The article, “Anna Bligh outperforms Julia Gillard in the greatest leadership test of all” by Susie O’Brien (14/01/2011) praises Queensland Premier Anna Bligh for being a “true stateswoman” in this time of crisis. Aimed at glorifying Bligh, O’Brien embraces an exalting tone as she attempts to position readers that Bligh is a genuine and honest politician who has performed admirably in response to Queensland’s latest deluge. The article is targeted at the general public, particularly those who have an interest in politics and politicians.
The article commences praising Bligh by labeling her actions as “calm, composure and compassion”- words which connote serenity, tranquility and a sense of safety- in order to indicate to readers that she is “genuinely in control”. Consequently, readers may be inspired by Bligh and commend her for her actions during this “unimaginable crisis”. In addition, the words “unflappable and so capable” paint a positive picture for Bligh and depicts her as a woman of imperturbability and assurance. O’Brien utilises these words to show Bligh’s good qualities and leadership skills. In turn, readers are highly likely to feel Bligh’s leadership and other women in particular may also step up to “confront the challenge”.
O’Brien quotes Bligh throughout the article to build her as an inspirational character. She shows how Bligh uses inclusive language such as “as we weep”, “We are Queenslanders” and “Together we can pull through” in order to include readers and make them feel as though they can be part of the solution. This is intended to evoke a sense of unity in readers who may feel that it is necessary for everyone to co-operate and get through this situation. Readers may also feel that they are in safe hands as O’Brien states that “Queenslanders will need every ounce of grit and determination” and that “this task will be made a lot easier with strong leaders like Anna Bligh to inspire them”. This is calculated to bring hope to readers and depicts Bligh as “a mantra for those struggling to come to terms with the tragedy”.
In an attempt to promote Bligh’s compassion, O’Brien juxtaposes Bligh to other politicians such as Gillard and Brumby. In doing so, she shows readers how well Bligh is handling the situation compared to how Gillard and Brumby have handled disasters in the past. Consequently, readers may feel a sense of respect towards Bligh for her seemingly “honest approach and gritty resolve”. Also, readers may feel indignant towards Gillard as she appears “wooden and unconvincing” during these times when Australians need her most. Finally, O’Brien implies that other politicians only seek to benefit themselves from disaster scenes and try to gain “political mileage”. In effect, readers are highly likely to be disgusted at these politicians who do not even have “a hair out of place” when they are on media. This is designed to recognise Bligh for being different to other politicians and for her genuine approach.
Accompanying the article is an image of Bligh and Gillard. Bligh is presented in the foreground of the frame. She is slightly off posture and her facial expression although calm; reveals a stressful past few hours. On the other hand, Gillard is shown in the shadow of the background showing no emotion. This image reinforces O’Brien’s juxtaposition of Bligh and Gillard as it shows the difference in emotions between the two, specifically Gillard’s lack of compassion. As a result, readers are invited to feel proud of Bligh and resentful at Gillard, someone who does not care and does not speak with any “direct knowledge”.
The crux of O’Brien’s article resides in its use of juxtaposition complementing his intentions of inspiring readers. Such juxtaposition is further compounded upon by the photograph comparing Bligh with Gillard. It is through such intricate composition that O’Brien intends to praise Bligh for her outstanding performance during the floods.
(640 words)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Reserved for improvements I can make.
-It seems I have avoided most technical errors such as being absolute on intended effect and evaluating the article.
-Need to actually increase the depth of my analysis
-Still need to improve contexualisation in intro
-More analysis, less of just stating what is in images
Home
Help
Search
Login
