Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Bohemian Manifesto

"Don't call me before noon, man."
-Cody
Just as much stereotyped as Goths, Cowboys, and people who wear glasses, Bohemians have been expected to be dirty, hoboish and especially weird. Much to some surprise and entertainment, there are many types and all are very distinct in their actions, dress, literature, and even hygiene. Again another glorious book written by the one and only Loren Stover:
Bohemian Manifesto
A Field Guide To Living On The Edge
Again, another book I couldn't put down! From wine-drunk senses, gypsy skirts, snapping applause and the poetic soul, bohemians have been the navigator's of my imagination. I have always adored the mystery and smoke rings that seem to follow there very existence.
In this book you will find that not all bohemians are the same nor are they even alike. But to be honest, a TRUE bohemian is Always a mix, a "mutt" if you will. The author breaks them down into five specific general types: Nouveau, Gypsy, Beat, Zen and Dandy.
Nouveau is the rich bohemian. These dress and decorate with no conscience and no apology with their elaborate lamps and rugs, top hats and the top-of-the-line mulch. Their ideals are what make them bohemian. Earth-help funds, inspiration to and of spirits, FREEDOM.
Gypsy Bohemians have no money and take the time to enjoy what nature and the Earth gives them. Broke down on the side of the road because the car has a tendency to over-heat? Relax and enjoy the sun rays, maybe even get a tan while you walk to the near-by orchard and grab some lunch. With eccentric styles and not the best hygiene, these bohemians are the most laid back if not the laziest.
Now for the Beats. Created in the late 1950's with rebellion and poetry embedded in their blood, they wear all black, smoke cigarettes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and drink wine. Utopia-seekers with uncensored, unpublished manuscripts who have no problem taking off their clothes. What can I say but that they are free spirits with a reckless track history.
Yoga. Incense. Meditation. Completely engulfed in Indian, Japanese and Tibetan cultures and religions. Definitely the most "spiritual" of all bohemians, they rely on and crave "The Higher Plain" of life. Completely organic based and health nuts, they are also the most healthy of the bohemians. Whether it is metaphysical, environmental or both, you can bet that these bohemians are behind anything to better life for the Earth and for all.
Last but not least, the Dandy. Most polished of the bohemians, they resemble the Nouveaus but without any cash. Dressing as though they live in the Victorian era, thy thrive on thriftiness and antiques. Closets with fur coats from the Dumpster and make-up in all sample sizes, the Dandy has no interest in the "natural" look. Fond of the drink, the Dandy would mostly possess more unpopular drinks, they wouldn't dream of denying a beer if you offered.
With a fun quiz in the back and really cute art, The Bohemian Manifesto: A Field Guide To Living On The Edge is definitely a must-read for those who are wild and free at heart with a touch of poetic soul and a Utopian ideals! Enjoy.
"Create your own universe."
-Atlas

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Sounds fun! Have you read "Drop City?"

~Heidi
www.HeidiTown.com

Hannah Handpainted said...

Haha very cool. I always considered myself a bohemian but honestly I think I am just a bohemian lite. I'm an artist...a little bit hippie, a little bit suburban mom, a lot artist, intuitive...but have never really found a true 'category'. The closest thing I can come to is 'right-brained'...but that's very inexact. Still looks like a fun read! :) By the way, if this is Stephanie's blog it was fun meeting you at Healing Arts Medical Clinic today. I am sorry I didn't get to talk to you longer.

Big Hugs,

Uncle Hannah

http://HannahHandpainted.etsy.com