Marianne

You might see her 'down by the seaside sifting sand.'


Marianne is a national emblem of France and an allegory of 'reason' and 'liberty.' 


Reason, for many, including the French, is the faculty of discursive reason which defines our common humanity. It includes our speech, science, art, mathematics, philosophy, logos, and the rational.


Liberty, for many, including the French authors of the rights of man, is that condition which allows us to govern ourselves.


I take this opportunity to thank the French for lending us their Navy and know how to help us win our liberty. They went into deep debt to help us and then gave us the gift of the Statue of Liberty. Who has done more?


The Statue of Liberty could represent a very close relative of Marianne. 


People of France, you have my enduring gratitude.


Understanding benefits from an occasional sifting.