Time and Distance Overcome
Well, first thing is first. I have had a bit to drink, so please excuse the loose tongue.
In 1804 Napoleaon marches through the bradenburg gate. In 1940 Hitler marches (well drives....well rides) under the Arch Of Triumph. Europeans have long memories. In America at the same time the founding fathers seem like distant memories.
The distance between London and Glasgow is roughly the same as the distance between my house and my university*in the same state.). Europeans don't like distance.
This colors both of our perceptions (Note, when I use the term Europe I speak about only the countries that matter IE UK, France, Germany, Low countries. Yes, everyone is very happy that the Poles shook the shackles of Uncle Joe but they still don't matter.)
The problem is America venerates people whom Europeans still hold grudges against.Washington may as well be Ceaser, through American eyes. This causes a rather rediculously skewed veiw of history.
While Europeans tend to be rather insular, I guess. I'm sure there's a point there, I'm just to drunk to find it. Something about distance
The title is shamelessly stolen from a short story.
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks