Carnal Reason

Joe Gandelman, always on it seems, has a long post on Steve Colbert’s performance at the Correspondent Dinner last night. I always read Joe, and find him both insightful and an interesting read. But here, I can’t agree.In the comments, one will find praise for Colbert for speaking truth to power, or whatever cliche one wished to use. However, Colbert (who I find very, very funny) said a few funny things, but seems to have forgotten that it’s a failing prospect to attempt to direct satire at those who are beyond it.

Similarly, it has become tiresome to hear talk of courage in this case, as if Colbert is in some fear for his life, but chose to stand against the fascist state and mock the president and media. Rubbish. The easiest place in the world to be snarky is Washington D.C. The Capitol virtually runs on snark. I pointed out that courage would be exemplified by an Iraqi mocking Saddam (when still in office) where speaking against the government carried very real danger.

via Bloggledygook

Posted on May 1st, 2006 by pwyll
Filed under: culture