The Excesses of American Culture
Photo by Bob TysonThe future belongs to the young and I think the young of this nation are better than the slogan plastered alongside the petulant young lady in the poster. We as a nation really need to rethink who we are.
Note: the caption for the photo was part of a quiz (note the question mark); the photo was taken in Milan but it's an American export that we're seeing.
posted by Craig at 1:23 AM
3 Comments:
My first thought is that it's just promotional banality, par for the course in our overly commercialized society.
But then the level of consumer debt and negative savings rate comes to mind. Suddenly, it's all too for real.
That's right! We suck! I'm going to Venezuela! Who's with me?
I suppose that I, as the author of the photograph, may be allowed further comment. The photograph, made at a gigantic shopping mall in the exurbs of Milan (Italy), does show a 'United Colors of Benetton' boutique. I accept the editorial note about the origins of the ad themes, and their repugnant implications. My added note is that United Colors of Benetton is usually pointed out as one of the great commercial bootstrap success stories of contemporary Milan; it started here, a family operation.
What's deeply curious is the way it has morphed into an international and faceless brand identity. Right: from California. Talk about globalization.
Add one more bit of trivia: as I took the picture I was accosted and escorted to the door by the shopping mall security officer. My offense? Taking pictures on the property. Why is that forbidden? Because I might want to copy the architecture, I was told.
Bob Tyson
Post a Comment
<< Home