You might not tell it by the expressions on the faces of drivers in their cars stuck out at Two Mile Ditch at 8am or on the Moycullen road at 8.20 am, but what you are witnessing is the enactment of a tremendously sensual love affair.
In the vast tapestry of human experience, few relationships are as profound and enduring as the one we share with our cars. Beyond mere modes of transportation, these four-wheeled companions become an integral part of our lives, reflecting our personalities, aspirations, and the milestones of our journeys. The emotional bond we forge with our cars transcends the mechanical; it delves into the very essence of our being, shaping our identity and influencing the way we navigate the world.
I reckon, that like the vast majority of drivers in and around the city and county, that I spend as much time in my car as I do my workplace or home. Hours and hours of time are spent with the arse on the leather, listening to the radio or podcasts, waving out motorists from side roads at Castlegar in the hope that it will be passed on to me later on when I emerge from some similar sideroad.
One of the fundamental reasons we develop such a deep affection for our cars is the unparalleled freedom and independence they offer. From the moment we first grip the steering wheel, we are liberated from the constraints of time and space. My first journey was on an icy N17 back when I worked in Tuam. The open road becomes a canvas, and our cars, the brushes with which we paint the landscapes of our lives. The ability to chart our course, decide our destination, and control the pace of our journey empowers us with a sense of autonomy that is unparalleled.
Extensions of personality
Moreover, we believe cars serve as extensions of our personalities and style. Just as fashion choices reflect our tastes, the make and model of our cars becomes a tangible expression of who we are. Whether it's the sleek lines of a sports car, the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle, or the practicality of a family sedan, our choice in cars communicates volumes about our preferences, values, and aspirations. In this way, our cars become not just possessions, but reflections of our identity, contributing to a sense of self that is both personal and public.
Beyond the practicalities of transportation, cars are witnesses to the moments that shape our lives. They are there for the first date, the cross-country road trip, and the late-night drive that clears the mind. Our cars become repositories of memories, imbued with the laughter of friends, the solitude of introspection, and the joy of shared experiences. The leather seats, the familiar scent, and the hum of the engine create a sensory tapestry that evokes emotions and nostalgia, linking us to our past and grounding us in the present. I recall long drives to the Cup Finals and the All-Irelands; alone with your thoughts and the radio and heading home into the dying sun.
Cars also serve as symbols of achievement and success, although this can often be a negative thing, as they can appear as showy. Nonetheless the first car we own represents a rite of passage, a tangible marker of adulthood and independence. My first was a Golf that wouldn't go when it rained and had a hole in the floor. It also came with a load of unpaid parking tickets from the previous owner, a legal eagle.
The dream car we aspire to own becomes a beacon of our ambitions, a testament to our hard work and perseverance. The notion of progress and achievement is woven into the fabric of the automotive experience, transforming our cars into more than machines but into symbols of our personal and societal advancement.
In a world that is constantly changing, our cars provide a sense of constancy and stability. The familiar dashboard layout, the hum of the engine, and the reliability of our vehicles offer a comforting routine in the midst of life's uncertainties. The ritual of starting the engine and embarking on a drive becomes a grounding force, a meditative act that allows us to escape the chaos of our daily lives and find solace in the simple pleasure of the road.
It's not for me, but the automotive community fosters a sense of camaraderie and belonging for many. From car clubs to enthusiast forums, the shared passion for automobiles creates connections among people from diverse backgrounds. The mutual appreciation for the artistry and engineering behind different models forms the basis for friendships and a sense of community that extends beyond geographical boundaries. The language of horsepower, torque, and design becomes a universal dialect that unites individuals in their shared love for cars.
In conclusion, the love affair between humans and their cars is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. It goes beyond the practical aspects of transportation, evolving into a deeply emotional and symbolic connection. From freedom and self-expression to memories and a sense of achievement, our cars encapsulate the essence of our lives, becoming cherished companions on the journey of self-discovery and shared experiences.
As we navigate the open road, our cars stand not just as machines but as faithful allies in the narrative of our existence, making the bond between humans and their cars one of the most enduring and cherished relationships in modern life.
Now, I'd stop at kissing the bonnet...well, not when anyone's looking. Even though I do pat it like I would a horse, after a long tiring journey.
