The Difference Between Being A Manchild And Being A Geek
Start writing a post
Entertainment

The Difference Between Being A Manchild And Being A Geek

One of these things is not like the other.

302
The Difference Between Being A Manchild And Being A Geek
YouTube

The term "geek" has been a blanket term that has taken on a positive connotation in the recent decade or so. If you're around my age (33), then you clearly remember a time when being referred to as a geek, much like Screech from "Saved By The Bell," was not something you wanted to be called. Now, it's totally cool.


However, it's still a phrase that is confused with other things. I've proudly determined that I am a geek, and I'm cool with that, but when people call me a nerd, I correct them. I say I'm a geek. A nerd, which still may be a negative label to some, refers to a person who more is into regular books, maybe not of the comic variety, but most notably book smart.

I'm not saying I don't like being called a nerd. I just don't feel appropriate being labeled something I feel like I'm not. And that's where the title comes in. I've been called a manchild in recent months, or even in the recent year, and I said ok, yeah sure, I am. However, I did a bit of research, and no, I'm not a manchild.

You know who is a perfect epitome of a manchild? Pee-Wee Herman. Paul Reubens' alter ego is an immature soul who has a play room to match his childish nature. Yeah, he has a house, but his biggest ambitions are to have his non motorized bike back or a huge party with that guy from True Blood.


He's fictional, but the true nature of Pee-Wee's persona is that his life goals are not rooted in a societal reality. I worked within the system to find a good job. I have deep conversations with my girlfriend (I have one of those!) about life, the future, and all the trimmings and trappings. Yes, I like superheroes, comics, Funko pops, and legos (we are scratching the surface here), but I pay my bills, I make adult choices, and hell, I'll even clean the dishes and cook. Yeah, sometimes I don't want to do it, but I do, because even though I like kid stuff, and a lot of my possessions are kid stuff, I do not go outside the lines of life to make sure my childish nature takes on other aspects of my life.


Being a manchild is not something I would address myself as. It means I can't really take care of myself, that someone else does. I'd like to think that I'd do fine if I was in the scenario of being on my own. Sure, I might not dispose of a pizza box right away after I devour the slices, but eventually, it'll make its way to the trash.

As I said before, I am a proud geek, and I definitely have no issues stating that I am. I'm not here to insult anyone, and hopefully, I didn't. The point of this article is me just saying I like what I am, what I love, no matter what. Yes, I may require some change, but ultimately, it's for the best. The same train of thought can apply to everyone else!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

109127
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments