There is an excellent morsel of information lodged in a much longer article on Etemenanki which talks about Janet Jackson’s “wardrobe malfunction” from last year’s Super Bowl.

I know everybody is tired of this subject, and I was tired of it as soon as the controversy began. But this item on Etemenanki made me look at it in a whole new, really interesting way. In this article, the author compares Janet Jackson’s boob popping out to the symbol of the French Revolution, the lady of France, Marianne. In the US, we know her as Lady Justice, and she is also symbolized in the Statue of Liberty (which was a gift from France).

Traditionally, Lady Justice/Liberty is traditionally depicted with her right breast exposed. You’ll also remember that John Ashcroft a while ago ordered the statue of Lady Justice covered, because he was offended by her errant titty. Nevermind the fact that “Justice” was not only symbolically covered by Ashcroft, but literally covered by many other aspects of the Bush administration. The author of Etemenanki suggests then that Jackson’s symbolic ritualized exposure of her breast (which I personally didn’t find remarkable or shocking), was then an re-assertion of the true American values and spirit of liberty and justice, in the face of increased oppression.

It’s also pointed out that the lyrics to Janet Jackson’s song, “Rhythm Nation” speak directly to these values.

With music by our side
To break the color lines
Let’s work together
To improve our way of life
Join voices in protest
To social injustice
A generation full of courage
Come forth with me

Chorus:
People of the world today
Are we looking for a better way of life
We are a part of the rhythm nation
People of the world unite
Strength in numbers we can get it right
One time
We are a part of the rhythm nation

This is the test
No struggle no progress
Lend a hand to help
Your brother do his best
Things are getting worse
We have to make them better
It’s time to give a damn
Let’s work together come on

I especially like this interpretation as it adds a whole new level to the debate that raged much of last year about the event. In any event, here are some resources for further reading:

1. Jackson ‘Nipplegate’ illustrates the danger of chilling free speech (CNN)
2. Marianne, Symbol of France; Marianne & the Motto of the Republic; Marianne (From the embassy of France)
3. Curtains for semi-nude justice statue
4. Ancient Goddesses of Justice: Greek Goddess Themis, Dike, Astraia, or Roman Goddess Justitia
5. Origin of Lady Justice