"Every now and again, the alternative culture is cherished by the mainstream for what it is, rather than how it should be, like the mainstream popular music"

This quote by Thurston Moore speaks with the concept that alternative culture is often valued by the mainstream, but not always in the way it need to be. Moore suggests that the mainstream music often takes elements of alternative culture and repackages it in a way that is more palatable to the mainstream. Nevertheless, every once in a while, the mainstream will value alternative culture for what it is, rather than how it needs to be. This appreciation of alternative culture suggests regard and recognition of its worth, instead of a desire to change it to fit the mainstream. Moore's quote is a suggestion that alternative culture must be appreciated and appreciated for its distinct qualities, rather than just being used as a tool to develop something more commercially viable.