discouse commuity intro

Jeremy Creger

English 1510

11/07/2012

         Discourse communities have the ability to be seen as derogatory or obscene by non-members. The musical group Insane Clown Posse self proclaimed themselves as the “most hated band in the world”. Typically, having that negative label would worry members of that particular discourse. However, ICP feeds off of the negative energy of social media and other discourses, and embrace each other as one large family. Drugs, alcohol, and being free spirited are all stereotypes associated with the ICP family, although there are many members that are proud to say they are clean, and gather with others because of love and unity. Now, the illicit use of illegal drugs is wrong, but through ICP’s discourse, the community attempts to justify their use through strength in numbers and spiritual experiences. For this paper, I will be using a documentary American Juggalo, among other sources that give a detailed look inside the life of an ICP follower.

        When I first heard of ICP I thought of one word, ignorance. For anyone to actually enjoy the music that is considered demeaning to most seems reckless and confusing. But if there is one thing to learn about discourse communities as a whole, it’s that you can not judge a discourse from it’s reputation or it’s level of political correctness. Rather, take an in depth look and spend time with in that culture, then it is fair to form an opinion. In American Juggalo, it is quoted many times that the best part of being a juggalo is “family”. Not in the blood sense of the word, but rather a gathering of misfits, all accepting each other. Many Juggalo’s and Juggalet’s (women) have joined the gathering because of unfortunate life situations. This creates a big sense of pride for ICP followers, because even though they may come from different walks of life, if you prove your respect and love for others, it is likely you will be embraced as a juggalo.