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Street cred. Anybody who got in before ’97 is considered…

“Street cred. Anybody who got in before ’97 is considered OK – from ’97 to 2000 it can go either way, maybe they’re not not always cool, but usually they’re not quite the kind of full-service dickhead you’re seeing in the business now.” “He’s considered cool?” “No, he’s a dickhead, but one of the…” quote by Thomas Pynchon
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““Street cred. Anybody who got in before ’97 is considered OK – from ’97 to 2000 it can go either way, maybe they’re not not always cool, but usually they’re not quite the kind of full-service dickhead you’re seeing in the business now.” “He’s considered cool?” “No, he’s a dickhead, but one of the early ones. A pioneer dickhead.””

Thomas Pynchon

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote satirically critiques how early adopters of a subculture can be seen as authentic, while later participants may be viewed as inauthentic or overly commercial.

In simple terms: Early members are seen as authentic; later ones as sellouts.

Key Takeaway

Question authenticity over time.

Themes

culture authenticity subculture elitism commercialization

Mood

cynical ironic critical

Type

observation satire

When to use this quote

  • music scenes
  • online communities
  • fashion trends
  • startup ecosystems

Key Concepts

Social capital cultural capital authenticity subcultural dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does a community decide who is truly authentic?
  • When does pioneering become just being a dickhead?
A Different Perspective

Early credibility can be co-opted and lose meaning.

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