Cultural observations hold the possibility of a far more wide-ranging spectrum of opinion than do political observations. Because, really, political discussions come down to two points:
1.)Our opponents have screwed things up. 2.) We can do a better job if given a chance.
I participate in such discussions (as do we all) and appreciate them for their merits, but they are ultimately limited.
A round-table, free-wheeling discussion of popular culture, on the other hand, can spin off in an infinite number of directions. It can take you from poetry to music to television, to literature, to film, to sociology and psychology, to marketing and persuasion, to technology and its role in the future.... I suspect your dinner last November touched on most, if not all, of those areas, and more besides.
Popular culture is not a trifle, or an idle diversion. It is like water to a fish; it surrounds us and, to a large degree, it defines us. But unlike our finny friends, we can actively participate in evaluating and determining the quality of our environment. Which I suppose is what you have in mind.
Good luck! I'll be back.
Tom Watson
· 2 years ago
roxtar - very well said indeed! in fact, better than me...you've hit it exactly, just what i'd like to to try and accomplish - drop me a note if you want to author...
Claire
· 2 years ago
Tom, this is a great idea for a group blog. I can't wait to see what comes of it.
cara
· 2 years ago
I like it. Look forward to reading more... -a new reader
All Comments
1.)Our opponents have screwed things up.
2.) We can do a better job if given a chance.
I participate in such discussions (as do we all) and appreciate them for their merits, but they are ultimately limited.
A round-table, free-wheeling discussion of popular culture, on the other hand, can spin off in an infinite number of directions. It can take you from poetry to music to television, to literature, to film, to sociology and psychology, to marketing and persuasion, to technology and its role in the future.... I suspect your dinner last November touched on most, if not all, of those areas, and more besides.
Popular culture is not a trifle, or an idle diversion. It is like water to a fish; it surrounds us and, to a large degree, it defines us. But unlike our finny friends, we can actively participate in evaluating and determining the quality of our environment. Which I suppose is what you have in mind.
Good luck! I'll be back.