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. Personally, I am glad to see all the controversy surrounding the free expression tunnel, as I hope it will finally propel the powers that be to condemn it for good.
My reasons for despising the tunnel have nothing to do with the controversy. It has to do with a far deeper and more personal strife than anything publicized recently. The bane of my existence for my past three years at State has been that decrepit excuse for a cylindrical object and this is my story.
The free expression tunnel is the eyesore to end all eyesores, 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 house and time square. Ads and random penises adorn the walls without order almost as if they are yelling at you. Should it rain, and the paint begins to run, it’s almost aesthetically unbearable. 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.
Should it rain, the free expression tunnel becomes a s*** show. The paint runs, weird tan puddles form from improper draining, flyers handed out at the entrance that were subsequently trashed in transit break apart and ride on the backs of legs and the bottoms of shoes.
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. You will no doubt spend your time on rainy days either taking a route that pushes you way out of your way or spend your time voyaging through the tunnel trying to avoid busting your a**.
This is all to say nothing of the stench found in the tunnel should someone be painting. I have no ethical qualms against getting high of spray paint fumes but I would rather not lose my brain cells without my consent. I have tried holding my breath as I pass through, but as I am quite out of shape since my swimming days I end up not being able to go the distance. I am forced to a steep inhale in the middle of the action and can feel my brain cells immediately begin to wither away. If my performance on the LSAT is not what I desire I’ll most likely blame the free expression tunnel.
Finally, I’d like to return to the penises. In a perfect world I would appreciate a walk to class where I did not have to see them. If I’m going over flash cards, a presentation in my head, or just talking to friends they throw me off. If nothing can be done to officially bar all of the free expression on the tunnel, at the very least, please refrain from the penises.
