Once Upon A Time There Was

 
The Hanky Code. We are often asked by customers buying wrist wallets, cockstraps, biceps bands and other colour-coded products what exactly the meanings are of the different colours. Just as often people probably walk out with a pretty red or yellow bracelet thingie, completely oblivious to the statement they are making. And that’s okay; the infamous hanky code was after all a product of the magical Seventies, and in these modern days of internet & wider acceptance, its usage has become almost more of a ritual, a symbol, or to many an affectation even. Right?
 
Maybe so, but to a lot of people, especially in certain segments of the - excusez le mot - gay scene still take it pretty damn seriously, and injudicious display of the colours could land you in awkward situations, and earn you a lot of angry looks. Besides, just because the Hanky Code has moved into the realm of ritual & tradition, doesn’t mean it is no longer important. A (sub)culture is defined by its traditions & rituals. If anything , when it comes to our sense of cultural identity, they are more important than the mere practical trappings.
 
So if you do decide to add a splash of colour & delve into the seedy (no pun intended) underbelly (again, not intended) of gay culture, take the time to learn what is what, if only out of respect for your fellow men.