Nautical star tattoos have two very different meanings
The thing about symbols is that they change in meaning over the
years. Something that might have been highly charged half a century
ago may be relatively benign by today's standards. One such example
can be found in tattoos. The meaning of nautical star tattoos has
changed quite a bit over the past few decades.
Because the nautical star has such disparate meanings depending
on who you ask, the alleged history behind it can actually raise
some emotions. On one hand, you have the militaristic association,
as sailors depend on nautical stars to find their way. It was
protection against getting lost and for many a nautical star tattoo
serves as extension of this concept of guidance.
However, in the middle of the twentieth century, these tattoos
held quite a different meaning for an entirely different group of
the population. Perhaps it was because tattooing was thought to be a
masculine thing, but it's purported that small nautical stars
tattooed on the wrist identified a woman as a lesbian. A woman could
hide it by day with a watch or clothing, and in the evenings she'd
be able to identify other women who shared her preferences.
The history of the nautical star in tattoos is an interesting one
because these two vastly different uses. Some people who have one of
these tattoos assert that its association in the gay community is
mere myth while others believe in this wholeheartedly. It's just one
example of symbols changing in meaning over time.
About the Author:
Bob Whitehead is a successful freelance writer and publisher of
http://www.body-jewelry-useek.com. Body jewelry, piercing and tattooing information you seek to perfectly adorn your body.
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