On Flat Screen TVs

In the 1960’s and 1970’s people were particularly proud of their television sets—they were prominently displayed.  A large Zenith or RCA color television set housed in a wood furniture cabinet was the focal point of any living or family room.

But in the 1980’s and 1990’s exposed media became a decorating faux pas. Televisions and VHS machines hid behind cabinet doors in wall units or armoires.

I liked that. I liked downgrading the importance of my visual entertainment. It was like underwear. Everyone knew you had it but no one was obligated to view it unless they were in receipt of an invitation.

And then came flat screen TVs.

And now televisions are not just prominently displayed, but they physically take up the entire wall of the room. Everyone must turn their heads to follow the action on the screen—not simply move their eyes.  Unless one feels as if they are sitting in the first row at the movie theatre, the television screen is no longer deemed large enough—even though everyone knows that the worst viewing seat in the movie theatre is in the front row.

It makes no sense.

But I am not giving in—or at least not in my family room.

I like my armoir with the 32” flat screen inside as well as wearing  my underwear undetected beneath my clothing. And no one can take a peek at either one without my permission first--the way it should be.