Macabre Addiction

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona

The new year has begun and all eyes are focused on the recent shooting of a Congresswoman in Arizona. Geez, we hardly get going with our New Year Resolutions – to do better, to do good, to lose weight when whamo – the news turns from celebrations to mass murder.  

Again, this shooting involved a young single male who was rebellious and had a morbid interest in violence. The news showed pictures of his altar complete with a skull and candles. This young adult had a fascination with the darkness and the macabre.  

What is the macabre? 

According to my computer Word reference tools, synonyms of the word macabre are morbid, cadaverous, horrific, chilling, ghastly, gruesome, grisly, morbid and deathly.

I am noticing an increasing interest in things of the macabre.  I would go so far to say that there is an actual “macabre addiction.”

Rep Gifford's first photo after the shooting.

Let me define macabre addiction:

“Macabre Addiction is an obsessive fascination with violence, death and gore.”

In the past, lyrics in popular music were about relationship and yes, rebellion.  Have you noticed in the past 10 – 15 years more popular songs have violent lyrics?  Some genres of music focus solely on topics like killing, blood, and gore, death, guns and violence.

There is an entire community listening to a music genre called Death Metal, which glorifies dark lyrics, which focus on death, gore and violence.  If you do not believe me go to a music store and check out the top rated albums.  Gangsta rap is also popular and a genre focused on violence.

It may be true that music and movies are a reflection of the culture.  I believe music and movies influence the culture.

Is it possible to have music and movies with positive and healthy messages?  What role do we play in making a change for peaceful relationships?  What can I do? What can you do?  Think about it. In the days to come, what can you do to bring a positive message and hope to the people around you?

Shootings continue to happen. Just last Friday a 24 year old doctoral student shot over 70 innocent strangers inside a movie theater - killing 12 people including children.  

Who will stand up and fight for wholesome entertainment and a kinder and gentler society?

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