The endless debate about "punk" music...

I don't understand why so many people feel the need to say that they know what 'true' punk rock is/was? Why must they feel the need to bash the bands they don't like just because they don't sound 'hardcore' enough, or they sound too pop, or, god-forbid, they mature and adapt a new element to their sound. I am damn proud and unashamed to say that I'm a HUGE fan of the pop-punk genre, as well as every other genre out there. I mean, I was one of those kids in high school who was like, "oh man I don't listen to pop, rap, r&b, or any of that other crap, I'm so hardcore punk rock." I was dumb, so dumb.

I believe that everyone is entitled to their opinion about music as a whole, but why do these people who know 'true' punk or 'true' rock feel the need to so hatefully broadcast their opinions over the internet, radio, tv, and every other venue. If you don't like it, don't listen to it. Plain and simple, and keep your freakin' complaints to yourself! Geez!

Oh and then there are the people who respond to these 'haters' and that just fuels the fire. These people are looking for an angry and hurt reaction. People who are honest about the music they love and listen to just need to stay strong in what they love and let the haters keep hating. Don't give them the angry lash out.

(I also realize that I'm ranting about this, but it has just been eating at me for a long time and I had to get it out.)