Hi all! My name is Katie, and I am a library science/elementary education major here at KU. I like books, especially those of the sci-fi/fantasy genre. I am interested in the martial arts and I like to bowl, even though I'm not very good at it.
"Culture is Ordinary" by Raymond Williams is an essay which reflects life, and society. Williams says that "culture is ordinary." He says that all societies have a culture, and while all cultures have their differences they consist of the same elements. The two definitions of culture that he gives are 1. "the known meanings and directions which its members are being trained to," and 2. "the new observations and meanings, which are offered and tested." William says culture is not only the common everday living of life, but the special aspects of life: the celebrations and the art.
Williams's style of writing confused me. At first it seemed like the first part of this essay did not fit with the second part. However upon consideration the first part seems to be an example of ordinary culture. We see the nuances of the city, where he waits outside a Cathedral, and the city is busy and filled with life. Then he begins a journey away from this civilization into the country, where the culture is less busy, more focused on survival, and making ends meet.
William ends this essay by saying "Culture is ordinary, in every society, and in every mind." His insights show deep thoughts about life and society. Every society has a culture, and while they are all different, each society has a culture that fits it, whether it be a fast paced culture centered around enjoyment or a survival based cultured focused on making a living and provinding for your family.
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