Friedrich --

Some comments came in from Andre Hattingh, whose email address indicates that he's in Africa. Imagine, 2blowhards is read (if occasionally) by someone who lives (as he informs me) "near Johannesburg"! Amazing. In any event, Andre's a brainy guy, as well as a world-class, and often hilarious, curmudgeon. Picasso? No way. Abstract art? Nope -- Andre makes you and me look like edgy progressives and eager-beaver scene-makers and wannabes. Here he is on the fad for "reality TV":

Surely "Reality TV" is a gross misnomer. In my limited experience 'reality' comes somewhat tiresomely unedited, unpackaged and without an inappropriate marketing splurge or inconvenient ad breaks. Or do they do life differently in the States? (A double decaf latté?) The correct title for this sort of entertainment [sic] would surely be Prurience TV. Its content (?) appeals to those types who gather at the fringes of highway accidents to view the latest unedited road kill and Jerry Springer junkies. It used to be called 'bread and circuses.' Now it's Macs and reality TV.

I've urged Andre to begin blogging himself -- clearly flair and point of view aren't a problem. But he's playing coy for the moment. Too bad: he's someone who can really dish it out.

Best,

Michael

Three cheers for Andre Hattingh! It's what I've been trying to say for a full year and failing at miserably.

Prurience teevee it is, for ever and ever, amen!

Posted by: Scott on January 31, 2003 12:21 AM






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