Naturally, this allows you to get as creative as you’d like with your laugh now, cry later tattoo. This includes using the imagery of popular characters like the Joker, as well as iconic masks such as those of Storm Troopers to replace the original mask faces. Since its introduction into common public usage, tattoo lovers have adapted the theater masks in a variety of ways. Classic Laugh Now, Cry Later Mask Tattoo Classic Laugh Now, Cry Later mask tattoo, inked on a girl’s shoulder blade (Source: Flickr) Whether it be an intricate colorful tattoo on your neck or a simple line tattoo on your shoulder, tattooing is all about expressing yourself. Additionally, they are usually inked on the arm or leg.ĭespite the popularity of certain tattoo styles and placements, however, there really is no right way to get inked. This style features the beloved imagery of skulls paired with bold thick black lines and bright red pigments to match. The the classic American style is the most common stye in which you’re likely to see laugh now, cry later mask tattoos inked. American Style Laugh Now, Cry Later Skull Tattoo Classic American style Laugh Now, Cry Later skull tattoo (Source: Creative Commons) Now let’s take a look at a few designs to see the evolution of this captivating tattoo into different styles. Man’s ability to brave any storm and still be able to smile when the skies finally clear up again. These masks speak to the futility of the struggle or the strength of human nature. Over time they have come to represent the joys and sorrows of life itself, making them a favorite among tattoo lovers worldwide.ĭrama is the essence of life. We know now, of course, that theater masks represent art and drama. Talk about a tragedy! Dionysus would certainly approve.

In this case, however, it was far less philosophical and more of a lived reality: live your life to the fullest and do whatever you want today because tomorrow you’ll either be dead or in prison. Interestingly, this is also a big part of how these masks came to be associated with gangs as well. These masks and what they represent have also expanded to include everything from art itself to the philosophical idea that one must enjoy every moment today, for there might not be a tomorrow. Comedy and tragedy masks (Source: Creative Commons) Though the masks themselves fell out of fashion alongside the fall of the Roman empire, their role as representatives of the theater, especially of the most popular genres of comedy and drama, have endured. Much like the distilling of human emotion down to a core six, the masks that stood the test of time represent two of the most important emotions that are essential to a play: happy and sad. Laugh Now, Cry Later Meaning: Happy and Sad Original comedy mask carved into stone (Source: Flickr) Original drama mask carved into stone (Source: Flickr) They even inspired sculptors who carved the faces into stone. In addition to being worn in the theater, these masks soon became fashionable to wear outside of it. The Theater of Dionysus, as it is known, was built in Athens all the way back in 535 BC. Originally, the two masks were part of a lineup of forty-four, representing different characters in plays staged at the world’s first theater. Photo: Flickr Laugh Now, Cry Later Origin In this piece, we’ll delve into laugh now, cry later tattoos, their historical meaning and showcase a few designs to consider the next time you get inked. Known by many names, the duo that forms the theater masks have been inspiring art for nearly three millennia and this extends to tattooing. How do you prefer your drama? Thalia and Melpomene.

Smile now cry later tattoo