Reader: Columbine tragedy still resonates because being an American teen sucks

When sharing our recent post about Natalie Carpenter, a Connecticut teen jailed for making threats against schools apparently inspired by the Columbine tragedy, we asked why so many remain obsessed with the shooting nearly fifteen years after it happened. Readers responded with plenty of passionate theories, including this one...

By Michael Roberts

April 9, 2014

Audio By Carbonatix

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When sharing our recent post about Natalie Carpenter, a Connecticut teen jailed for making threats against schools apparently inspired by the Columbine tragedy, we asked why so many remain obsessed with the shooting nearly fifteen years after it happened. Readers responded with plenty of passionate theories, including this one.

Mario Cianca Betancourt writes:

To be a teenager sucks. In this country, teens can't drink, can't go to most venues, are kicked out from places. Are treated like stupid kids. Unfortunately, lots of kids feel the same desperation, loneliness and anger of Columbine's. Instead of pointing fingers at these kids, we should ask, "What's society doing wrong? What are parents doing wrong?"

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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