"Dark Academia" or "Who Knew?"
I think it's hilarious that when I reached the status of "woman of a certain age" I should stumble upon a trending social media aesthetic that perfectly describes the lure I feel for dark-wood-paneled libraries, vintage typewriters, old books and ivy-bedecked universities.
aesthetics.fandom.com writes that "Dark Academia is a popular academic aesthetic that revolves around classic literature, the pursuit of self-discovery, and a general passion for knowledge and learning. Wikipedia adds, "the subculture also draws on idealized aesthetics of higher education and academia, often with books and libraries featuring prominently. Activities such as calligraphy, visits to museums, libraries, and coffee shops, as well as all-night studying sessions, are common among proponents."
Who knew that an old fossil like me, who has been a devotee of these things for decades, would turn out to be trendy for five minutes?
As it turns out, I've taken some photos over the years that capture my love of things bookish and well-- yes-- elitist. Here's me... all dark and academian.
All pictures taken by Robin Johnson with the exception of the two that are marked as "AI Art." Those were prompted by Robin Johnson.
