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Faith Liversedge's avatar

"Buuuuuuuudism" 😂 This is such a fascinating read Sharon and something I was discussing with someone last night actually as we were watching Harry Enfield's take on Dragons' Den. We were saying that you just couldn't air this now because of modern sensitivity. But also because, as you say, the few big characters left like Trump are beyond parody. Interesting too that you think instead we now have memes and shorter moments - I definitely think that's replaced it, especially if you think about mimicry being about social bonding. Thank you!

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Sharon Joslyn's avatar

Thanks Faith - we just can’t help it eh?! Times change but we all still enjoy watching (and attempting) a good impression!

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Faith Liversedge's avatar

I used to love doing them so much - this has reminded me!!

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Jules's avatar

What an interesting subject. Accents are like music to me, and some people do temporarily absorb the accent of the person they're speaking to. A fascinating post. Love the lyre bird. Thanks, Sharon 😀

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Sharon Joslyn's avatar

Thanks Jules. Niche subject, but one I’ve always been interested in exploring.

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Me Write stuff's avatar

Really interesting article and I have wondered why it has fallen out of favour - when someone mimics someone is it a form of flattery (in that your are so famous as to warrant copying)? Or is it cruel? Like those people who draw caricatures- there is a lot of exaggeration…but a little truth? Great stuff.

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Margaret Bennett's avatar

I find it totally absorbing watching someone mimicking another. It’s so clever. I guess when it’s acting it’s still acceptable.

A great piece Sharon.

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Maria McCarthy's avatar

Interesting stuff. I used to mirror accents as a child, especially when on holiday in Ireland. Re politicians these days, I don't like the media-trained personas they project. I tune out of what they're saying, which is rarely answering the questions that have been put to them. And, yes, they make it harder to pick up on their tics and tone of voice

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Sharon Joslyn's avatar

Exactly Maria - they’re so polished these days, all identikit and very dull.

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Dean The Sated Ire's avatar

I do impressions of cheese. I was thinking of adding them to my Substack, but I think they'll take something away from my political writing :D

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Sharon Joslyn's avatar

Dean - there are many strings to your cheesy bow!

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Dean The Sated Ire's avatar

Haha!

" ... and that's why we might all die in a nuclear war next week. Next up, Cheddar ..."

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Darren Wilson's avatar

Great article Sharon, I was just thinking the other day how mimicry seem to be getting a second wind on TikTok… while watching a chap perform an impeccable impression of the whole cast of the Sopranos reviewing the latest episode of The Pitt!

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Sharon Joslyn's avatar

Thanks fella

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Francis F's avatar

Love the lyrebird , sounds gorgeous! There’s a lady on insta that copies the Kardashians (I haven’t watched that show for years) but she brilliant 🤩. Thanks for sharing Sharon.

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Lewis Holmes's avatar

This is fascinating and I'm toying with similar subject matter for this week.

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