Bringing Back the “PUNK!” in Steampunk

What Is Punk?

At its core, punk is a cultural movement built on the pillars of rebellion, authenticity, and self-determination. Born in the 1970s as a response to mainstream excess and conformity, punk was never just about fast, loud music or ripped clothing. It was—and still is—a rallying cry for those who refuse to accept the status quo. Punk champions the do-it-yourself (DIY) ethic, encouraging people to create, modify, and share their own art, music (bands like The Sex Pistols, The Clash, and X-Ray Spex), writing, and fashion without waiting for permission from authorities or corporations.

This DIY attitude is inseparable from punk’s anti-authoritarian spirit. Punk communities flourish on the idea that anyone can participate, and everyone’s voice matters. Punk spaces—whether a basement show, a zine swap, or a protest—are about coming together to challenge power structures, support one another, and imagine more just and creative ways of being in the world.

What Is Steampunk?

Steampunk is a genre and aesthetic movement inspired by the technology, fashion, and social atmosphere of the Victorian era—reimagined through the lens of science fiction and fantasy. Imagine a world where steam engines never became obsolete, where airships fill the skies, and where inventors armed with brass gadgets and leather-bound notebooks dream up new futures.

But steampunk isn’t just about looks. At its inception, it was a form of speculative fiction that critiqued history, technology, and social hierarchies. Early steampunk stories, written by authors like K.W. Jeter, James Blaylock, and Tim Powers, used alternate histories to explore issues like imperialism, class struggle, and the dangers of unchecked industrialization. Steampunk’s “punk” suffix signaled an intent to subvert, question, and remix the past—rather than simply escape into nostalgia.

As the culture grew, steampunk expanded beyond literature into fashion, visual art, and the maker movement. It inspired people to craft their own costumes, modify gadgets, and build communities around shared creativity and retro-futurist dreams.

How Steampunk Lost Its Edge

Over time, however, much of the “punk” spirit began to fade from steampunk. As the genre gained popularity, the focus shifted from subversive storytelling and grassroots invention to visual spectacle and consumer-friendly nostalgia. Brass goggles, top hats, and elaborate costumes became the face of steampunk at conventions and in pop culture—but often without the underlying critique or creative revolt.

This process is sometimes called “gentrification,” where a once-radical movement is softened, sanitized, and repackaged for mass appeal. Instead of challenging Victorian-era imperialism, classism, or the perils of unchecked technology, steampunk often fell into the trap of romanticizing the very systems it once set out to question. The community, while still vibrant, sometimes became more about who had the most authentic costume or the biggest collection of props, rather than who had the boldest vision or the most inclusive event.

Reclaiming the Punk: Social and Community Building in Steampunk

To bring the punk back to steampunk, we need to re-center the movement around its original values of rebellion, inclusivity, and DIY culture—especially within our communities.

● Centering Marginalized Voices

True punk is about giving voice to the voiceless and challenging social hierarchies. In steampunk, this means telling stories and creating spaces that welcome those historically left out: people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, working-class folks, and others whose stories were erased or marginalized in Victorian times. Imagine a steampunk world where resistance is led by factory workers, colonized peoples, or inventors on the fringes of society. These narratives enrich the genre and make the community more welcoming and dynamic.

● DIY Ethic and Shared Creation

The DIY spirit is the lifeblood of both punk and steampunk. It’s about making your own costumes from thrifted or recycled materials, building gadgets from scavenged parts, and starting your own creative spaces, blogs, or webcomics. But it’s also about sharing knowledge and skills—hosting free workshops, publishing tutorials, and open-sourcing designs so others can join in. When everyone is empowered to create, the community grows stronger and more resilient.

● Activism and Mutual Support

Steampunk can be a powerful platform for activism. Organize meetups, maker fairs, or reading groups with a purpose—whether that’s climate action, labor rights, anti-racism, or another cause. Use the genre’s visual language to create protest art, stage flash mobs, or draw attention to social issues in creative ways. More importantly, build networks of mutual support: trade skills, organize childcare at events, fundraise for members in need, and make sure everyone feels welcome and safe.

● Inclusive and Participatory Events

Events are the beating heart of any community. To make steampunk truly punk, prioritize inclusivity and participation over exclusivity and competition. Host social meetups, collaborative art projects, and costume contests that reward creativity and resourcefulness—not just expensive materials or historical “accuracy.” Remember—steampunk is not historical reenactment. Invite speakers and panelists who challenge assumptions, and create spaces for honest discussion about the genre’s history and future. Most importantly, listen to feedback and adapt to the needs of your community.

● Building Solidarity Across Movements

Punk is about standing in solidarity—not just within your own scene, but across different communities. Connect with other DIY, activist, or creative groups. Share resources, collaborate on projects, and show up for each other’s events. By forging these connections, the steampunk community can amplify its impact and help build a broader culture of resistance and creativity.

The Future of Punk Steampunk

Reclaiming the punk in steampunk isn’t about rejecting fun or spectacle—it’s about making sure our creativity serves a deeper purpose. It’s about using the genre’s imaginative power to question, challenge, and change the world around us. By centering marginalized voices, reviving the DIY ethic, embracing activism, and building inclusive, participatory communities, we can restore steampunk’s radical edge.

So dust off your typewriter, raid the thrift store, and find your people. The future of steampunk is up for grabs—and with a little punk spirit, it can be as rebellious, inclusive, and transformative as we dare to imagine.