They are more and more often seen in sneakers dangling from power cables. You may have witnessed these scenarios near your home, on the streets, or in any city in your country. How did they get there? Why would anyone spend time tying shoelaces around cables? How could someone risk their life to hang them? Each thing has its origin and I explain in detail what it means, what are the theories or interpretations of these actions, and much more.
There is an old English custom of throwing away the shoes of a newlywed, as some say it is meant to bring happiness and good fortune to the newlyweds. There is also an old military tradition of throwing away boots to symbolize the end of a post. On the other hand, space pioneers Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin – apparently even – threw their boots on the moon from the hatch of their rocket before returning to Earth.
Although these traditions suggest that power line shoes They may have a celebratory purpose, there are many other theories where not all of them involve expressions of joy. In fact, some are even involved in alleged criminal activity.
Urban legend, cultural and artistic significance of the streets?
The big question jumps into our heads. What does hanging sneakers on power lines mean? Can be treated of an urban legend and its cultural and artistic significance mixed with criminal acts. There are records that show that this happened because there was a wedding in that place. Instead of throwing rice at the couple, they threw shoes that were left hanging. Moreover, this practice is carried out in almost all countries. Most of the time we talk about sneakers, but also about boots.
Urban theories of hanging sneakers on cables
Any interpretation is relative. It will depend a lot on the customs of each country or area and today I want to share some meanings and what they ensure behind this symbol: street bands, celebrations, reminders and more.
First and most popular of all refers to gang activities. The problem with this theory is the lack of gang members willing to prove it. Also, you might think, how can vandals expose themselves by hanging sneakers on wires knowing that there are police patrolling the streets?
It is possible that you may also think that it has to do with the red zone for buy drugs. Although it is not as logical as the first interpretation, it is not very intelligent for the main authors of this illegal act to sell themselves easily to the authorities.
Do you think I can relation to memorials? In the United States, it is common to see a gold star somewhere on a car and it can remind family members who are grieving the loss of a member of the armed forces. Similarly, it is associated with the sight of sneakers tied with light cables to bring back the memories of one who has gone to eternity, symbolizing that they are now “walking in heaven.”
Moreover, many believe that it can be done celebrating milestones. It can be a piece of a member of the armed forces celebrating the end of a post. Similarly, many high school graduates throw their shoes on power lines to celebrate their milestone.
