Emo is a three-letter expressive music subgenre that originated in the mid-1980s in Washington, D.C. It is a style of rock music characterized by melodic musicianship and expressive, often confessional lyrics. Emo has been embraced by fans of punk rock, indie rock, and alternative rock. It is known for its emotional intensity and often deals with topics such as heartbreak, self-loathing, and insecurity.