Patriotism Today
What does it mean to be patriotic?
Is it enough to wear red white and blue when you watch fireworks or eat a hot dog after casting your vote? The picture of America is painted with different hues of people, and the story is told in a million different tongues, so where does the common point lie? With the constant hate in the world and argument over every idea sputtered, it seems like just being human is not enough.
Has patriotism become superficial? Has Zahra's writing gotten so bad that she has to use all rhetorical questions to convey her point? Well, we may never know the answer to the latter but American culture offers hints to how much bandwagon culture and the need to conform influences the definition of “Patriotism.”
Addressing this concept, “The Partly Cloudy Patriot” is a short story about what patriotism means to the author, Sarah Vowell, and why she chooses to be “partly cloudy” one. “Patriotism as a word and deed has made a comeback...Teen pop bombshell Britney Spears took a breather during her live telecast from Vegas’s MGM Grand to sit on a piano bench with her belly ring glinting in the spotlight and talk about ‘how proud I am of our nation right now.’ Chinese textile factories are working overtime to fill the consumer demand for American flags.” So many elements Vowell says show the superficiality behind the idea of Patriotism. When Britney spears talked about the nation in the Vegas, a materialistic hub, she gives the impression that she is preaching patriotism as a bandwagon or trendy idea.
It's ironic to brand flags made in China as icons of America. This was seen in the controversy over the Ralph Lauren uniforms made for US Olympic athletes in 2012; they were actually made in China. This angered many because the olympics were supposed to be the height of our public display of patriotism, yet we were wearing foreign garments.
Why doesn't this same concept apply to the average flag? On a daily basis, national reputation is not in question, making patriotism something without meaning, almost robotic. How is this right? From a personal standpoint, my country really does mean a lot to me despite the flaws it may have, and this selective regard for the significance of its symbols comes off as hypocritical. Made in China or not, it should be the people and the country that dictate the flag’s worth, not the other way around.
Hey Zahra,
ReplyDeleteI really like the humor that you incorporated into your blog, it makes it a more easy and comforting read. The humor makes your opinion stronger and yet it has a softer way of portraying it. I like your opinion on patriotism, and I think you do a good job of backing up your point. I also believe the your specific pictures also help add to your point.
Thank you!
DeleteMy second favorite thing about this post is "Has Zahra's writing gotten so bad..." (even though I disagree with it I found it funny you were judging yourself like that.) My first favorite thing is how you analyzed the meaning of patriotism. I really agree with your ideas. Nowadays, I rarely come across someone who outwardly expresses their enthusiasm and deep-rooted love for America. Perhaps the word "patriot" has reverted back to what Vowell described as somewhat shameful.
ReplyDeleteI love the picture you used to show how we are all similar to one another! I definitely agree with the points you've made, and the fact that many celebrities use the idea of patriotism to attract people's attention. I also love how you incorporated many rhetorical questions to get your point across.
ReplyDeleteHey Zahra, I actually really liked your rhetorical questions; they really made me think! The use of the American flag that was made in China really does put in perspective how ironic people are as Patriots. You make a great point by saying that the definition of patriotism has evolved as societal norms of patriotism change as well. Great job!
ReplyDeleteI agree with your point that patriotism has become so superficial that we don't really know what real parasitism is anymore. The image is really cute yet meaningful at the same time. I like how you found another example of making items which are meant to represent American in different countries, rather than just using the one given in the essay. The humor helps to keep it light (and the rhetorical questions are effective!).
ReplyDeleteWow. First of all, I thoroughly enjoy your introduction with all of the rhetorical questions which contributes to your humor. Additionally, I love how you defined patriotism in many different ways and also did so by alluding to past notable events.
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