The concrete gift that just keeps on gifting.
'Mother Canada' is the dystopian war monument we deserve | rabble.ca
In a move inspired by the populist Roman Emperor and amateur musician Nero, Stephen Harper has decided it's a good idea to build a 30-metre Colossus memorializing Canada's military history along the rugged, windswept coastline of Cape Breton. The statue will be part of a proposed "Never Forgotten National Memorial" inside the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
The design proofs are awe-inspiring -- but not for the reasons the chest-thumping Conservatives think. Redolent of Fritz Lang's dystopian, impressionistic film Metropolis, the imposing "Mother Canada" seems less like a northern Cristo Redentor and more like the stony incarnation of patriotic egos that see no problem in calling assault helicopters for a ride to dinner. Did I mention Peter McKay is a big supporter?
But while the announcement had many wondering if April Fools' Day had come early this year, the real comedy resides in the rest of the plans for the memorial, brilliantly conceived by food-packaging baron and "enthusiastic patriot" Tony Trigiani. From the Globe article:
Mr. Trigiani is planning to place a "We See Thee Rise Observation Deck" in front of the Mother Canada statue, and behind it "The Commemorative Ring of True Patriot Love," a low wall featuring metal plaques naming the international cemeteries where Canadian soldiers are buried. He's also planning a "With Glowing Hearts National Sanctuary," as well as a restaurant, souvenir shop and interpretive centre.