"gen alpha" makes me so sad. not the generation itself, the fact that we've clearly just completely given up on interesting generation names beyond a stupid multi-alphabetic sequence
- Baby boomers: Great name, highly descriptive of the generation's material conditions (lots of 'em due to post-WW2 stability), gestures at the broader sociopolitical context in which they were raised.
- Generation X: First alphabetic generation, but at least it was kind of original and gestured at the idea of an "x-factor" or a certain undefinability. A kinda narcissistic name but that's fitting too in its way.
- Millenials: Straightforwardly descriptive of the time period, with hints of the millenialist optimism and post-9/11 madness that defined the generation. A solid to good name.
- Generation Z: Starting to lose the plot. Communicates absolutely nothing unless you're already familiar with "Gen X", and even then provides zero cultural or political context which is wild for a cohort that came of age in such an eventful period in world history. The only saving grace is that it gives rise to "Zoomers" which is at least charming.
- Generation Alpha: This is simply nothing at all. This sucks. Try again.