Attending the Super Bowl: More Than Just a Game

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The author describes their first experience attending the Super Bowl in person, where they witnessed a blowout game that lacked drama and excitement. However, they argue that the true value of attending the Super Bowl lies not in the game itself, but in the communal experience of being part of the event and sharing in the collective belief that the outcome matters, even when it does not.

Why it matters

Attending the Super Bowl, even when the game itself is not particularly compelling, allows fans to participate in a shared cultural experience that transcends the on-field action. It is an opportunity to be part of a larger community and assert one's own singularity within that community.

The details

The author describes the Super Bowl as a game where "a bunch of guys push each other around on the field and every few minutes someone sees how far they can punt or kick the ball." They note that the game lacked lead changes and drama, with the outcome never really in doubt. However, the author argues that the true value of attending the Super Bowl is not in the game itself, but in the experience of being there, paying thousands of dollars for tickets and airfare, and participating in a shared cultural event.

• The Super Bowl the author attended was Super Bowl LX.