Explain the author's opinion on the man who knelt during the pledge as well as their general views on patriotism and freedom.
i should've been clearer.  the real "tragedy" in all of this isn't the fact that this dude knelt during the pledge; quite the contrary.  frankly, i could give a rat's ass about the pledge, the flag, and other associated symbols of "patriotism and freedom."  what perturbs me is his complete lack of creativity.  the man has a serious case of copycat-itis.  with having said that, i don't see flynn as some kind of patriot standing up for the oppressed, bringing attention to the injustices in our society.  instead, i see him as an unoriginal douchebag.