Flying the flag

[rich_jacko]

One thing I really like about the build-up to the World Cup is seeing all the St George's Flags everywhere - on buildings, cars, you name it. It's such a shame that we don't normally get to see our national flag flying, but it cheers me up whenever I see it. Usually we're so nationally self-deprecating and negative. It makes a really nice change to see so many people taking pride and being supportive of their country - even if it is only because of a football tournament :o)

In other news, I now have double glazing. Marvellous. Just in time for summer...

Comments

[mathcathy]

I don't like it either. Maybe it comes from living in Scotland. Maybe it's because being staunchly British about football is reminiscent of violence.

[mathcathy]

replace British with English

[confuseddave.livejournal.com]

I don't think it's just a football thing. My impression has always been that the people who most strongly identify with the paraphernalia of their nation; whether that be English, Scottish, French, American, Iranian, whatever; tend to also be the most bigoted. I don't know whether it's because it lends you a rose-tinted view of your countries achievements and actions or what, but when I think of traits I'd associated with an idealised patriot (of any nation), words like "insular" and "racist" spring to mind.

This may be effectively the same thing - a minority spoiling it for the rest - but I'm not sure it's entirely to do with football hooliganism.

I'd also like to point out that I do have a national pride - I'm intensely proud of being born and living in the UK - but I'm not ashamed to say I find romantic displays of patriotism distasteful.