I remember touring The Monsanto House of the Future an exhibit at Disneyland California in 1957 and being in awe. Such wonders.
The walk-through attraction gave visitors a glimpse into what the future holds for homes in the 20th century. It was also intended to demonstrate the versatility of modern plastics. It featured advanced products, such as microwave ovens, and other time saving marvels. The furniture was plastic - think the cartoon The Jetsons.
After reminiscing about the good old days, I got to thinking about the present and what the future holds for homes in the 22nd century. The problem is I'm not sure mankind will be around in the 22nd century. But for the sake of laughs I can speculate that humans will be still living in some sort of structures.
What kind of structures you ask?
Straight up...Caves. Designer caves. Multiplex caves. Caves for every social stratum of what society that still exists.
The scared surface outside the colonies of caves will be too unstable and radioactive to put up conventional houses.
What's Inside?
- Cave units come equipped with oxygen centers strategically stationed throughout the home.
- TVs give way to hologram entertainment stations in every room.
- Kitchen appliances graduate to specialized robots who can wash dishes or cook a fair-to-middling meal.
- Bean bag chairs and couches are back! Every century they pop up like cockroaches. Don't ask me why. I can't even sit in one.
Fashions
- Long hair for men and women. It's a nod to the 60s and the 70s. And because there are no more barber or beauty shops anywhere it's easier to grow long hair.
- People routinely wear imaginative rubber masks to hid radiation burns. Some are so creative they have Masked Balls and award prizes such as extra food rations.
- Capes are worn by all the classes in Tunnel Towns.
- Sneakers are often banned in tunnel colonies in favor of the 50th itineration of Crocs.
Teenagers still say the darnest things...
Girl to Girl; "Whatever Mary Lou, why don't you go work at McDonalds?" No one is sure what it means but it has been elevated to fighting words in the 22nd century.
Politicians are still stupid...
but people don't pay any attention to them. They live in different cave enclaves where their lies bounce off the padded walls in never ending arguments.
Finally, I suspect survival will still be trending in the 22nd century with its new challenges.
As it Stands, you may be thinking, the hell with the future what about right now? I don't blame you. I'm worried too. However, I thought a little dark humor might brighten your day.
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