Let's say it together. "This..IS..NOT..IMPORTANT."

I just read this article about the film Juno on slate.com.

It brought to mind a sentiment that I think should be articulated now and again. Art is an industry in this country. As such, many people's livelihoods depend on it. When someone's livelihood depends on a certain activity, they are apt to think it is important. Sports is another such industry. Also, people really enjoy movies, and books, and t.v. shows, and paintings. People really enjoy watching sports. Avid fans of these activities may be tempted to deem them important. I am one such fan, and I am sometimes lured into precisely that temptation.

So, let me state unequivocally that WHETHER OR NOT JUNO IS WORTHY OF AN OSCAR IS COMPLETELY, TOTALLY, AND UTTERLY UNIMPORTANT.

Other than determining how much money a tiny number of people will receive, the quality of that film has absolutely no bearing on anybody's life whatsoever. It will not provide healthcare for a poor person. It will not disarm murderous African militias. It will not reduce the pace of global climate change. It will not pacify islamist extremists.

Neither will the outcome of this year's NCAA championship, or World Series, or next year's Superbowl.

I like good art. It makes me happy. I enjoy it. And, I like it to be good. I enjoy talking about it. Sometimes, I even attempt to make it. But, in the midst of this revelry, it is useful to remember that it is a fairly ineffective way to reduce human suffering or improve human thriving. Say it with me now, "THIS...IS...NOT...IMPORTANT."

Ok, now I said it, so I can get back to my comic books.