Politics: David Byrne on the election

Also from Alex Ross, David Byrne (of Talking Heads fame) comments on the national political scene. Astute, in a way that I always sort of figured Byrne was, but never got any proof.

To me, those reality shows “teach” bully culture — that’s the lesson that is imparted — and that includes ones like [Laguna Beach], which seems to promote backstabbing, lying, duplicitous behavior and entitlement — all in a world where no one works.

That bit, though not the bit Ross quoted, is the trump for it all. In the last six years, this nation has fallen into all of that. Entitlement is the order of the day, and it's not at all healthy. For a nation built on hard work and really Cyclopean effort, we sure have become fond of entitlement. A nation that once believed in helping the little guy is now addicted to the idea that "I got mine, sucks to you." However, no one wants to work for what they have. Mommy and Daddy will always be there. One way or another. And these people talk about "traditional values."

Much as I might be an addled socialist at times, I am a big fan of consistency. Rich kid slackers of any age and stripe, cf. Congress, make it difficult for anyone to get anything done. That's why the government has to step in and make sure things are fair.

I don't think I need to say much about the backstabbing, lying, or duplicitous behavior. The American people have repudiated all of that. Morally compromised hypocrites have been sent a message. Mendacious, rapacious "wasters of life and limb" (pace Roger Waters) have been sent a message.

The message: "no more."


Admin. Note: This will be the last Politics post for the foreseeable future. The election is over for a few weeks. Also, this is a culture blog - and nothing about American politics says "culture."