Dear Sir,
I beg to differ with the sentiment expressed by Finn McRedmond in her recent piece (“Saoirse Ronan’s feminist victory is somewhat sickening”, Opinion & Analysis, October 31st). On the contrary, I found myself bursting with pride for Saoirse Ronan after her appearance on the Graham Norton Show last week.
Eddie Redmayne, during the show, discussed his training in using a mobile phone as a defensive tool for his new movie, The Day of the Jackal. When Paul Mescal made a sarcastic remark on the concept, Saoirse shot back, “That’s something girls have to consider all the time”. The room fell silent in response.
I believe it was a well-made point.
Evelyn Mahon, FTCD,
School of Social Work and Social Policy,
Trinity College Dublin,
Dublin 2.
Dear Sir,
Finn McRedmond’s opinion piece criticises talk shows as hollow, manufactured, and absurd. What she fails to mention is the pure entertainment they provide. The meticulously curated anecdotes might be contrived, yet they are oftentimes brilliantly executed and end up becoming beloved internet videos consumed by millions. The huge viewership of the Graham Norton Show is a testament to its ability to provide an enjoyable experience for its audience. Remember, the remote control is always within arm’s reach to avoid monotony.
Saoirse Ronan’s sudden, stark comment within this relaxed framework of light-hearted amusement brought about a sudden change of atmosphere. The effect of her serious remark was accentuated by the general levity, making it a moment of raw truth. It’s not likely to change anything, but it highlighted an important point.
She didn’t manipulate the resulting online reaction, and in my view, Finn McRedmond’s critique seems quite unkind.
Best regards,
Gemma McCrohan,
Dublin 16.
Dear Sir,
Could you spread some light on why Finn McRedmond opted for “Amirite, ladies?” as a quote from Saoirse Ronan during her appearance on the Graham Norton Show? Surely, this kind of wording is more fitting for the punchlines of a tabloid heading, even though humour can be found in those instances. In this particular case, however, I find no such consolation. Just to clarify, this is just my personal opinion. – Kind regards,
SEAN O’BYRNE,
Sallins,
Co Kildare.