Alex on Patriotism

Patriotism -- l frequently wish I was able to find pride in my country. Any American knows that starting at BIRTH patriotism is pushed onto you. And to some extent, the patriotism is fun! Celebrating our sovereign nation you attend pool parties, eat hotdogs and burgers, and watch a firework show. For many, being a proud American is glitz and glam! Being a proud American brings you an identity. We can move up in the world, we can achieve anything if we work hard enough because our country guarantees equal opportunity and freedom.

I'm not going to be overly negative, but obviously we know that's not true. Even for the white people, who are at the greatest advantage, a majority die in the class they're born in. The American Dream simply isn't true because America, since conception, has been built entirely on exploitation. It's not just the Antebellum South; it's all of it. FOREVER!

Regardless of this truth...I simply adore Americana.. I love the people of America, I love our traditions, our landmarks and our cities. I love the backlog of art we've created... someday I want to take a big road trip around the country, I want to learn more of our history, read the works of our great authors, poets, listen to our music...

I think there's a unique type of "patriotism" one can take on. An understanding of both our homely culture that exists alongside the fundamental horror of our society. It's neither acceptance nor complete denunciation. I think of Lynch's "Blue Velvet" (perhaps Twin Peaks too, I haven't seen it yet.) The film consistently dips into Americana aesthetics (diners, white picket fences, naiveté) whilst unrolling a thrilling plot of unrestrained sexual exploitation, violence, and instability. Despite the shocking imagery, the core of the film has a kindness. That was my interpretation, anyway, and that's how I see America. I see similar themes in the Talking Heads' "True Stories"... it portrays a small Texan town obsessed with consumerism, business, commercials and shopping malls. The characters in the film are often fairly pathetic, and yet the movie carries a tone of innocence and kindness. It's an interesting angle of critique.

I wish I could be truly proud of where I come from, but for now this school of thought brings me immense comfort. I ask not for nationalism-- only kindness. Be not proud of your government, be proud of your community.

Republicans are scary, but Appalachia is beautiful.

If you'd like to respond, email me at loldogworld@gmail.com