Pronoun use in Articles–Chicago Tribune
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/ct-met-schmich-0126-20110126,0,3684840.column
The article I decided to use was an article that was recently in the Chicago Tribune. It is an opinion article about whether or not Colin Firth is the sexiest actor in movies today–don’t judge me, this is for class credit only. I have no personal interest. At any rate, the author makes compelling arguments using many pronouns: you, we, us, I etc. It works. She really seems to squeeze her way into a role that is not an authoritative figure, but instead just a normal person with a subjective opinion like everyone else. I think she uses a nice combination of her own opinions along with opinions of women that were surveyed on the subject. The bulk of her piece is quotations of other women; it makes the article flow well. It seems to me that maybe Firth is the “old ladies” version of Edward from Twilight. Maybe he’ll have 40 year old girls chasing him down the street in his loafers and sweater.
I can’t write any more; I feel awkward.
January 27th, 2011 at 11:14 PM
I enjoyed both this post, and the article. I agree that the use of pronouns were appropriate. This was obviously a light hearted article, as clearly stated in the opening of the piece. If the author were to use the term “one” instead, it would seem an awkward pairing with such a silly topic. On a side note, Colin Firth is not even that attractive, just saying.
January 31st, 2011 at 9:27 AM
Even though that might be awkward for you, I am sure that you could have found a different article. I don’t see how you can make the argument for the sexiest actor ever without bringing Johnny Depp into the conversation. Did she bring up any other examples of other possibilities? Just some food for thought.