I prefer to live in the South but on my own terms. It takes some doing to insert oneself in such a way as not to succumb to the ghosts of the Old South or the happy hustlers of the new Sunbelt South.
In "Signposts in a Strange Land," Walker Percy expresses his preference for living in the South, emphasizing the need to navigate the region while maintaining one's individuality. He acknowledges the challenge of being part of a culture steeped in the historical influences of the Old South, as well as the pressures from the modern, vibrant economy of the Sunbelt South. Percy's perspective highlights the tension between personal identity and regional cultural expectations.
By stating he wishes to live "on my own terms," Percy advocates for carving out a unique space that resists succumbing to external influences. This balancing act requires effort and self-awareness, as the rich history and contemporary dynamics of the South can both enchant and overwhelm. Ultimately, he seeks a way to belong to the South while avoiding conformity to its prevailing narratives.
