Analysis Of The Plastic Pink Flamingo: A Natural History

Since the 20th century, bright pink flamingos have captivated the hearts of Americans as a representation of leisure and vacation. From decorative lawn ornaments to various themed decorations, the pink plastic flamingo has been idolized in American culture for decades. In her essay, “The Plastic Pink Flamingo: A Natural History”, Jennifer Price examines the history of the plastic pink flamingo in American culture, and how it became to be the symbol we see today. Through the appeal to authority of notable writers, ironic understatement of the previous views on flamingos, and repetition to convey the significance of the flamingo in other cultures, Price lightheartedly criticizes the materialistic, flamboyant nature of American culture.

To

convey the materialism of the American culture, Price appeals to authority, quoting American writers on the significance of the color pink in US history and culture. She cites Karal Ann Marling’s claim to how the “sassy pinks” were “the hottest color of the decade” (40). By referring to a notable writer, Price builds her ethos through Marling’s reputation, thus supporting her claim that . In addition, she includes how “washing machines, cars, and kitchen counters” were painted pink (41). This provides evidence for significance of pink in US culture, which is often considered flamboyant and “sassy”. Thus, Price’s appeal to authority supports her claim, on the pertinence of the color pink in the 20th century, expressing her criticisms on the flamboyance of US culture.

In addition, Price understates the extent of flamingo hunting in Florida to show the hypocrisy and materialism of Americans. She explains that flamingos were hunted “to extinction in Florida”, yet immediately refutes this by claiming it is “no matter” (14-15). This irony illustrates how much it actually does matter, that there is more to the flashy pink flamingos that their bright physical appearance, and deserve respect. Despite being hunted by Americans, despised by Americans, and disregarded by Americans, they are still embodied to assert wealth. Price imitates a typical American’s lack of care and manipulation for self benefit, which is exaggerated. Thus, through the portrayal of the lack of care for flamingos, Price highlights the hypocrisy of American culture and its emphasis on materialistic gain.

Lastly, Price’s repetition in depicting the flamingos’ significance in other cultures emphasize the lack of real meaning in American culture. Prices includes how “in ancient egypt, it symbolized the sun god”, and how “in Mexico… it remains a major motif in art, dance, and literature (55-58). In foreign nations, the flamingo holds a meaningful in culture and history. The repetition of “in” highlight how the flamingo is symbolized and raised on a pedestal; however, in America its image is a rudimentary representation for wealth and leisure. The repetition of describing other cultures emphasizes the materialistic usage of pink flamingos in US culture.

Despite these criticisms, Price isn’t overly condemning of US culture, and maintains a lighthearted tone. Price highlights the US culture of flaunting and expressing wealth, in a once-despised symbol of the pink flamingo. Price depicts the “boldness” of the American culture, and the significance that can be interpreted from a mere plastic “pink flamingo” (2-7).