The wide-open spaces of an American highway, the spot usually reserved for announcing the distance to the nearest Burger King, are now adorned with shimmering stars and stripes and a clich?? patriotic slogan. The far-reaching effects of recent events have truly sent shockwaves throughout the nation, a point that is hammered home by the first noticeable change to be permitted in Monroe, Wis., for more than two decades.
In some respects, the wake of the September tragedy has brought about a heightened cultural awareness in America, even if it is skewed by media-generated prejudices. Prior to the terrorist attacks, if you were to ask the average American what he or she knew about Afghanistan, you would have most likely gotten answers like 'They make exquisite rugs' or 'Ain't that where them floppy-haired dogs come from'?
Before the events of Sept. 11, Americans lived in a shroud of apathetic ignorance, shielded from the significant troubles that face the global population. Typical Americans found countless ways to avoid actually addressing real issues, immersing themselves in disputes over their favorite 'Friends' cast member and continuously viewing that scene where Jason Biggs gets freaky with the apple pie.
Although recent occurrences may have amplified attentiveness to world affairs and renewed recognition of cultural issues, masses of Americans have used the catastrophic attacks as an excuse to artificially flaunt a self-righteous sense of nationalism.
While there is certainly nothing wrong with demonstrating devotion to the country in its time of crisis, many Americans seem to be simply going through the motions with their embarrassing attempts at patriotism.
For one thing, immediately after the terrorist strike, American flags began to pop up in an amazing variety of unlikely locations, some of them bordering on the inappropriate. I am all for the display of our national colors, but it is somewhat disturbing to see the symbol of freedom on the bathroom wall. Personally, I need no patriotic reminders while relieving myself, as the sheer enjoyment of using a recently disinfected urinal is sufficient to reinforce the freedoms of this great nation.
With our university's tradition of activism, one might have predicted that the shocking memory of Sept. 11 and the ensuing worldwide transformation would initiate significant contemplation and dialogue.
Unfortunately, much of the student body has instead reverted to the prevalent pattern of empty patriotism, and I have been privy to several drunken chants of 'USA! USA!' at sweaty house parties over the past few weekends. Unlike other outpourings of excessive nationalism, the hysteria of patriotic intoxication actually served a beneficial purpose, temporarily drowning out the incredibly overplayed senselessness of Dr. Dre's 'Chronic 2001.'
It comes as no surprise that the revitalization of patriotism has been exploited by America's closest thing to the evil galactic empire'the advertising industry. With the consumer consciousness occupied by more important concerns, it makes sense that, in order to sell products, advertisers feel that they must come up with something more sensitive than talking frogs. Still, I just don't see what the bravery of America's veterans and the inspirational melody of 'God Bless America' has to do with purchasing toilet paper.
Clearly, many people have decided to give priority to meaningless expressions of love for their country instead of actual reflection on the real consequences of recent events and the true meaning of American freedom. Not me. I know exactly what I love about this nation. It's the urinals.
