I’m not sure why I bought this last week, considering how much I dislike flags, flag waving, or any other patriotic or nationalist behaviours, or sentiments, or merch, but it was somehow appealing when I saw it in the fabric rack at VV. Probably because it was crumpled, faded, orphaned, abjectly inexpensive, and weirdly, touchingly orange. Also, since it dates from the 1970s, it has all these beautiful old elements – a high quality braided rope, a nice hem, and a real wooden toggle. It’s Canada Day today, and I’m posting this photo not out of nationalism but in memory of the spirit of outward-looking internationalism that Canada briefly tried for in the 1970s, right around the time this flag was made. (Even if Canada in the 70s was far from perfect.) Maybe once we are rid of our current narrow-minded, inward-looking government, we can try for that again. Happy July 1st worldwide to everyone, and may things be nice wherever you are. Sorry about Celine Dion.
I can imagine why this appeals to dislikers of flags. It says: “Okay, we’re a nation, but only if you don’t mind; we don’t insist.” Not bad!
The less said about Celine Dion the better.