August 21, 2008

Pop v. Soda: the debate that divides a nation

Having grown up on the hardened streets of a little post-industrial C-town, I have come to appreciate the lilting qualities of northern speak.  The cadence the flows from the mouths of my fellow Northern Ohioans is a sweet, sweet sonance, easily compared to the harp’s arpeggio.

Years ago, I moved south to a land where “soda” is rather vociferously preferred to “pop.”  Often, when ordering at a restaurant or bar, I am ribbed jollily when ordering a pop.  “Hee-hee,” they laugh behind my back.

Sometimes I dream of revoultion, of countering with a pinwheel of fists, of smashing each little cow-head square between the eyes.  But, instead, a take a deep breath, settle down, and drink my delicious, delicious pop.  Such sweet nectar.

The whole topic is logistically infuriating.  After all, “pop” makes sense — it’s onomatopoeic.

Well, ye’ foolhardy bastards, it appears the majority rules on this one.  Finally a study worth funding, and one worthy of JvJ raving.  Looks like “pop” is king of the land.  And as king, it demands your reverence.  So “pop” it is — and you best mind your majesty.

And looks like Cuyahoga county, home of the burning river and other greats, is the capital.

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