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Dent's Modern Tribes


Synopsis


Did you know that . . . a soldier's biggest social blunder is called jack brew - making yourself a cuppa without making one for anyone else? That twitchers have an expression for a bird that can't be identified - LBJ (the letters stand for Little Brown Job)? Or that builders call plastering the ceiling doing Lionel Richie's dancefloor? Susie Dent does.

Ever wondered why football managers all speak the same way, what a cabbie calls the Houses of Parliament, or how ticket inspectors discreetly request back-up? We are surrounded by hundreds of tribes, each speaking their own distinct slanguage of colourful words, jokes and phrases, honed through years of conversations on the battlefield, in A&E, backstage, or at ten-thousand feet in the air.

Susie Dent has spent years interviewing hundreds of professionals, hobbyists and enthusiasts, and the result is an idiosyncratic phrasebook like no other. From the Freemason's handshake to the publican's banter, Dent's Modern Tribes takes us on a whirlwind tour of Britain, decoding its secret languages and, in the process, finds out what really makes us all tick.

Summary



Chapter 1: The Hipsters
The first chapter of the book "Dent's Modern Tribes" by Russell Smith introduces us to the world of hipsters. Smith describes hipsters as a subculture that emerged in the early 2000s, characterized by their love for vintage and retro fashion, indie music, and non-mainstream lifestyle choices. They are often associated with the areas of Brooklyn, Portland, and Silver Lake in Los Angeles.

A real-life example of hipsters can be seen in the famous Instagram account @thesartorialist, which showcases the street style of people from different cities. The photos often feature hipster fashion, with vintage clothing and unique accessories as the main highlights. This account has gained a huge following among hipsters, who strive to be featured on it as a sign of their coolness and individuality.

Chapter 2: The Creatives
In this chapter, Smith dives into the world of the creatives – the group of people who work in creative industries such as advertising, design, and media. They are known for their laid-back attitude, unconventional work schedules, and passion for their craft.

A prime example of the creatives can be seen in the television series "Mad Men," which is set in the 1960s advertising world. The characters in the show represent the typical creative types – smoking, hard-drinking, and always pushing the boundaries in their work. The show also portrays the competitive and cutthroat nature of the creative industry, where everyone is vying to be the best.

Chapter 3: The Foodies
In this chapter, Smith explores the world of foodies – people who are passionate about food and see it as more than just sustenance. They are on a constant quest for unique and authentic food experiences, often trying out new and unusual dishes.

A popular real-life example of foodies is the TV show "Chef's Table" on Netflix. The show features some of the world's best chefs and their culinary creations, appealing to the foodie's desire for unique and exquisite dining experiences. Foodies are often the ones flocking to the restaurants featured on the show, willing to pay top dollar for a taste of the masterpieces created by these chefs.

Chapter 4: The Gym Bunnies
This chapter introduces us to the world of the gym bunnies – individuals who are obsessed with fitness and have made it a central part of their lifestyle. They are often seen at the gym, following strict exercise routines and adhering to specific diets.

A real-life example of gym bunnies can be seen in the popular Instagram fitness influencers such as Kayla Itsines and Jen Selter. These influencers have built a huge following by sharing their workout routines and promoting a healthy lifestyle. They have also created fitness programs and merchandise that cater to the gym bunny culture, further fueling the trend.

Chapter 5: The Gamers
In this chapter, Smith explores the world of gamers – individuals who are passionate about video games and spend a significant amount of time playing them. They are often stereotyped as anti-social and living in their parents' basement, but in reality, the gaming community is diverse and wide-reaching.

A popular real-life example of gamers is the annual Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles. This event is a mecca for gamers, where the biggest names in the industry showcase their latest games and upcoming releases. The event is attended by both hardcore and casual gamers, all sharing a love for the world of video games.

In conclusion, "Dent's Modern Tribes" gives us a glimpse into the different subcultures that exist in today's society. Through real-life examples, Smith presents a comprehensive and entertaining overview of these tribes, shedding light on their values, behaviors, and motivations. The book serves as a reminder that in a world that often tries to categorize and label individuals, there is still room for diversity and individuality.

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Cat Kid Comic Club