On the Decline of September

For me, September used to be the most poignant, exciting and depressing of all 12 months.

School used to start in September. It still does for many, but for how much longer? Year-round schools, American back-to-school in August, and the inevitable arrival of e-learning will eventually spell the end September's identity as the start of the school year. In my family's life already, this September was just another month. When my youngest daughter enters Grade 1 next year, maybe I'll feel the emotional wallop of September once again, but it feels like years since I have.

Autumn used to start in September. I realize it still does on paper, but with Mother Nature's recent tendency to season surf, it doesn't feel like spring ever really left or summer ever really gained a foothold, and now fall is looking a bit like all three. September's once proud place in the turning of the seasons is irrevocably under assault.

September used to be the single most important month in the television calendar. It's not even a good month any more. Only a few network shows that are mildly interesting will be starting up in September. Fewer than October, fewer than January/February, and probably fewer than June/July. Cable delivers the goods all year round. PVRs and the Internet are non-stop. As a kid, the Toronto Star TV magazine used to do a special Season Preview every September and I'd pour over its contents religiously. Those days are long, long gone.

September used to herald yet another exciting and promising Toronto Maple Leafs season. Fresh off the previous year's thrilling playoff victories, even a Stanley Cup or two, I remember looking forward to September's training camp as a time to take great pride in my home team. Other teams might have their false hopes in September, but only the Leafs were a sure thing. Oh, the joy of another season. How would they do it this year? By how many points would they lead the league? Which Leafs would lead the league in goals? In assists? In overall points? Alas, the Leafs are not as dominant now as they were in the '80s and '90s. Heck, they nearly missed the playoffs last year.


September, I lament your decline. You will be missed.


(Go Leafs Go! Save next year's September!)