Imperialist? This is a pretty narrow view of fireworks.

What about the Chinese use of fireworks in festivals since the 12th century? Are those displays of "pomposity, aggression, triumphalism, and hubris"?

Fireworks are also an integral part of the Diwali Festival for millions of Hindus worldwide... but I suppose this their religious significance is less importance than the temporary inconvenience to everyone else caused by a couple of loud bangs around sunset.

Troy Patterson definitely seems to have some pent-up rage regarding this type of celebration. It's a shame, because it severely restricts the amount of enjoyment and appreciation he would find travelling to other parts of the world where people celebrate in ways that don't necessarily tip-toe around their neighbours.

More specifically, I would suggest he not come to South Africa, where you stand a good chance of having one neighbour setting off fireworks in his back yard, and another sacrificing a goat or cow in his. Funnily enough, we all manage to coexist despite the occasional audible reminder that there are other people nearby having a good time.

Your last paragraph reminded me - I moved to the city for the first time and I live above a bar. It's loud sometimes, and I like it that way. Because sometimes it's nice to have that "occasional audible reminder that there are other people nearby having a good time".

I grew up in the burbs and don't miss that kind of peace and quiet in the least. Quiet in the country is one thing, it's beautiful. The isolated, space-station type of existence most people live in the suburbs and exurbs is just too deathly still. I like fireworks for the same reason I like sidewalks that actually get used.