Curious George

It's curious to see how children take to writing essays. Besides keeping them off hard drugs, this exercise does wonders for their self esteem. Simerini, ought to be commended for giving the likes of young George, the former MP, a chance to take part in Sunday's essay writing showcase. Of course we'll need to pay the lad a bit more attention and have a word with him regarding bigotry, but at least he managed to get a few things off his chest.

A friend of Prodromos Prodromou and a former MP in his own right, young Colocassides points out in the newspaper's creative writing section that the Finns are nothing but a bunch of suicidal drunks, living in a bland wasteland. The gist of his rebellious little piece is, predictably, that the Finns have no right to assume what may or may not be right for us because we are a more colourful people who thrive on creative anarchy.

George's essay does, however, serve as a reminder of how pathetically passive most Stravaralanders happen to be when it comes to a deep seated belief in international diplomacy owing us a favour. We gladly take the perceived bait (in this case trying to spread hysteria among the masses regarding the possible return of Varosha) and then, when reality bites, we convince ourselves that we're dealing with just another bunch of evil spirited foreigners, who'd like nothing better than to see us buried on our very own moral high-ground.

The essay's weak point is in its conclusion; that we are not about to get ahead in this life, simply by adopting, say, Finnish education, a New York Stock Exchange or French winemaking. Yes, alright, I get it - a 'leave us alone to fix our own broken toys' kind of attitude. Not to worry, George, I think they will.

As for Finland being a cultural wasteland, I'd suggest that young George pick any film made by either of the Kaurismäki brothers, or even go back a few years (if he's old enough) and remember how Ari Vatanen (now a Member of a big Parliament with grown-ups) was revered here in our complex, creative and colourful island during his rally driving days.