Found Field Journals Depict Bizarre Social Behaviors
In a strange coincidence with the submission cycle for the Puberty issue, Buzzsaw has come into the possession of a series of anthropological field journals. The location of their discovery has remained somewhat ambiguous, though it seems the author was conducting studies on early adolescent male bonding behaviors. Without wanting to misframe any more relevant information, we at Buzzsaw are happy to present the notable passages offered in these journals:
Week One of the Study
Seeking to further research any understanding of the adolescent male homo sapiens, I have decided the best course of action is a naturalistic study. For this study, I have scouted out a location known for its secrecy, a place long-theorized to be the ancestral temple of the adolescent: the locker room. After infiltrating such a place under cover of night, I have set up camp where I believe I will be hidden to prevent any interference during the study. This place also has the advantage of a clear line of sight to my subjects of study, despite some limited visibility due to the metal grating that comprises the door to my shelter.
Now hidden among them, I have been able to more closely observe their behaviors in a natural setting, something never before witnessed by any member of the scientific community. Though often willing to freely interact across their scouted territories, members of the adolescent homo sapiens display several curious territorial activities, such as scent marking by way of what appears to be an aerosol body spray. The traditional scent used to denote territory remains untranslated from their language but is best phonetically transcribed as “Aks.” Other territorial behavior can border on the hostile, including the shocking use of makeshift weaponry in the form of a wet towel, fashioned into a whip. This is a common tool used by the adolescent homo sapiens to assert dominance when two males come into territorial conflict.
Week Two of the Study
As I approach week two of my study, I am starting to notice a fascinating hierarchical division among the members of the tribe. There seems to be a ritualistic distinction, perhaps some sort of show of physical prowess that determines hierarchy. From what I can tell, they make plentiful references to some form of foliage, which I have deciphered to be in some way involved with the ritual.
I believe, after a few more days of study, that this ritual is taking place beyond the limits of my hidden location. The ritual, I have determined, seems to take place in the showers, which are beyond my eyeline. However, I have decided to abandon my cover and attempt to blend in to their society in order to determine what this “bush ritual” is. I believe that I am correct in assuming that it is a rite of passage as well as the primary form of hierarchical determination.
Wish me luck.
Week Three of the Study
I have seen things no one should be beholden to. I am concluding the study early for I’ve come to a different conclusion than originally anticipated: some habits of the early teen male should remain a secret.
Conor Cadigan is a freshman Film, Photography, and Visual Arts major who steals diaries from middle school locker rooms. You can reach them at [email protected].