Jaqui (of any of the other Goths here), (a). Is Gothism (today) based upon despair? To my non-Goth eye it appears that it's not just an acceptance of death but that there's no hope for anything but temporary passing pleasures because death is inevitable. (b). If (a) is true, what is the appeal of Gothism to so many? I would think people would want a belief system that offers hope - either for a better life here or a better eternity? Or does Gothism perhaps suffer some of the same misfortunes as Christianity - there are some who act it, look it, and speak it because it's culturally cool (within their peer group) and then others who genuinely believe in it? I ask because I genuinely want to understand. I know things are not always what they seem. If this is too likely to get into forum silliness, feel free to email me. I know this is potentially OT and my goal is not to start a major religious discussion here. There is a time to pun, and a time to speak. However, most of the time, it's time to listen.

Before they made me they broke the mold!
http://home.roadrunner.com/~kflach/