++especially when we read such an opening line:
Really, "Matt Lewis & The News," when you're worrying about the definition of masculinity offered by wispy-voiced, chinless pushover Brooks (Not to ignore Byron York's Tweet!) we're already enjoying ourself at your expense; don't aggravate the amusement by using "manly man" in a not-obviously ironic manner.David Brooks‘ assertion today that “Obama has displayed a kind of ESPN masculinity” has raised some eyebrows. For example, the DC Examiner’s Byron York, in response, tweeted: “I’m so confused.”
The confusion, I think, is partly because Brooks didn’t really explain his concept* — at least, he didn’t explain what ESPN has to do with Obama’s masculinity or ability to connect. I will attempt to do so (with the caveat that I can’t know exactly what Brooks meant).
Think of the symbolic activities that have defined men in the past. A manly man (where I’m from, at least) might hunt, fish, drink, drive fast cars (sometimes while drinking), play contact sports, etc.
*No shit?
You could include this shit, from Washington Post "liberal" Dana Milbank, as well.
ReplyDelete~
I'd look out, man. The last person who made fun of Bruiser Brooks saw the nailed end of a 2x4.
ReplyDeleteFat but MEAN Editor:
ReplyDeleteMilbank should fucking talk. Dana's a girl's name where we come from.
Yrs. of being bullied in prep school have made us tougher than Brooksie, even if he goes McArdle one better & has nails in his 2x4s.