Gothic and pirate are two subcultures, which sometimes present the similar types of metaphors. First both of them would use the horrible skulls as their accessories, which is one of the reasons behind this representation. On the other hand, pirate shirts as well gothic clothing come in the dark shades. But, it will be a big mistake if we conclude that these two cultures have same concepts. These two are entirely different from each other and there had been distinct reasons behind keeping the accessories of the dark cultures.
Difference between Gothic and Pirate Skulls: Pirate and gothic skulls seem identical to each other on the surface, but they have been designed because of entirely different reasons. Pirates used these symbols to threaten the people. They had their flags, on which these symbols were printed. The Jolly Roger flag of the raiders was very famous those days. The Jolly Roger designs comprised of the skulls with crossbones or swords crisscrossing each other. Such designs are used today on many pirate T-shirts. On the other hand, the gothic skulls are the symbol of supernatural horrors. The Goth concept believes in ghosts, vampires and many other supernatural events. These beliefs are the reflection of the negative traits of industrialization started in the Victorian Era.
Difference between the Dark Clothing of the Two Subcultures: Both the subcultures have become the fashion trends in the recent times. In both the trends, we find the costumes of the dark colors but the reasons for the design of such costumes are entirely different. The pirates would wear the dark clothing because of their outlaw occupations. On the other hand, gothic shirts, pants, shorts, skirts and other clothing accessories come in the dark colors, because of their concepts. The negative traits of humanity and the horror of supernatural films can be best reflected in the dark colors without any doubt.
Difference between the Ways the Concepts Started: The concept of pirate lifestyle started with their activities, which later on influenced the fashion statement. On the other hand, the gothic concept has the strong intellectual basis. It has a rich literature, which became the reason behind its origin. A number of gothic films have also been made till date. Various pirate films, novels and games, have also been composed, which have enriched the pirate fashion. But, these compositions have been done by fans of the pirate lifestyles in the later ages.