Are you being sarcastic?

I don't deserve any credit for turning the other cheek as my tongue is always in it.
— Flannery O'Connor (1925-1964)

Sarcasm Satiates

Are you being sarcastic?

I don't deserve any credit for turning the other cheek as my tongue is always in it.
— Flannery O'Connor (1925-1964)

The titled responsion is a reversal of sorts, and anyone that knows me knows that the "of sorts" is a watchword (pair) in my philosophical sense of Aesthetics.

Let's put some boots on the ground, shall we? If you compare the artistically rendered image above with the one that follows, you will see some worn boots that could tell a story or two. I am not being sarcastic, but there is meaning that lies beneath. What are your thoughts?

Nothing says 'Murica like a good ole' throw (blanket) draped over a chair while we send brave soldiers off to fight another war!

What could be more patriotic than using the symbol of our country's sacrifice and bravery as a cozy accessory for our Netflix and chill sessions? Who cares if it's disrespectful? As long as we feel we're showing our love for America, that's all that matters, right?

And let's not forget about those boots on the ground. Who needs diplomacy and peaceful solutions when we can send our troops to fight for our freedom? Am I right? Nothing says "I support the troops," like putting them in harm's way for questionable reasons.

But hey, who am I to judge? Maybe I'm just not patriotic enough to understand the significance of these symbols. Maybe I should start draping the American flag over everything I own and wearing boots everywhere I go to show my undying love for America.

Ultimately, the flag's meaning is personal, so why not use it as a convenient throw or blanket? And as for our soldiers on the ground, I'm sure they love being sent to fight for reasons they may not fully understand. Who needs peace and diplomacy when you have the power of the military? Am I right?

Brutality

Every woman adores a Fascist, The boot in the face, the brute Brute heart of a brute like you.
— Sylvia Plath (1932-1963)

The titled responsion speaks to some individuals' deep-seated attraction towards violent and authoritarian figures, despite the harm they may cause.

Brutality, defined as the use of physical force with the intent to harm or intimidate, is a pervasive problem in many societies around the world. Whether it manifests as domestic violence, police brutality, or the actions of authoritarian governments, brutality can devastate the lives of individuals and communities.

One of the most troubling aspects of brutality is how it can be normalized and even celebrated. As Plath's quote suggests, some people find the idea of a powerful and dominant figure appealing, even if that figure uses violence as a means of control. This attraction to brutality can be seen in many different contexts, from how some people idolize violent sports stars to how certain political leaders are praised for their "tough" approach to governance.

The reasons why people are drawn to brutality are complex and varied. Some may be seeking a sense of safety or protection, while others may be looking for a sense of excitement or adventure. For some, the appeal of brutality may be tied to a desire for power or control over others.

Whatever the reasons behind it, the adoration of brutality is deeply troubling. When individuals are celebrated for their willingness to use violence as a means of control, it sends a dangerous message to society. It suggests that the use of force is an acceptable and even desirable way to achieve one's goals, and it can lead to a culture in which violence is normalized and even glorified.

One of the most insidious aspects of brutality is how it can be used to maintain power and control over marginalized groups. Whether it's police brutality towards people of colour or domestic violence towards women, brutality is often used as a tool of oppression by those in positions of power. In these cases, the attraction to brutality is not just misguided. It is actively harmful and perpetuates injustice and inequality.

Ultimately, the adoration of brutality reflects deeper societal issues around power, control, and violence. If we want to create a world where everyone can live free from the threat of brutality, we must challenge the idea that violence is an acceptable way to achieve our goals. We need to recognize that using force is not a sign of strength but a symptom of deeper problems around power and control.

Whether it's the result of a desire for power, protection, or simply a fascination with brutality, the adoration of violence is deeply concerning. To create a world in which everyone can live free from the threat of brutality, we need to challenge the idea that violence is an acceptable way to achieve our goals and work towards a more just and equitable society.

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