“If I ruled the world, nationalism and patriotism would be abolished. Instead there would be universal respect and enjoyment of every culture’s individuality, their different ways of thinking and behaving, their unique approach to life. There would be no flag-waving fanaticism, no “my country right or wrong”. All the different cultures of different places on the planet would meet in sport and arts and educational events and in joint projects for the betterment of the quality of life for all.”
– Augustine/Natalie on Sept 6th ‘04 @ Blaugustine
Hooray for Natalie d’Arbeloff ! After two weeks of watching corporations wet themselves and try desperately to align themselves with the Olympics (everything from happy meals to batteries), Natalie’s comments about nationalism are a refreshing read. My partner and I always wonder why there is no Olympics for art or literature? Nationalism is a dangerous thing and it’s ugly face was clearly evident during last week’s RNC, while thousands of republicans chanted U-S-A with what sounded more like anger than pride. Unchecked nationalism and pride in your nation are two very different things and they need to be talked about now, more than ever.
If Natalie was leader, I would want to be in that country – which would have no name, flag or anthem, of course.
You never know what you’ll find or who you will meet when you visit Blaugustine, Natalie’s blog or is it Augustine’s blog? As this truly unique illustrator struggles with her online alter ego, it’s never clear who is really in charge of the blog. Judging from her lively comment boxes, this is a good thing.
If you haven’t visited Blaugustine, please do. It is a house with many rooms and I recommend first time visitors check out her graphic novel in progress, her hilarious interview with god series (the best rendering of the almighty one that I’ve seen since the Holy Grail) and other political leaders (including George W and Tony Blair.)
I discovered Natalie and Augustine early into my blogging journey and she has remained a regular stop on my blogging rounds. I’ve posted about them (her?) before and I know I’ll post about them (her?) again. When you find someone this honest, unique, poignent and funny, you never get tired of telling others about them. Go on, do yourself a favour and check out her site and tell her Liam sent you.
