Jan 12 2008
The Anglosphere Cringes, Part 4
The government of Northern Ireland has managed to simultaneously embarrass comic-book fans and English speakers in general. According to its website:
Six super heroes swept into Belfast today to help launch a unique new comic aimed at promoting and defending the rights of small children.
Herbie Healthy, Sophie Safe, Archie Achiever, Emer the Eco Girl, Donna Does-a-lot and Rory Rights… joined Junior Ministers Gerry Kelly and Ian Paisley Jnr at the headquarters of the play agency, PlayBoard, to unveil the “Super Six” comic to a group of primary school children.
[end quote]
Some quick thoughts.
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Northern Ireland has a “play agency.” !?!
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I think any self-respecting three-year-old would burst into tears if forced to read any comic book about Donna Does-a-lot or Emer the Eco Girl. In fact, even conceiving these comics is an attack on the dignity and rights of children.
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“super heroes” and “super powers” look awkward. I recommend “superheroes” and “superpowers”. Would you want to read Super Hero Nation? That sounds like a Japanese drinking game.
