The free expression tunnel has garnered much controversy over the past several months. Some have come to question the extent to which free expression should rein at the University. Others have come to question the state of race relations at  N.C . State. However, with a comfortable distance between the last and the next issue surrounding the tunnel it is the perfect time for an evaluation of the tunnel free from ideological or political thought.

I am glad to see all the constant controversy surrounding the free expression tunnel, as I hope it will eventually propel the powers that be to condemn it. My reasons for despising the tunnel have nothing to do with the controversy. It has to do with a more personal strife than anything publicized to my knowledge. 

The free expression tunnel is the eyesore to end all eyesores and that includes Harrelson  and Poe Halls. Yes, there are times where beautiful works of art are produced in tunnel, the Kay  Yow  memorial comes to mind; however, these are few and far between. 

The majority of the time the free expression tunnel feels like a mix between a condemned crack den and Time Square. Ads for campus organizations and random phalluses adorn the walls without order as if they are yelling at you. Regardless of the controversial subject matter adorning the walls, I am surprised that people are taken there during campus tours based on its appearance alone.

The greatest issue the free expression tunnel faces when it rains is the peril one is faced with should they, per chance, have on improper footwear. A prayer goes out to all of those who are caught in the rain wearing rainbows, worn down tennis shoes, or poorly soled boots, as the tunnel becomes a slip and slide instead of a walkway. You will no doubt spend your time on rainy days taking a alternate route to avoid the slip and slide, a route that will push you way out of your way, or spend your time voyaging through the tunnel trying to avoid busting your lower half.

This is all to say nothing of the contact high that one is vulnerable to if someone is painting. I would prefer to not lose my brain cells without my consent. I have tried holding my breath as I pass through, but, as I am not in the cardiovascular shape I once was, I end up not being able to go the distance. This being the case, I am forced into a steep inhale in the middle of the action and can feel my brain begin to melt. If I underperform academically this year I’ll most likely blame the free expression tunnel.

I’d like to return to the phallic imagery of the expression tunnel. I understand the place for these graphic designs: a friend’s car window or the middle of a friend’s term paper. However, this art is something that is out of place in the free expression tunnel. It is similar to someone wearing a UNC shirt on campus; no rule against it its just out of place. Please, keep these paintings where they will be appreciated.

I must come to question the administration that allowed for the free expression tunnel to be established where it is. The tunnel is located at one of the university’s main hubs for foot traffic, I would have much less of an issue if it where in a less frequented spot. And as I find myself losing my appetite as I walk through there to the atrium I become ever more cemented in my belief that its time is over. Please, someone, end the free expression once and for all.