Andrew posted a comment which directed me to a very thoughtful article about the recent German phenomenon of Ostalgie.
While I'm still trying to figure out what Ostalgie actually means for the Germans, I also find myself wondering what it means for US commentators. More soon on the reception of that German behavior in the US.
I can't resist pointing out that the Guardian has wondered, "Can anyone be truly confident, knowing what we know about Ostalgie, that in a few years' time Iraqis will not themselves be gripped by something that will inevitably be dubbed Saddamania?"
Holy Smokes.
Is that a reasonable (or useful) comparison? Seems like we're dealing with two entirely different regimes, not to mention two VERY different "regime-changes." Oh, and two different systems/nations/identities, however that should be phrased.
Posted by Heather at October 13, 2003 05:29 PM
Comments
What I mean is, aren't there signs that nostalgia as a thing doesn't even apply to Iraq because they were "liberated" unwittingly/unwillingly? Can you be nostalgic in those circumstances?
Or was the Guardian writer just making a not funny joke?
Posted by: myself at October 13, 2003 05:51 PM