In the article, “Kanye, that Dame has Class” writer Rex Murphy compares the status of today’s celebrities, such as rapper Kanye West, against those of the past, in the form of singer Dame Vera Lynn, an artist whose work reached promenience during World War II. This comparison was intended for the Canadian audience of The Globe and Mail, who might not be as sympathetic to either artist. In the article, Murphy ultimately mourns the lack of class between the two classes of icons. The writer uses a moderately advanced vocabulary, direct asides to the reader, and long quotations in order to create a superior tone which insults Kanye and section of modern society that follows him.
The summation of this diction, quotation, and failed direct address only serves to create an overly superior ethos through the entire piece. This can be seen easily through the juxtaposition of Kanye’s filler words such as ‘you know’ against words such as ‘tryst’, ‘analogy’, and ‘indelible’. The direct comparison further serves to place Murphy far above the likes of MTV viewers who might be fans of rap. Further, the mention of labels such as ‘Padre Leno’ and ‘Courvoisier’ creates an essence of sarcasm that is off-putting and dangerous. Many more people might have a more positive opinion about such things as Leno and Courvoisier. By belittling these items as part of Kanye’s inferior status, the author not only risks damaging his ethos but ultimately, his argument.
Bibliography
Murphy, R. (2009, September 24). Kanye, the dame has class. The Globe and Mail.
