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Reading Summary 2

Navneet Kaur

Ontario Tech University

Comm 3250: Pop Culture

Amanda Robinson

May June 4th, 2023

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Reading Summary 2: The Function of Popular Culture in Consolidating and Expressing National

and Nationalistic Ideas in Canada through Consumables

Introduction:  

In Canada, ideas of country and nationalism have been expressed and strengthened in

large part because to popular culture. Consumer goods like coffee, doughnuts, and beer have

evolved into essential emblems of the country's identity, expressing a sense of shared values and

a sense of community. Through an examination of their historical significance, cultural

representations, and ways in which they contribute to the creation of Canadian identity, this

essay will examine how these consumables have been utilized to shape and reinforce concepts of

nationhood in Canada.  

Historical Significance:  

Beer, coffee, and doughnuts all have long histories in Canada, making them excellent

choices to symbolize the country and its people. Tim Hortons, a well-known chain of coffee

shops and doughnut shops, first appeared in the 1960s and quickly gained notoriety as a symbol

of Canadian culture. Its development coincided with the country's progress and contributed to

creating a sense of oneness among various populations. Similar to how beer has been a part of

Canadian history since its inception. Molson and Labatt are two well-known breweries whose

goods stand for the tradition and pride of Canada. The development of the brewing business

reflects Canada's expansion as a country and the diversity of its cultural heritage. 

Cultural Representation:  

Consumer goods like coffee, doughnuts, and beer have been creatively used to reflect

Canadian ideals, diversity, and a sense of shared belonging in popular culture. In the midst of

industrialization and the blending of traditional opinions, Tim Horton values the upholding of
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traditional working-class familial principles (O'Brien & Szemen, 2018).With its widespread

presence across the nation, Tim Hortons serves as a hub for Canadians from all spheres of life. It

now stands for equality, harmony, and involvement in the community. Like the Canadian

military, Tim Hortons represents a sense of belonging that "you can always rely on" (O'Brien &

Szemen, 2018). The "double-double" coffee, which is frequently associated with Tim Hortons, is

more than just a drink; it also symbolizes Canadian identity and a shared appreciation for a

particular flavor. The graphic, which effectively conveys this assurance, has a typical steaming

black Tim Horton's coffee in a brown paper cup beside a line from the Canadian national song

"True Patriot Love" (Cormack, 2008).

Tim Hortons aligns itself with multiculturalism and other societal principles of identity

formation in Canada, creating a brand community will enable customers to have a sense of

belonging to their brand. (Robinson, 2023). Similar warmth, fond memories, and indulgence are

brought on by Tim Hortons and other Canadian bakeries' donuts. The recognizable "Timbits"

have established themselves as a mainstay at social occasions, workplaces, and family get-

togethers, signifying a shared cultural experience and a feeling of Canadian solidarity. 

In Canada, beer is a widely consumed beverage that is important in social gatherings and

cultural festivities. Breweries in Canada frequently employ national themes and symbols into

their branding to further link their goods to the country's identity. For example, The Molson

Company, a significant brewer in Canada with two billion dollars in annual sales and entirely

Canadian possession, was established in Montreal in 1786. One of the company's top-selling

brands is CANADIAN. Between 1994 and 1998, Molson utilized the catchphrase "I am

Canadian" (MacGregor, 2003). The wording and visual elements of the advertising addressed

some of the stereotypes that some people may have about Canadians.
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The advertisement also includes the maple leaf and beaver, which serves as the Canadian

flag (MacGregor, 2003).Canadian beer's relationship with nationalism and pride is cemented by

its appearance at athletic events, festivals, and holidays. 

Contributing to Canadian Identity:  

Coffee, donuts, and beer act as cultural signifiers and catalysts for a sense of community,

helping to shape Canadian identity. These consumables have shaped social relationships by

generating a sense of familiarity and comfort and becoming a part of everyday rituals and

conventions. Additionally, their inclusion in media such as ads, motion pictures, and music

reinforces their significance in forming national identity. Coffee, doughnuts, and beer are

regularly portrayed in various media as being distinctly Canadian, fostering a sense of national

pride and common values. 

Additionally, these consumer goods' accessibility and inclusivity support the idea of a

multicultural Canada. For instance, Tim Hortons has embraced diversity in their marketing

efforts, showcasing the cultural richness of Canada. Coffee, donuts, and beer are all-inclusive

cultural icons that convey the nation's dedication to inclusivity and pluralism. 

Conclusion:  

In conclusion, Canadian popular culture has successfully expressed and consolidated

ideals of nation and nationalism through the use of consumables like coffee, donuts, and beer.

These goods are representative of Canadian culture, have historical value, and help shape

national identity. Coffee, donuts, and beer have all been widely consumed and portrayed in

popular culture, and they have all developed into potent representations of diversity, inclusivity,

and shared ideals. They promote a sense of community and shared national pride while also

reflecting the variety of Canadian society. 

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Cormack. (2008). True Stories’

of Canada: Tim Hortons and the
Branding of National
Identity. Cultural Sociology,
2(3), 369–384.
https://doi.org/10.1177/1749975
508095617
MacGregor. (2003). I Am
Canadian: National Identity in
Beer Commercials. Journal of
Popular
Culture, 37(2), 276–286.
https://doi.org/10.1111/1540-
5931.00068
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O’Brien, & Szeman, I. (2018).

Popular culture : a user’s guide
(Fourth edition.). Nelson
Education.
Robinson, A. (2022).
Advertising Identities and
Communities. 24 May. Ontario
Tech University.
Oshawa
Cormack. (2008). True Stories’
of Canada: Tim Hortons and the
Branding of National
Identity. Cultural Sociology,
2(3), 369–384.
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https://doi.org/10.1177/1749975
508095617
MacGregor. (2003). I Am
Canadian: National Identity in
Beer Commercials. Journal of
Popular
Culture, 37(2), 276–286.
https://doi.org/10.1111/1540-
5931.00068
O’Brien, & Szeman, I. (2018).
Popular culture : a user’s guide
(Fourth edition.). Nelson
Education.
Robinson, A. (2022).
Advertising Identities and
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Communities. 24 May. Ontario

Tech University.
Oshawa
References

Cormack. (2008). True Stories’ of Canada: Tim Hortons and the Branding of National Identity.

Cultural Sociology, 2(3), 369–384. https://doi.org/10.1177/1749975508095617

MacGregor. (2003). I Am Canadian: National Identity in Beer Commercials. Journal of Popular

Culture, 37(2), 276–286. https://doi.org/10.1111/1540-5931.00068

O’Brien, & Szeman, I. (2018). Popular culture: a user’s guide (Fourth edition). Nelson

Education.

Robinson, A. (2023). Advertising Identities and Communities. 24 May. Ontario Tech University.

Oshawa