2.3 The Meaning of “Punk”

There’s been much discussion in the Dieselpunk community about the use of the suffix “Punk.” Punk Punk adds several elements to Dieselpunk.

The – punk suffix allows for twisting and mixing. The Punk component allows for alternative history, horror, science fiction, and more.

Also, the Punk in Dieselpunk is a postmodern phenomenon emphasizing the poststructuralist aspect that, rather than a metanarrative, involves a first-person narrative. The individual reconstructs or reimagines the source material, and consciously intends to blend this inspiration with a contemporary idea or style.

Finally, the –punk suffix reflects a counter-cultural attitude of dissatisfaction with contemporary society and displays that discontent in how the person celebrates Dieselpunk individually and within the community.

(Updated 01/13/2021)

Hans Behrendt, Atlas supporting the heavens in “Potsdam” (1927)