a few thoughts:
The word community implies something beneficial, and the concept is necessary; however, “community” also implies outcasts, untouchables, outsiders. A necessary part of feeling included is the feeling that others are excluded.
As I get older, I notice that the “communities” I find in L.A. are more a collection of various varying people with some uniting interest, rather than a collection of similar people claiming similar interests. I find this beautiful and reassuring, yet less cohesive. When community members depend on the community and their comrades for identity, it may be a less interesting collection of people, but it will last because the members need that sense of identity the group provides.
I stood amongst two “communities” of sorts tonight. Pehrspace was hosting and Dublab show, and Il Corral was having a benefit. I love these events because as an outsider you can show up and still feel the sense of community—even if you talk to no one. Music is a wonderfully uniting yet individualizing thing, which makes it perfect for communities of individuals.