Culture is ordinary

"Culture is Ordinary" by Raymond Williams redefines the understanding of culture emphasizing everyday aspects and lives of the people.

Firstly, Williams emphasises that culture is strictly not defined by arts or literature but the way of life also is part of culture. In different places, households carry many rituals and traditions from generation to generation. This too is a part of culture. For example, every morning some of the families draw "kolam" in front of their houses, this practice does not change even after the relocation to a place or a new environment. These cultural practices continue to be passed on to the next generation.

Secondly, William says that culture is not static but it changes regularly based on social interactions. People often migrate from place to place and interact with many individuals. In this process, the cultural practices are also shared. These practices change throughout time due to the influence of external factors. For example, years back women were given a stereotypical gender role confined in their space but now they are not restricted to their "roles" that have been dictated by the patriarchal system. 

Thirdly, William talks about how culture is connected to social and political factors. The powerful can decide the cultural changes accordingly. For example, the cola company designed Santa Claus as a stout bearded man in red and released it on Christmas Eve which began a tradition that continues. Children are told about Santa Claus and the same costumes are worn during that festive period. The influence of the advertisement on the people became a culture of its own.

Finally, when a topic of culture arises it majorly focuses on the elite segment of the society. The art forms are highly praised and celebrated but what about the local games that are played on the streets? Culture is defined only based on popularity often neglecting the other practices that are part of daily life. Raymond William tries to shed light on the neglected aspect of cultural identity.