What are the issues in Australia? There should be only one: the bushfires. What does climate mean? How do we live with harsh and changing climates? But following the ritual indulgence in sorrow, it is no longer a political issue. The sorrow is real and the instant rallying of people, institutions, commerce and sport/entertainment showed Australia at its solidaric finest expression of empathy and solidarity.
But politics are what steer Australia, combining celebrity exposure, power, male vengeance and an unfamiliarity with democratic discussion. Many would be sceptical that the government will keep its promises to rebuild what the bushfires destroyed. It will be easier to lower the flag on 7 February for a few years, as decreed by the prime minister.
Why this crudeness in the country that rose proudly from colonialism to great physical independence and pride? Partly because our antecedents were autocratic to the point of whipping people. And partly because racial differences are present, wide and obvious, allowing a culture of extremism.
Oh, and the beach ...
It tells me every day not to worry. That the environment is sporadically so pure and energising that hope remains.
3 comments:
Welcome back to the blogsphere - looking forward to more!
Good to hear from you again. But who's the fellow in his pajamas on the beach?
Who said that bathing beauties were passé?!
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