S. P. WILKEN
ANALYZING ADS
New: Through the headline, “Crisply modern!” we can tell that this product is meant to be viewed as something shiny and new. Especially because this ad is targeted towards fathers (for Father’s Day), I think that the message might also be one of youth. Wear Old Spice cologne, and you will be young and modern and with the times.
Fear: There is a certain social stigma surrounding masculinity, and this advertisement really plays with that. Men often, especially in the vintage era from which this ad comes, seem to have a fear of not being masculine enough - not being man enough. One product in this ad is labeled “MAN-POWER,” which, in my opinion, exploits that fear or social stigma. If you want to be a man, buy Old Spice.
Nature: The advertisement claims that the product is, “Breeze fresh!” This implies a clean and natural fragrance. This also ties in with our theme of youth.
Plain Folks: This product is targeted towards the male population, specifically fathers. There is a man, a sort of classic father figure, looking at the product like he wants to buy it. He isn’t a celebrity - this could be Mrs. Next Door’s husband, Dick and Jane’s old man. Old Spice isn’t just something the rich and famous wear - your Dad likes it too!
Hyperbole: This one might be a bit of a stretch, but I think that this advertisement exemplifies a hyperbole in the headline, “Gift perfect!” That phrase not only enforces the “buy this for Father’s Day” theme, but implies that this product is perfect for your father. It is exactly what he wants, and exactly what he needs.
The purpose of this assignment was to show proficiency in my ability to recognize and analyze the different tools of persuasion in advertisements. It should be noted that not all tools of persuasion are used in this specific advertisement.
SHOW THE WORLD
ARTIST'S STATEMENT
This was an assignment meant to display our feeling and opinions on commercial media in society today. I finished it in as hurry, but I don't hate it. Hopefully it's self explanatory.