The Chicago Conventions
Sm,—Mr. Nicolson's references to the television coverage of the political conventions in Chicago (Spectator—August 1st) are misleading and Llike to think that had he seen the programmes his attitude towards them would have been more enlightened. At least, I hope so, because Mr. Nicolson is a sensitive man and I would expect him to be able to distinguish between the " form " and matter of these conventions.
It would appear that only performances of the most genteel and refined variety can hope to receive Mr. Nicolson's approval, from which the Chicago conventions are excluded. They are neither genteel nor refined. Vitality, hopefulness, and dedication to a cause are their main characteristics.
The American elector may regret some of the practices of the conventions, but he hasn't been so shocked as amused by the " antics" Mr. Nicolson mentions. He is able to see beyond the healthy banter to the achievements of the conventions. He has been inspired by seeing this democratic process take place before his eyes. Beyond the cheerleaders, the singing, the childish demonstrations and the party bosses he saw a political outsider and a reluctant delegate chosen as the candidates of their respective parties against powerful interests
and party leaders. 40"
Far from agreeing with Mr. Nicolson that " television has killed the whole undignified method," I think it will rather tend to perpetuate the system by giving every viewer the feeling that he is a participant in a very important decision, and it has increased the American elector's faith in his form of government. For Mr. Nicolson to refer to " the vulgar falsity of the whole ,carnival " is unfortunate. I am sure he can think of many aspects of political life in England— pageants resulting from ancient custom—to which the words " carnival" and " false " can be applied.
I haven't read Mr. Nicolson's expression of emotion about these. Perhaps he considers them less vulgar. Perhaps they are. At least, while watching the conventions in Chicago, one had *the feeling that the participants were alive.—Yours faithfully, - FRANCIS DE MARNEFFE.
25 Parkman Street, Boston 14, Massachusetts.
Previous page
