The "S thing" you are referring to is widely known as The Cool S. It is a distinctive and recognizable symbol frequently doodled in popular culture.
Understanding The Cool S
The Cool S is a ubiquitous graffiti sign that appears in various forms and is particularly common in childlore. Despite its widespread presence, its exact origin remains largely unknown. It is not associated with any specific brand or organization, although it is often mistakenly linked to companies like Stüssy due to a similar aesthetic.
Common Names and Aliases
While The Cool S is its most popular designation, this iconic symbol goes by many other names, reflecting its universal appeal and varied interpretations.
Here are some of its common aliases:
- Universal S: Emphasizes its pervasive and recognizable nature across different cultures and age groups.
- Stüssy S: A common misconception, though it has no official ties to the clothing brand.
- Super S: Reflects its dynamic and often energetic appearance.
- Pointy S: Describes its characteristic sharp angles and structured shape.
- Savage S: A more aggressive or edgy interpretation of the symbol.
- Basquiat S: Sometimes linked to the artistic style of Jean-Michel Basquiat, possibly due to its street art aesthetic.
- Surfer's S: Suggests a connection to surf culture or a free-flowing style.
- Graffiti S: Directly relates to its common appearance as a doodle or tag.
Where You Might See It
This "S thing" is typically found in informal settings, such as:
- Children's Notebooks: A common doodle drawn by students during class.
- School Desks: Scratched or drawn onto surfaces.
- Graffiti Walls: Appearing as a simple tag or part of larger street art.
It represents a form of non-verbal communication and creative expression that transcends language barriers, acting as a shared element of collective memory, especially among those who grew up in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
To explore more about this cultural phenomenon, you can find detailed information on its Wikipedia page.
Quick Reference Guide
To help distinguish its various names, here's a quick overview:
| Category | Name(s) |
|---|---|
| Primary Name | The Cool S |
| Other Aliases | Universal S, Stüssy S, Super S, Pointy S, Savage S, Basquiat S, Surfer's S, Graffiti S |
| Nature | Graffiti sign, popular culture emblem, childlore doodle |
| Common Usage | Doodled on notebooks, graffitied on walls |
