Semicolons, which have grown to be a significant symbol of mental health and resiliency over the years, are one common meaningful tattoo design. But what does a semicolon tattoo mean?
The simple answer is that a semicolon tattoo means that the person wearing it has overcome some sort of hardship in their life.
The semicolon has become a symbol of hope for people who have battled depression, anxiety, addiction, and other mental health issues.
Learn more about semicolon tattoos by reading on.
What Does a Semicolon Tattoo Mean?
In the context of grammar, a semicolon is used to combine two complete sentences that are related. In other words, even though the sentence is finished, a semicolon indicates that there is still more to say.
The mission of Project Semicolon, a nonprofit organization devoted to educating people about mental health, self-harm, suicide, and addiction, is embodied in that sentiment.
You are not required to get a semicolon tattoo due to its significance, but many people choose to do so in order to honor a friend, a relative, or even themselves, or to spread awareness.
A semicolon tattoo is more than just a visual representation; it’s often a conversation starter, so you can spread the word while rocking your cool tat.
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The History of the Semicolon Tattoo
The semicolon tattoo has a long and textured history, one that is often fraught with misunderstanding and controversy.
Despite being used for hundreds of years, tattoos of semicolons are only recently becoming more common. What is it about the semicolon that has garnered such a following? Let’s take a closer look
The semicolon is a punctuation mark that is used to denote a pause in a sentence. It is frequently used when a sentence that should have continued but didn’t is interrupted. By doing this, you can convey feeling or build tension.
For example: “She left the space, and I never saw her again.” Though the second sentence could be extended, the first sentence is finished. “We lost sight of her after she left the room. What took place to her is a mystery only to God.”
The semicolon tattoo can be seen as a symbol of hope. In the midst of life’s challenges, it stands for the notion that you can pause and carry on. You are made aware that there is always something to anticipate.
Another strength-related meaning of the semicolon tattoo is power. When things get difficult, it takes courage to keep going.
Pros and Cons of the Semicolon Tattoo
Many people claim that getting a tattoo is a great way to constantly remind yourself that you’ve overcome the trauma of mental illness and that you’re doing well. The idea behind the tattoo is that it will serve as a constant source of inspiration, a reminder that you are a survivor, and a gentle reminder to stop being so hard on yourself.
A semicolon’s symbolic meaning demonstrates that, despite what you may believe, life is only continuing even when it seems to be coming to an end.
But, there is also a different side to the story of the semicolon tattoo, and we think it is equally important to write about and share with our readers.
Unfortunately, there are people who thought that getting this tattoo would bring them peace, help others by sharing awareness and solidarity, and generally help them put a full stop to mental illness and a semicolon to their lives.
Many people believe that once you start feeling better, the tattoo will start to serve as a negative reminder even though the semicolon serves as a reminder that one is battling and surviving.
What can you do with the tattoo once the trauma of mental illness has subsided or passed? It ceases to be a symbol of your struggle and survival and serves as more of a sort of comforter. Your specific type of mental illness and your life’s crisis.
While for some this may still be motivating, many have said that they got rid of their semicolon tattoos because they wanted a fresh start in a new phase of their lives, free from any reminders of the struggle and mental illness.
Takeaway: What Does a Semicolon Tattoo Mean
While the meaning behind a semicolon tattoo may be personal to each individual, the overall message is one of hope and resilience.
The semicolon has become a symbol for those who have battled depression, anxiety, addiction, and other mental health issues; it is a reminder that even though their story could have ended there, they chose to continue on.
The semicolon tattoo is certain to spark conversations and promote open dialogue about mental health, whether you view it as a symbol of strength or just a love of punctuation.
FAQs
Is It Appropriate to Get a Semicolon Tattoo?
In order to show their support for these causes and to express their own unique stories of adversity and resiliency, many people decide to get semicolons tattooed on their bodies.
What Does a Semicolon Half Butterfly Tattoo Mean?
The semicolon butterfly tattoo is more than just a piece of body art; it is a declaration of solidarity and a reminder that even in our darkest hours, we have the power to change our lives and come out stronger.
