Europe has obviously got a very important and interesting history, which is of course our history as well as Canadians. Europeans seem to wear this history in different ways. The English are obviously proud of their history and their empire of the 18th and 19th centuries, but they also take the piss out of themselves so much that there's no room for arrogance. Just a good sense of humour and an awareness of the importance of their past. The few Germans we've met certainly seem to be living in the present, quietly rebuilding their reputation.
My first taste of the other end of the spectrum was Paris. While Paris has been and is still an interesting, important and beautiful city, some of it is taken away by the Parisians themselves. The whole place has a hint of pompous, like they've done something personally to take credit for Paris' reputation, when in reality they're letting their dogs shit all over it.
Italy is much the same. It's undeniable that this country has probably the most important history in Europe, maybe the world. There are so many amazing cities and heritage sites packed into a relatively small country. What the Romans accomplished 2000 years ago and what was discovered and created during the renaissance is beyond impressive and what has shaped the current western world. What irks me about Italy though, is that Italians wear this history with a little too much arrogance. As if each one of them personally played a part in these accomplishments. Obviously there's a lot to be said about patriotism and Italy has a history to be very proud of, but the sense that they are currently better because of the distant past is dumb. Don't get me wrong, it's subtle, but it's there. It's also obviously not all people or even outright examples, just a vibe. What exactly have they got recently to be so smug about? Mussolini? Berlusconi? 15% unemployment?
That's what I like about Canada. The only thing anyone knows about Canada is what they've been told by a Canadian they've met. We have a clean slate and we are each individually earning our reputation as a nation, rather than inheriting it and feeling unjustifiably superior. Maybe I'm a hypocrite for being proud of that, but as a Canadian it's my job to act humble while feeling smug.
-Justin
You know I love your posts. And your pictures are superb. I think you maybe need to consider a side job and publish these posts and pictures under a title - not sure what but I am sure you could come up with something just as creative and interesting as your guys posts. It is so interesting the contrast between you and Genevieves writing style..and how raw it can be. Im not kidding here. If you dont do it, can I take it on as editor publisher?? :) Looking forward to more. Love ya Justin, Ma #3
ReplyDeleteps. I realize it is a publish on the internet...Im talking a book. Remember those? lol
ReplyDeleteWhat Lorna said, times three! Your writings and pictures...your whole experience is wow! We've invented (maybe it was your auntie Anne) "WOL" to comment on your pictures. Your writing is extremely impressive as well. Who knew you had this wonderful hidden talent! More than one person has commented that here is a book...or a narrated movie...or something. You have managed to share your observances and adventures in this remarkable awesome way that is uniquely you :) If Lucky Brewers don't get on this, they be fools ;)
ReplyDeleteLove to you both! See you soon!