Exploring Bubblegum: A Candy in Its Own Right and Its Cultural Significance
Bubblegum, often considered a form of candy, plays a unique role in both American and international cultures. The spelling of the term is an interesting aspect that reflects societal norms and personal preferences. In this article, we will delve into the history of bubblegum, its spelling, and its cultural impact.
The Spelling of Bubblegum
The orthographic representation of bubblegum is a double-edged sword, with some objecting to the spelling change while others embrace it. Traditionally, the term was written as two separate words: “bubble gum”. However, as time passed, the single-word version bubblegum has become nearly ubiquitous.
A Google search reveals that bubblegum has over 78 million uses, while “bubble gum” is found only 98 times. This discrepancy indicates that bubblegum is the more common and accepted spelling. Even in the Associated Press Stylebook, it is recommended to spell the term as one word in cases where it functions as a compound adjective, such as Bubblegum Day.
Cultural Impact and Social Norms
The social expectation that bubblegum be written as a single word does not imply its rightness or wrongness. It's a standard that has evolved due to linguistic and social norms.
For instance, in the context of Bubblegum Day, the term is used as a compound adjective. Hence, it is advisable to spell it as Bubblegum Day to maintain clarity. However, writing it as two words, Bubble Gum Day, is still a valid alternative, though less common.
Urban Examples and Historical Context
Bubblegum holds a special place in the history of American youth culture. The term bubblegum music, a genre popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s, exemplifies its cultural significance.
The following excerpt is from an autobiographical novel where the protagonist and his friend explore the social and cultural aspects of bubblegum during a skating rink session in 1970:
Over the loudspeaker came the voice: “Now skaters, it's time for 'Couples Only.' A boy and a girl—or two girls. But please….” While emphasizing each word carefully, the voice on the loudspeaker enunciated: “No. Two. Boys.”
The kids laughed as they did every time they heard that when 'Couples Only' began. While they were skating hand-in-hand, she had asked Kenneth, “Where do you live?” “In Kenmore,” he had replied. “And where do you live?” “Right on the borderline between Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace.”
The skating rink, a key social venue in the 1970s, was a setting for both entertainment and social interaction. Bubblegum played a significant role in these interactions, symbolizing fun, youth, and social cohesion.
One evening, the protagonist and his friend engaged in a game where one partner held a cylindrical stick of bubblegum while the other bit a piece off, keeping it in their mouths and racing against other couples. This game was part of the fun but also represented the hip and rebellious nature of teenagers during this era.
The cultural references and subtle adult themes in the narrative illustrate the nuanced and complex nature of bubblegum in youth culture. The genre bubblegum music, often associated with the Ohio Express, further underscores its importance. The term bubblegum was not just a product but a symbol of youthful rebellion and community bonding.
Spelling and Linguistic Evolution
The evolution of the term bubblegum highlights the fluidity of language and how societal norms shape linguistic choices. As internet and search engine usage grow, the single-word spelling bubblegum dominates, indicating a cultural shift towards simplicity and common usage.
It is important to remember that language is a living, evolving entity. As we explore and appreciate the history and cultural significance of bubblegum, we must also respect and acknowledge different spelling conventions and linguistic preferences.