"I love this country, but the union jack leaves me cold"

This quote by Timothy Garton Ash talks to the complex relationship between patriotism and national identity. Garton Ash reveals his love for his country, but also acknowledges that the national sign of the Union Jack does not stimulate the exact same emotion in him. This suggests that Garton Ash's patriotism is not based on a superficial accessory to a flag or other signs, but rather on a deeper connection to his nation and its individuals. He may feel a sense of pride in his country's history and accomplishments, however he does not feel a strong emotional attachment to the Union Jack. This quote speaks to the concept that patriotism is not always tied to a nation's signs, however rather to a sense of belonging and connection to a place and its individuals.