Speaking of patriotism…
Speaking of patriotism…: “several other rappers have found themselves in the unusual position of supporting their government. New York collective the Wu-Tang Clan inserted a topical verse into their latest album, Iron Flag, that included the line: “America, together we stand, divided we fall.” “ The Guardian, talking about an upsurge of hip-hop patriotism post-11 September, fails to mention that the Wu follow this noble line with “Mr Bush sit down, I’m in charge of the war!”. Anyway, as is often the case with the Guardian, this article is a great idea for a feature but ends up rather pedestrian. The interesting question is one Pete touches on - patriotism can be “entertaining” but can it be funny? A half-minute’s thought leads me to think that humour relies on the unexpected, whereas patriotism is about reinforcing expectations. But “Okie From Muskogee” is nonetheless very funny, and so is the Wu-Tang’s “Rules”. Hmmm.
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