Donald Clarke on Jimmy Kimmel’s Irish Visit
Jimmy Kimmel’s recent trip to Ireland was met with polite remarks, but some perceptions about Irish kindness may be misleading.
An American Experience in New York
About 4,000 years ago, I visited New York City on a J1 visa and tried to find a job in a familiar field. I had to speak with the relevant union first. The woman I met was exceptionally helpful, as if I were family. She said,
“You came all this way without a job? Let’s see what we can do.”
After giving advice and job leads, she concluded warmly:
“Now, don’t let anyone tell you New Yorkers are rude.”
Up to that point, I found New Yorkers occasionally brusque but no less polite than people in any other big city.
Reflections on Jimmy Kimmel’s View of Ireland
This experience reminded me of Jimmy Kimmel’s comments about Ireland. While he mentioned leprechauns early in his remarks, he mainly praised the country’s decency, friendliness, and political maturity.
However, I believe Irish people are no more polite or generous than people back home in the US.
“Irish people are no more polite or generous than his fellow citizens back home.”
Author’s Summary
Politeness and generosity are human traits found everywhere, and idealizing one culture over another often oversimplifies reality.
Would you like the tone to be more formal or conversational?