Share this Story : National Post Copy Link Email X Reddit Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr

Letters: Canadian identity? We just feel it

Readers weigh in on national identity, floor-crossing MPs, the targeting of Jewish children's camps, living vicariously, and more

You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.

Canadian patriotism ‘is there and in strength’

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Exclusive articles by Conrad Black, Barbara Kay and others. Plus, special edition NP Platformed and First Reading newsletters and virtual events.

Unlimited online access to National Post.

National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.

Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.

Support local journalism.

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Exclusive articles by Conrad Black, Barbara Kay and others. Plus, special edition NP Platformed and First Reading newsletters and virtual events.

Unlimited online access to National Post.

National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.

Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.

Support local journalism.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Access articles from across Canada with one account.

Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.

Enjoy additional articles per month.

Get email updates from your favourite authors.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Access articles from across Canada with one account

Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments

Enjoy additional articles per month

Get email updates from your favourite authors

Sign In or Create an Account

Re: In search of a distinct Canadian identity — Conrad Black, Feb. 14

Letters: Canadian identity? We just feel it Back to video

Canadians don’t wear patriotism on our sleeves, but if provoked, it is there and in strength. Canada is a light under a basket. Probably a reasonable description is that we’re Americans, with manners. Carnival-like patriotic gestures, boasting and gamesman-show-like gimmicks aren’t in our national DNA. It may be hard to nail down, however most Canadians feel it, but can’t always name it.

Canadian philosopher Marshall McLuhan said, “Canada is the only country in the world that knows how to live without an identity.” There could be a little something to that, but just because our identity isn’t always openly displayed doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Some things just can’t be put into words.

This newsletter tackles hot topics with boldness, verve and wit. (Subscriber-exclusive edition on Fridays)

There was an error, please provide a valid email address.

By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.

A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.

The next issue of Platformed will soon be in your inbox.

We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again

Interested in more newsletters? Browse here.

Douglas Cornish, Ottawa

Floor-crossers and pieces of silver

Re: Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux crosses the floor to the Liberals — Jordan Gowling, Feb. 18

It’s becoming unbearable to watch the talking heads on CTV and CBC trying to justify why three conservative MPs decided to join the Carney Liberals.

From the perspective of the defecting MPs, it all boils down to Conservative chief Pierre Poilièvre’s........

© National Post