1 para per argument... sorry about the uneven length of each :/
The author delves into Banksy’s brilliance and talent as an artist. The slang term "good old" before Banksy's name insinuates that the artist continuously fulfils the public's expectations. The sense of casualness, exemplified through the British vernacular, inspires readers to perceive both Banksy and the author as fellow British citizens who have their country's best interests at heart. Moreover, the repetition of up in “up and up" accentuates the incessant rise of Banksy’s prominence. Thus, readers are positioned to recognise his extraordinary talent and may be baffled as to why his masterpieces do not merit the title of Britain’s favourite artwork.
Further, the author accentuates the myriad of benefits stemming from Banksy’s artworks. The revelation that his pieces “expose [the] most sordid of aspects of society” may educe readers’ shock and challenge their preconceived notions that Banksy and by extension, graffiti artists, simply demolish buildings. Instead, the qualifier “most” highlights the power their art yields in tackling seemingly irresolvable problems. Simultaneously, through the verb “expose”, the author portrays Banksy in a righteous hue- with a deliberate intent of revealing morally ignoble acts. Hence, readers are challenged to view the public’s backlash towards as unwarranted and perceive those who are irate as ignorant of Banksy’s veritable intentions. Indeed, readers are compelled to realise that his artworks, which “slap [the problems] right in front of us” is an effective way which undoubtedly forces the public to acknowledge prevalent issues. Additionally, the author appeals to the middle class through the concession that the artwork is ”not as high class and sophisticated as some critics would like" (If I’m not analysing the quote, is there any point in quoting?) and by deliberately mentioning those who “may not have had the opportunity to attend a prestigious art school”. In so doing, readers may recognise the merits of art giving impetus to change to people who, like them, grew up without an artistic experience. Indeed, the repetition of “iconic” and “appreciate” spurs readers to question why they fail to treasure Banksy’s artworks, given its concomitant benefits.