Francesca Sidoti,
St. Columba’s High School
Popular Culture Prize & High Distinction
“Talkin’ Bout My Generation- Is there a song that defines Generation Y?”

So Generation Y has no song. This no longer saddens me as it did when I embarked upon my PIP. Through my research, I have discovered that it is impossible for a song to define a generation. It never has and it never will. I no longer want it to.

A single song’s inability to define an entire generation is not an expression of division; it is a celebration of difference. Such is the wonder of diversity; no song of three minutes could sum up what we all are. If a song ever could, it would reflect a homogenised society that had lost what really mattered.

When I started my PIP, I was concerned with what I perceived as the fragmentation of music. I now realise that this ‘fragmentation’ is simply different expressions of culture, personality and belief. They are no less valid than my own. The increasing breadth and eclecticism of music is just an example of the advances society has made toward equality of expression and freedom of speech.
I am proud of my generation. I am excited about what we might do. The lack of icons no longer concerns me as I know that I am sitting in class with those who will become our next role models. As a member of Generation Y myself, I feel that my research has consistently shown that, despite what people say, we are a generation that is not apathetic or pessimistic. Perhaps we are not going to try and change the world like the Baby Boomers did, but the next few years might prove a renewal of community and optimism.

And now I know music will not leave us. Whatever we are faced with, the music will see us through.