Saw a soda commercial on TV last night -- an artsy montage of youth culture self-indulgence over the the last century (including the V-J Day celebrations on Times Square, which I would not characterize as inappropriately self-congratulatory). Anyway, it was a handy reminder that every generation worships its own idols.

Not that I care -- I rarely drink soda anymore.

But what really struck me was the ad's soundtrack: The Who's classic "My Generation." I hope they got some good money for the licensing of that gem (Pete Townsend might still have some fat legal defense bills in collection).

I've had a different song from The Who in mind lately:

The change, it had to come
We knew it all along
We were liberated from the fold, that's all
And the world looks just the same
And history ain't changed
'Cause the banners, they are flown in the next war

I'll tip my hat to the new constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
Then I'll get on my knees and pray
We don't get fooled again
No, no!

I'll move myself and my family aside
If we happen to be left half alive
I'll get all my papers and smile at the sky
Though I know that the hypnotized never lie
Do ya?

Yeah, the soundtrack for the next few years. Meet the new collectivist, same as the old collectivist.