Marissa Fitzgerald (SombaRomba@aol.com) from 192.239.156.145 at 09/25/00 02:01PM
comment
    I have read a few posts about Northerners' views of the South. I'd like to say that yes, the south is often made fun of up north. I feel though that this is after the prompting of comics, many who are southern and are poking fun at themselves. I think making the generaliztion that Northerners only think of SOutherners as hicks and red-necks is the same type of stereo-type you're protesting. Speaking for myself, and for the views of most people I know, us Northerners adore the Southern accent. Its very unique, and though it may be poked fun at, I beleive it's something that is appreciated by Northerners. Speak in your accent up North, and you will be greeted by many people who'd love to just sit with you to hear your words. Sure, my friends poked fun at me when I said I was moving to Tennessee. When my move was brought up, they loved to fake an accent, or make a comment about hicks. But guess what? Now that I'm here, I'm always getting questions about what its like. Is it really friendlier? Yes. Is the accent annoying? No, not at all, especially since it's everywhere you get used to it fast. These are the types of questions friends and family have asked me. Southern life isn't something you can appreciate until you've experienced it. I beleive that those who make fun of the South just simply haven't had the blessing to experience what the Southern people and traditions have to offer, and you can't begrudge them because of that.