podcastsinenglish Level 3.132 Stand and sing
Mar 2, 2017
Jackie and Richard dive into the world of national anthems, exploring how they symbolize patriotism and identity. They share intriguing customs from Thailand, where citizens stand for the anthem in public spaces. The daily ritual of loudspeaker anthems at 8 am offers a unique perspective on respect. They compare US anthem etiquette with the UK's more relaxed approach and discuss the need for livelier anthems, highlighting Australia’s modern choice. Listeners are left pondering their own feelings about their national anthem.
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Stopping For The Anthem In Thailand
- Jackie and Richard describe living in Thailand where cinemas played the national anthem and everyone had to stand before films.
- They also recall loudspeakers at 8am on streets where pedestrians stopped for the anthem while traffic kept moving.
American Anthem Etiquette
- Richard recalls US etiquette where people face the flag and place their right hand over their heart during the anthem.
- He notes military personnel should salute and that many Americans follow this code at sporting events.
British Anthem Feels Outdated
- Jackie argues the British anthem feels outdated because it praises the monarch rather than the country or people.
- She also criticizes its melody as dull and suggests Britain could adopt more uplifting, country-focused music and lyrics.