Bohemianism

/boʊˈhiːmiənɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A lifestyle and artistic movement where people reject traditional society, embrace unconventional values, and prioritize artistic or intellectual pursuits over material wealth.

Etymology

From Bohemian (a person from Bohemia or someone living an unconventional life) plus -ism. The term evolved in 19th-century France to describe the lifestyle of poor artists and writers living in Paris.

Kelly Says

Bohemianism actually started as a romantic misunderstanding—Europeans thought Romani people came from Bohemia, so 'bohemian' meant exotic and free-spirited, and artists adopted that image to rebel against Victorian society.

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