Comparing Susan Collins And Cousin It: Like A Scottish Edith Piaf

a) The author writes in a reproving tone, as if she was a mother scolding her child. The message is about prejudice, stereotypes and judging a person by their appearance. The text takes a stand against the pressure and focus of the bodily idolisation in the society, neglecting those who are different and have other qualities, other than their demeanour. b) Different types of literary devices can be found in the text; allusion, simile, personification and hyperbole being a few. An allusion is a reference to another well-known character or event from another story, place or history. In the text, Tanya Gold uses allusions such as “Justin Lee Collins looks like Cousin It from The Addams Family.” or “She stood with her feet apart, like a Scottish Edith Piaf” These allusion creates an atmosphere filled with humour and associations. Comparing Collins with Cousin It brings forward variations and humour in the text. Comparing Susan Boyle with Edith Piaf also makes an impression. Edith Piaf, an elegant French singer with a strong and beautiful voice, compared to a rather interesting – looking Scottish woman. The comparison is not about Boyle’s appearance, but the greatness and strength in her voice, amplifying the
Gold used this when she compared Graham Norton with a baboon in mascara. This created again a humoristic atmosphere in the text. Lastly, Gold used hyperboles, extreme exaggerations that is not meant to be taken seriously. She used it when she wrote, “Simon rolled his eyes until they threatened to roll out of his head, down the aisle and out into the street.” and “The camera spun to a young girl, who seemed to be at least half mascara.” Using this literary device Gold manages to make the readers attentive of these negatively loaded actions and characteristics, creating a scolding and disapproving