Guy Fawkes Night
As I was working on a major research project for school (state-controlled vs. commercially-controlled media), I was astonished to see fireworks erupting from all over the city (I have a great view from my room). When I asked my housemates what was going on, they laughed and thought I was kidding. I wasn't. They explained that the fireworks were (and are - they are still going strong every night) to celebrate Guy Fawkes Day - a holiday where ppl gather round bonfires and watch fireworks in remembrance of the day when Guy Fawkes, a man who tried to blow up parliament, was arrested.
The holiday really doesn't seem to warrant all this celebration. Even on July 4th weekends there aren't this many fireworks EVERY night. They go straight from about 7pm to 11pm for 3 days. I understand that its great that he was caught - we wouldn't want anyone to threaten parliament or anything, but it seems more like a memorial to him than a celebration for anything. What are they celebrating - the tact of the police force, his ingeniousness, the safety of the parliament building...it's so ambiguous to my American mind. We celebrate independence (the 4th), Pagan Gods (halloween), sharing and turkey (thanksgiving) love (valentines day) and...leprauchans (st patricks day).
Yes. Well, it is apparent that MOST holidays are relatively pointless. I think I have answered my own question. Thank you and good night.
The holiday really doesn't seem to warrant all this celebration. Even on July 4th weekends there aren't this many fireworks EVERY night. They go straight from about 7pm to 11pm for 3 days. I understand that its great that he was caught - we wouldn't want anyone to threaten parliament or anything, but it seems more like a memorial to him than a celebration for anything. What are they celebrating - the tact of the police force, his ingeniousness, the safety of the parliament building...it's so ambiguous to my American mind. We celebrate independence (the 4th), Pagan Gods (halloween), sharing and turkey (thanksgiving) love (valentines day) and...leprauchans (st patricks day).
Yes. Well, it is apparent that MOST holidays are relatively pointless. I think I have answered my own question. Thank you and good night.
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