The Misconception of 'Boomers': A Generation of Complex Nuance and Contribution
Is the label 'Boomer' an affront to an entire generation? Absolutely not. For decades, we've been fondly referred to as 'Baby Boomers.' It was a relief when people started dropping the 'baby' as we entered middle age, officially starting our 'Boomer' phase.
Being a Boomer means you're good-looking, funny, charming, intelligent, sophisticated, witty, and slightly prone to self-delusion. It's a term that shouldn't be taken lightly, as it highlights the essence of what it means to be a Boomer. While not everyone is fortunate enough to embody these qualities, most people recognize our value and appreciate the label. In fact, many people pretend to be Boomers, and I don't mind at all.
No, Boomers Are More Than Simply Labelled
No, the term 'Boomer' isn't just a fleeting label; it carries a weight of history and personal experience. For 20 years, Boomers used this term for themselves, until the realization dawned on 'Subsequent Generations' that the world had changed. By mentioning 'Boomers,' they unintentionally mentioned their 'age,' similar to how it was done during the G.I. Generation era. It's simply a fact that Boomers have aged remarkably well against the odds. Subsequent generations can't be blamed for thin skin over this realization.
The True Meaning of 'Boomer'
The label 'Boomer' is, in fact, a term of praise. It commemorates the sacrifices made by both Boomers and their progeny in the form of our 'returning soldiers from WWII and the Korean War.' These people sacrificed a significant part of their youth, allowing us to live in a free society, and often continuing to work to keep the Australian economy going while their menfolk were away at war. Baby Boomers are indeed a testament to the human instinct to perpetuate the species.
Evolution of Terms: From 'Ok Boomer' to Political Vehicles
The term 'Ok Boomer!' is particularly egregious, part of a broader industry of manufacturing new terms to express resentment or mere indignation. These new terms often have no organic connection to the experiences of those who use them, instead forming barriers and creating an ideological atmosphere. This is in stark contrast to the terms of the 1960s, which were more naturally derived from experiences or intended to establish a freer, more informal lifestyles.
For example, the 1960s counter-culture had terms like "groovy," "fab," and "cool," each reflecting the shared experience or misinterpretation of their times. Others used terms to differentiate themselves or to simply fit in with their peers. Today, terms like 'Ok Boomer' are overly contrived and politicized, serving more as vehicles of resentment and ideology than genuine expressions of experience or lifestyle.
Boomers, like any generation, have our flaws and have been criticized for various reasons. However, our attempts to navigate the circumstances we've found ourselves in are commendable, as is the case with any generation. The 1960s had its fair share of these manufactured terms, but the degree of rupture and political connotation seen today is unprecedented.