Rethinking the idea of Germany. Charlie Bertsch, in Wednesday's Souciant.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment @thenewgreen. I was trying to make a point in this piece, so I underscored my reluctance to embrace my heritage fully. But it was definitely the case that I felt strangely at home in Germany, even though I had never been there before. Sometimes the sensation unnerved me, as when I was unable to press that doorbell. Looking back on my year abroad, though, I'd have to say that feeling that connection to my family's past did have a positive effect on my sense of self, even if I'm wary of the idea that one can return to one's old homeland.
I think part of the connection people feel to lands they've never been to is a longing to be part of a narrative that stretches well beyond themselves. Also, the "homeland" is a promise of what could be, a place that is devoid of the problems of your current local. But, like so many things; religion, sports, politics etc, calling something your "homeland" gives you a sense of belonging. Being able to say, "I'm a ____" is a powerful thing to us humans. Thanks for the response Charlie.I'm wary of the idea that one can return to one's old homeland.
-I've thought about this often in regards to displaced people. After a certain amount of time, after a generation has passed is it still their "homeland?" Jews and Palestinians come to mind but such questions come loaded with things like religion and decades (or centuries) of animosity and violence. I wonder though, would it immediately feel like home if it were bequeathed to them? The question could be posed to the African American population too. They were stolen from their "homeland" but so much time has elapsed is it still their homeland?
Great piece Charlie. I just spent Christmas with my fathers side of the family, the Clausnitzer's. They are German and from Mannheim originally, though most of the family that is still in Germany now resides in Munich. I feel very fortunate to have both my Oma and Opa to talk with and gather information about our familiy's past. Your take away from the Hobbit is spot on, I've always been impressed with Tolien's ability to impart the importance of genealogy and familiar history in his books (LotR included). There is something empowering about knowing your family's history, knowing that you have generations of people behind you that both biologically and socially have aided in your development, even if remotely and often tangentially. I never met my paternal great grandfather's but I bet there are traits I carry, perhaps even mannerisms and beliefs that originated with them and were handed down through the generations. Knocking on that door, meeting your kin is a way to try and expose your own origins. My wife and I are planning our first ever trip to Germany in May. Because I grew up with my grandparents telling me stories of the beautiful places there, I feel a distinct pull. I'm not sure it's the Heimat that pulls me, but rather a desire to get to know my grandparents and thus myself a little better.