I have never gone trick-or-treating, and before this year I have never dressed up for it or celebrated in any way, really. Like any reasonable person, I will not be amused by any child who knocks on my door wanting sweets, whether it’s the last day in October or not. I acknowledge my being a frequent killjoy, particularly when it comes to frivolous holidays like Halloween and Bonfire Night (yes, admit it, it means nothing, despite what V for Vendetta tried to do with it. It’t pretty lights, a burning pile of logs, and assorted roasted goodies), and I’ve criticized both holidays on OWF before. But I’ve more tolerant in my extreme age. If people want to dress up and act a bit crazy as current tradition suggests, then as long as they’re not doing any harm, I have no objection.
This year, as I say, I went out drinking and clubbing on Tuesday night with white face paint and fake blood. One thing I never did get about Halloween in the U.S. is why people dress as anything non-horror. How are pirates and fairies and cowboys Halloweeny? Save your random crap for ordinary fancy dress. But then I realized I was wearing an attempt at a 40s swing dance outfit on my night out, originally with no Halloween theme to it. But it was a swing dance society social, so I’m forgiving myself on that count.
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