Response to Bicentennial Stanza #8

In this particular stanza, I think Chiasson is trying to draw a divide between pride in country and pride in nation. As Americans, we all have a sense of pride for our nation and the people who live here. However, this pride is not shared with our country, which is mainly within the realm of politics and government. When referring to 'hippies', the author is certainly referencing post-Vietnam US and the political turmoil of that era. The people celebrating the bicentennial July 4th are participating in the festivities as if it made them happy and proud of their country when it may have not.