Sunday, February 17, 2008

A strange place, Alabama

I've been out and about the past few weeks. Exploring this new place I've found myself in. I have to say I am wary. I'm reminded of a passage from Chris Rose's book "One dead in the attic" where he says something to the effect that we are a distrustful of those who don't laugh or have a sense of humor. It's been a while since I read it, but anyway, it's a thought that came to me as I have interacted with my new neighbors. While they are friendly enough, my husband and I are a lively couple who love to live and laugh. I admit I have the irreverent humor that most New Orleanians have. However here it seems to be suspect. To most people we come in contact with they find me and the hubby a riot. We banter back and forth and always crack up the clerks in grocery stores. Here, however, we are given disapproving looks or outright contempt. I am shocked. There seems to be some strict rules of decorum here and my husband and I clearly don't amuse. The end result of this is that I am distrustful of the population here. There is a disconnect that I fear I will never bridge. I just can't trust one who cannot laugh. I know I will be making more trips home and my husband and I will continue to bang heads over moving back to New Orleans.

4 comments:

saintseester said...

Hmmm. You must be in a different part of alabama than I am. People up here are really open and friendly. In fact, when I go up north to visit my sister in VA, I immediately notice the difference.

That being said, it is true that the people here are not as loose and easy going as LA people are. So there is a difference. I am just sad that you are finding such a reserved lot.

The long, long road home,New Orleans said...

I'm in Enterprise,Al. I think it's just that this area is Alabama's bible belt. At least that is the feeling I'm getting. Up in Huntsville its more urban and diversified.

LatinTeacher said...
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LatinTeacher said...

I live in PA now. This place is worlds away from NOLA, and I only started blogging after I got caught down there visiting during Katrina. Now I write about the things I miss from New Orleans. And I compare them to where I live now. Aside from tornadoes that destroy high schools, what else happens in Enterprise?