Flamingo Fad

          Ever notice how nothing ever stays the same? Change is inevitable and it constantly alters normal practicalities. This tenet of life is heavily bolstered by Jennifer Price's essay "The Plastic Pink Flamingo: A Natural History". In the piece, the writer sculpts a position on society's transient view of a certain concept or symbol. She claims "in South Beach, especially, architects employed...bright pinks and flaming motifs" and that this is ironic because "Americans had hunted flamingos to extinction in Florida in the late 1800's for plumes and meat" (10-15). This information proves significant as it demonstrates how peoples' attitudes toward something can radically flip as time passes.
          Apparently, Americans used to regard flamingos purely as a resource in the 1800's. They would kill the birds for the meat and feathers, and practically destroy any trace of existing flamingos. Eventually, as flamingos spiraled upward to the height of glamour, they became the epitome of sophistication and extravagance. At this point, flamingos could be seen everywhere in Florida; their presence infused vibrant life into the community. Phenomena like this verify peoples' ability to adapt circumstances to their benefit, even if it differs from prior practices. Humans are fickle creatures; they are willing to change their entire view of something just to keep up with their trend-conscious society.