The Runaways And The Message They Left Behind In Eyeliner On A Bathroom Mirror

April 3, 2025

The old bathroom of the school was dimly lit, a forgotten space with peeling paint and a flickering fluorescent light. It was a sanctuary for a group of misfits who called themselves The Runaways. They were a band of teenage girls, fiercely talented and full of dreams, who had formed in the heart of the 1970s rock scene. They seemed like a whirlwind of energy, laughter, and rebellion, but behind their playful smiles were the struggles they faced every day. The world wasn’t always kind to girls who dared to rock out, and the music industry was tough, often dismissing them because of their age and gender.

One fateful afternoon, amid the chaos of their rehearsals, the girls found themselves crammed into that bathroom, their minds swirling with excitement as they wrote new songs. They shared their fears and dreams while applying their trademark black eyeliner, which became a symbol of their identity. As they laughed and joked, the atmosphere was electric. But then the conversation turned serious. They spoke about their hopes of making it big and how they wanted to leave a mark on the world. That’s when Lita, the lead guitarist, suggested they leave a message behind—something that would remind them of their journey no matter where life took them.

With that idea, the girls crowded around the mirror, taking turns writing in bold strokes of eyeliner, “We are unstoppable.” Those words shone brightly against the cracked glass, a declaration of their dreams and a reminder of their bond. It felt like a promise to never give up, to push through the challenges they faced as young women in a male-dominated industry. The message wasn’t just for them; it was for anyone who felt unheard or underestimated. It became a mantra for not only their band, but also for anyone who dared to dream big in a world that tried to hold them back.

As months passed, The Runaways began to gain traction, performing at small venues and garnering a loyal fan base. Their music echoed the angst and passion of youth, and that bathroom mirror message became a secret motivation for them. Each time they walked on stage, they remembered those words and the strength they found in each other. They took the rock world by storm with hits like “Cherry Bomb,” and while their journey wasn’t easy, they inspired countless young girls to take up instruments and pursue their own musical dreams.

However, as with many great stories, The Runaways faced challenges. They eventually disbanded, each pursuing solo careers. Some found success, while others faced hardships. But that message on the bathroom mirror remained a turning point in their lives. Years later, even as they each carved their own paths, those words resonated with them deeply. Joan Jett would go on to become one of rock’s biggest icons, proving that girls could indeed rock hard and succeed on their own terms.

Looking back, the message they left behind in eyeliner was more than just a slogan; it was a legacy. It symbolized their resilience, friendship, and the belief that no dream is too big if you’re willing to fight for it. The Runaways showed the world that the spirit of rock and roll belonged to everyone and that sometimes, a little bit of eyeliner can hold a world of meaning. Their story continues to inspire, reminding us all that no matter the adversity we face, we can rise, just like they did, and leave our mark on the world.