First off, the message seems far too too for me, if you know what I mean. I'm just not into that sort of heal yourself bullshit. Secondly, it has been featured in every home magazine and on every design blog, and I'm sure that it's already gathering dust in perkily decorated apartments the world over. And yet... There's just something about it that I love.
Here's a bit on the poster's history, from http://www.barterbooks.co.uk:
"In the Spring of 1939, with war against Germany all but inevitable, the British Government's Ministry of Information commissioned a series of propaganda posters to be distributed throughout the country at the onset of hostilities. It was feared that in the early months of the war Britain would be subjected to gas attacks, heavy bombing raids and even invasion... The intent of the poster was to convey a message from the King to his people, to assure them that 'all necessary measures to defend the nation were being taken', and to stress an 'attitude of mind' rather than a specific aim."
Let's get this straight. The Nazis are gearing up to f*ck the British eight ways to Sunday, and the King comforts his citizens thus: "Right-o! We may be facing a spot of bother with some bloody rude Germans, but the important thing to remember is not to get too chuffed. Chin up!"
THAT is what I love about this poster. It is not the breathe-deeply-and-respect-your-inner-boundaries tripe of modernity; rather, it is a testament to all things completely, ridiculously, and fabulously inadequate. The next time something horrendous happens - say, for instance, you are being crushed by your ceiling and your giant, naked upstairs neighbors, and you're trying to dial 911 with your single unbroken tooth - take heart! Triumph over any situation simply requires your placid perseverance. At least you've finally gotten to meet the neighbors! Stop sniveling and buck up, sport-o!
My copy should arrive next week. I can't wait.
