Blueprint

To know what America used to be, watch Perry Mason. I have. Every night, I watch 2 episodes of the B&W productions made in the 50’s, the time I was still an embryo, the time of my parents’ generation, the America they used to see from afar. So much I have learned from this show:

1. The photography is excellent. In B&W shot with film, the resolution is so good you can see Raymond Burr’s eyelashes.

2. The cars were big, like boats, and the passengers can slide across the front seat into the driver’s side.

3. All the men wore suits, perfectly tailored.

4. All the women were beautiful with perfect hair and narrow waists.

5. The politeness. Mr. Mason. Miss So-and-so. “If it please the court… If I may…”

6. They all smoked. When they were not acting or talking, they puffed. Everywhere, even at the crime scene.

7. There were plots. No action-packed stunts.

8. There was justice. It was always served in the end.

9. There was dignity and integrity in all people, even among the crooks.

That’s the America my parents knew.