The cult 'fans' at his shows are just a resource to feed his narcissism and re-assure him that he's an A-List 'star' like Elvis, Tom Jones and Marc Bolan were in their prime, rather than a fading C-List celeb who has manufactured this absurd panto-theatrical trope since his career started. The fans in this clip are being civilised and patient as they wait for a snip of the 'holy garment' (rollseyes), but like you many of us have seen oafish or psychotic fans fighting for their entitlement to a piece of 'holy relic', even if it means snatching it from someone who got it first. And even if it means hurting frail or vulnerable people, or those who are do not understand that the 'pit' as his shows is a pantomime prop contrived by Morrissey. Walk back 10 rows from the front and the Audience are enjoying the gig, knowing that they are safe from the disturbed 'fans' by the stage, lost in their co-dependent Cult Guru/Worshipper pantomime with Morrissey. It was amusing 30 years ago, now it's just pathetic to see balding middle-age men grasping for a shirt thrown by another balding middle-age man. Not because they're old, but because they often act like thug teenagers having a scrap by the taxi-rank.
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BB
I politely disagree with your argument. There is definitely an energy at Morrissey's shows. Fans want a part of the shirt to keep a piece of that energy alive--symbolically, perhaps. Who wouldn't want to keep positive emotions flowing? Morrissey offers many feelings of hope and validation (on many different themes). You might want to criticize this--but, from a psychological perspective (perhaps), if this "works"--then it should be allowed, right?
As far as Morrissey's needs and desires are concerned, I can't judge him. He is definitely
not a typical star at all. I do believe he suffered many years ago for many different reasons. His beliefs might not be popular, but I respect him for his conviction. His efforts towards animal rights are to be applauded. He is definitely not a narcissist. That being said, we all need some healthy and sane measure of narcissism (even if only on a very small level). Morrissey's fandom is devoted and unique and rare--very special to me.
My concern is that the shirt should not be an excuse to treat others poorly--as I have witnessed. I would love a shirt or a piece of it, but I am not going to scream, push, shove, hit, and elbow to get such a memento.
Lastly, Morrissey is inspiring! After many, many adult years as a devout Morrissey fan, I made my mind to "do" something with my fandom. I decided to return to school--graduate studies. I am pursuing a master's degree in English to study literature and eventually teach this inspiring subject. I am soon to graduate, and perhaps I can provide a small flicker of hope to a younger generation. All of this came from years of studying Morrissey's references and interests--as well as those of Natalie Merchant/10,000 Maniacs, R.E.M., and others.
