Delving into the subculture claimed by second-generation Indian Americans, Sunaina Maira explains the reasoning behind music that combines what is considered traditionally Indian, and that which is unmistakably American. Dichotomous music (and clothing) signifies an appreciation for parts of the past culture with the claim of a new (borrowed) one to differentiate themselves. Schisms seem to be a theme in this subculture. For example, there is a fine line for girls between being trashy (too American) or reserved (too traditional) and between being too preppy or too hood.
Discussion Question: Maira refers to the early Birmingham theorist notions that "youth cultures attempt to symbolically resolve tensions between larger group group cultures to which they belong and their own generational concerns." Is this true for this particular subculture? Other subcultures?
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