and the Straightedge Culture
Well, what about the music, or the scene. Well, this can be quickly be ruled out because there are many hardcore bands and kids who claim edge along with band and kids into punk, ska, screamo, etc. While some of those in certain genres may say those in others aren’t really edge, they can’t deny their commitment to it. Therefore, it would seem that a specific musical genre isn’t necessarily the requisite to be edge.
Commitment: True ‘til Death?
A strong argument could be made that it’s the idea of “true ‘til death.” The idea that one is committed to being edge for life; however, this is clearly not taken so seriously by everyone, since I’m sure many people who will read this can think of at least one person that “broke edge.” This doesn’t mean that these people were never edging. Their ideals changed, their life took them someplace they did not foresee. Whatever the case, they were dedicated to straightedge and now they aren’t. I, myself, can say that I feel quite confident that I will never engage in the vices that straightedge is against due to my lifestyle and beliefs; however, I have much life ahead of me and do not know what exactly it will bring me. Therefore, I don’t say that I know that I will never take part in any of the 3 Xs, because I may be incredibly confident but I don’t know. Therefore, this isn’t the factor that makes us all straightedge.
Pride: The Unifying Thread
In my opinion, the common thread is pride. We all are damn proud to be straightedge. We aren’t embarrassed about and proclaim loud and true our commitment when confronted about it. I mean, one can simply look at all the clothing and merchandise that is related to straightedge. Also, many bands tie themselves to straightedge with many songs about being edge and fully endorsing the lifestyle. X’s are used in the names of numerous straightedge bands, as well as the screen names of edgers.
The Role of Identity in Straightedge
People often ask “Why would you self-label yourself something?” The same reason a Christian calls him/herself a Christian or an Italian calls her/himself an Italian because s/he is proud of what that means. We are proud to be associated with straightedge. Our reasons for this may differ but we all have pride. Another obvious sign of this is a number of straightedge followers who get a permanent statement of their steadfastness by way of tattoos.
Straightedge vs. Drug-Free: A Matter of Pride
It seems obvious being part of straightedge is something of immense importance to those involved. To me, this is the definitive difference between straightedge and drug-free. One can be drug-free and not very proud of it. A person like this may simply avoid the subject. Also, a person can be drug-free out of fear of drugs and alcohol or risk in general. This is not an option in being edge; no one is edge out of fear.
The Complexity of Pride in Straightedge
This is not to say, though, that pride is the only thing that makes you edge. Obviously, other factors must be present such as the three Xs and the idea of planning on your edge being a long-lasting commit. Nevertheless, these things often mean different things to different people. Also, many might consider pride to be a negative thing, and indeed it can be. Stubborn pride can be quite a vice, especially when it over something petty. While this may be the type of pride some people take on towards straightedge, it is not necessarily the pervasive one.
My Commitment to Straightedge
I am merely trying to find something that does not change across the board for those involved with straightedge. I am damn proud of the promise I have made to myself and that is what makes me not just drug-free and unpromiscuous, but straightedge. It seems apparent to me that, even though they may not say it, many others feel the same way.
