Post #304007 by Tiki King on Fri, May 4, 2007 9:20 AM

The Fez has a connection with cocktail culture and the Tiki “lifestyle” as it applies to poly pop. Maybe not strictly “Hawaiian” or “Polynesian” but a symbol of a time, swanky suits, smoking Jackets, and hanging out in the lounge. Just as the classic Tiki Mug is not an artifact of genuine Hawaiian culture but a symbol of poly pop, the Fez is also such. But then again, the Shriners have a rich history in Hawaii. Ukulele Icon Johnny Noble was, in fact a Shriner. But I think this goes back to “what is Tiki?” Just as in any subculture, there are sub groups. Extremists, Members and associates. The extremist would argue that the Moai are not "real" Tiki. The associate would argue that rockabilly is part of Tiki culture. I say, if you only accept the 163 original examples of ancient Hawaiian carving as Tiki, then more power to you! (but don’t forget Tiki is not even actually a Hawaiian word)