The Colors of the World Cup

Germany has never been so colourful! During the World Cup, flags are flying everywhere and people walk around in various coloured football shirts.* Of course, the black-red-gold of the German flag is predominant; normally it's only raised over public offices etc., but now the private houses and cars are sporting flags as well. This has caused some discussion, as normal flag-displaying is not normal here as it is in other countries. Any show of patriotism is usually frowned upon, and I don't know who is quicker to condemn the Germans for it, others or they themselves. But now, while hosting the games and (more importantly) while the national team is winning theirs, the colours are worn proudly - not just as flags and T-shirts, but as facial makeup, even dyed hair! How much that will change when the team loses or the tournament is over, whichever comes first, we shall see. At any rate, I think this bit of positive patriotism is all part of the party fun.

It's fun to see the stadiums so colourful when I watch the games on TV. Not only do the fans of the various countries bring their colourful items with them or add to their stock by buying more here, Germans who go to games of other countries often choose a team to support and dress up likewise. If flag manufacturers have stocks, those must have sky-rocketed during these weeks!

I'm already wearing a red summer dress; along with my black hair clip and gold ring, I'm prepared for today's game! Just have to go put the matching stripes on my cheek now...



*Seeing puny shoulders or bulging beer bellies in a shirt with Beckham or Ballack's name on the back just doesn't look right though!