The whole Canadian thing

You would think that after living here for almost 4 years I would be aware of all the Canadian-specific things that I take for granted that American's don't know, such as Chinooks, keeners and Inukshuks. But I just had an epic conversation with someone who will go unnamed that must of set some sort of record. It went something like this:

Me: I just was digging up all this music I have, do you think you can name this tune? (playing piano)
Person: No, I don't know it.
Me: Really? It's All the Lovers in the World. (singing along to it)
Person: No, I've never heard of it, who's it by?
Me: Um, you know, the environmentalist piano player from the 80's -- blond crazy hair.
Person: Elton John?
Me: No, he's not gay.
Person: Well that doesn't really narrow it down all that much.
Me: Oh, it's on the tip of my tongue. Bruce... Bruce Cockburn! That's it.
Person: I've never heard of him.
Me: Really -- you can't be serious.
Person: No, I haven't heard of him. Is he Canadian?
Me: I don't think so. (going to the internet) Oh - look, he is Canadian!
Person: That would probably be why I don't know who he is.
Me: Wow, that's like some major 80's music for me. It's right up there with songs like Criminal Mind.
Person: I don't think I know that one either.
Me: (trying to sing the chorus) You know -- it's by Gowan. Lawrence Gowan.
Person: I don't think I've ever hear of him.
Me: Wouldn't it be funny if he were Canadian too? (looking on the internet) Hey - he is Canadian!
Person: *sigh*

Yes, it was a painful conversation, but just goes to show what happens when you take knowledge for granted. For the Americans out there, I have to explain that not knowing Bruce Cockburn or Gowan is like if you asked someone who Pat Benatar was and they had never heard of her. For the Canadians, well, you know where I'm coming from. Just thought I'd share the story...