I think there is a sense of being forced at this time to look at America's really large shadow and that's not all that bad.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I can't see America any other way than with a European's eyes. It fascinates me and terrifies me at the same time.
We're often afraid of looking at our shadow because we want to avoid the shame or embarrassment that comes along with admitting mistakes.
Like so many Americans, I am sick and tired of watching the rapid decline of our culture right in front of our eyes.
As I look around, I get this sinking feeling that we're off track, that there's something sick in the soul of our country. I examine the fruit that's hanging on the tree of America, and I can see that it's rotting. And that concerns me deeply.
To contemplate is to look at shadows.
I think the main influence has been living in New York City. Aside from all the crap around 9/11, I find it very demanding to think amid all the noise and visual pollution.
I think there is this whole part of America that people overlook. I think they know it's there, but they tend to overlook it, become ignorant to it, and refuse to see it for what it is.
I see that all of us who live are nothing but images or insubstantial shadow.
To think of shadows is a serious thing.
The dark shadow we seem to see in the distance is not really a mountain ahead, but the shadow of the mountain behind - a shadow from the past thrown forward into our future. It is a dark sludge of historical sectarianism. We can leave it behind us if we wish.