It appears that John Kass aspires to assume Mike Royko’s place as the voice of the working stiff in Chicago. And he’d love to give that voice the flavor and attitude of the South Side. Best of luck on both counts.
But enough already with the pointless cheap shots directed at anyone and everyone who doesn’t fit Kass’ model of the average Joe. For example, can’t Kass praise amateur boxing without throwing jabs at “stockbrokers and advertising executives and salesmen and high-tension yuppies?” (Main news, March 23). Frankly, most working class people hope their kids get high paying, white-collar jobs as adults–and they work their butts off to provide that opportunity to their kids.
Royko became the voice of the average guy by documenting the dignity of working people and the wisdom inherent in their view of the world. He didn’t become a civic treasure by attacking yuppies and the affluent at every opportunity. Certainly, when the occasion warranted it, Royko would stick it to the snobs and yuppies. But it wasn’t a routine writing device as it appears to be for Kass.
I continue to hope for great writing on Page 3 from John Kass. But please, keep the focus on the issue of the day–the potshots just detract from the message.
