The elements of American culture I will probably never understand

Probably. I am leaving a chance. But so far, in my thirteen years in the country, I haven’t gotten close. I experienced the country intimately, its different coasts and the middle, across four decades, so this is not a note from a tourist but an immigrant who calls the country home.

In no particular order.

Baseball. I love all things sports, and with age, I love all things sports even more. In recent years I’ve become more American in my interests — for example, I find the NBA much more exciting than soccer. Baseball though… I never found it interesting or made an effort to understand it. Of course, I can watch a YouTube video and educate myself, but I have zero interest. I’m sure my kids understand the game as they are growing up in America, but in general, this sport — an important part of American culture — doesn’t catch any of my or my family’s attention.

Country music. Like with sports, I love music. I like different genres from different decades. Nothing is off-limits for me. I like classic rock, and I like modern pop. Country music is an exception, though. I’d struggle to listen to it even if it were the only radio station available on a long and lonely road trip. Fortunately, Taylor Swift transitioned from country music to pop. I love Taylor Swift! Also, I don’t mind some…