EAST MONTPELIER, In a recent column published by the Hardwick Gazette, veteran writer Willem Lange explores his memories of mid-20th century America and contrasts them with current events and language.
Lange reflects on sensory memories of New York City and rural Vermont, from trolley cars to haying, and notes how language has shifted over time. He specifically critiques the use of the word "war" to describe recent U.S. operations in Iran, arguing that it diminishes the scale of World War II, in which his uncle served.
He recounts his uncle's service in Europe and the family's joy at his return, as well as the relief following the atomic bombings and Japan's surrender. Lange emphasizes the vast difference in scale between World War II and modern remote warfare.
The column serves as a personal meditation on how the nation has changed, rather than a news report.
Originally reported by Hardwick Gazette.
Photo: michael schaffler via Unsplash. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
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