|
|
|
| chile blog | about | living in chile | store | archives | learn spanish | Chile travel |
| CLICK HERE NOW FOR FREE ONLINE SPANISH LESSONS Clowns for Pinochet
Embedding myself amidst the pro-Pinochet marchers was frightening, to a certain degree, as it would be to jump in amidst a group of neo-nazi marchers in like Poland I imagine. But this strange street coalition of pinochetistas wasn't all blood curdling.
The suburban element was strong, as well. Well groomed dogs on leashes,
cute suburbanite blondes, little old ladies, a ringleader in a cape and,
what-any-fascist-march-wouldn't-be-complete-without, a CLOWN. Reflecting upon this video, however, I couldn't help falling into deep, archetypical sadness: this is the sadest clown alive. He's raggedy, working class and making a fool of himself, socio-economically speaking. I can't even imagine that he gets along with the snooty upper class he's marching with. Would any of them talk to him? Eeeeew! It's his loneliness, overall, that gives me what the Chileans describe as pena - profound sorrow akin to homesickness, loss of a loved one or friendlessness. Good job, CLOWN! Anyway, considering Marc Cooper's astute analysis of Chilean society, this guy's presence is totally absurd: Chile is a wonderful country with wonderful people. It's about the most class-conscious place I have ever been (outside of Montecarlo). So let me tell you, the Chilean ruling class has an unabashed sense of self, a brazen shamelessness which has permitted it to revere and glorify a humble middle-class general who didn't flinch from murder and mayhem to nakedly defend their interests. Or maybe it fits right into place. Maybe Pinochet was the biggest clown of all! Anyway, here's a more proper interview, a refreshing break from the surreal...er, kinda: And for some, sure, Pinochet is a hero. © Copyright 2005 - 2011 Chileno |
