Gabe began wearing eye makeup, specifically black eyeliner, as a way to express his grief and mourning after his father passed away. This correlation between his father’s death and his decision to wear makeup is significant, as it shows that he used this form of self-expression as a way to cope with his loss.
The act of wearing makeup, especially in alternative or non-traditional styles, can often carry symbolic meaning. In Gabe’s case, the black eyeliner served as a visual representation of his mourning period. It was a way for him to outwardly display his internal emotions and pay tribute to his father’s memory.
Wearing makeup can be a deeply personal and individual choice. It allows individuals like Gabe to explore their identity, express their creativity, and challenge societal norms. In this particular instance, Gabe’s decision to wear makeup was not for the purpose of conforming to any specific gender expression or identity but rather to express his grief.
It’s important to note that grief is a complex and multifaceted emotion, and people cope with it in various ways. Gabe’s choice to wear makeup as a means of mourning is a unique and personal expression that allowed him to process his emotions.
Additionally, the act of wearing makeup can provide a sense of control and empowerment during times of loss. It allows individuals to assert their agency in their own healing process and create a visual representation of their emotions. For Gabe, wearing black eyeliner may have served as a daily reminder of his father’s absence and a way to honor his memory.
It’s worth mentioning that societal attitudes towards men wearing makeup have evolved over time. While there may still be some lingering stereotypes and prejudices, many people now embrace and celebrate diverse forms of self-expression, including men wearing makeup. This shift in societal acceptance may have also influenced Gabe’s decision to freely express himself through his choice of makeup.
Gabe’s decision to wear black eyeliner after his father’s passing was a personal expression of grief and mourning. By using makeup as a form of self-expression, he was able to visually convey his emotions and pay tribute to his father’s memory. This correlation highlights the power of personal expression and how it can serve as a coping mechanism during times of loss.