The letter suggests an unconventional presidential candidacy: an ordinary citizen, lacking political experience or prominence, as a symbol of relatable leadership.
The author portrays himself as a modest, unassuming individual, emphasizing his lack of political achievements, articulation skills, and wealth. His intention is to present himself as a representative of the common person.
The letter is written in a satirical and humorous tone, contrasting the typical expectations of a presidential candidate with the author's self-deprecating description.
Sir, – I wonder if the people of Ireland would like an ordinary Joe Soap as president.
Somebody like me, for instance.
I am not well known. I am not a member of any party. My achievements in life are extremely modest. I am not very articulate. I can’t write for nuts.
I have no grand messages for the people of Ireland. I am neither rich nor poor, though closer to poor.
I can’t imagine anything I would do or say as president would offend any ordinary person like myself.
I would continue to live in my modest home. The Áras could be converted into apartments for poor people. And 90 per cent of my salary would go to community groups.
I would receive foreign dignitaries in my home as I receive all guests and visitors (I make a mean lemon cake).
Don’t all trample over each other in your rush to nominate me. – Yours, etc,
TOM KELLY,
Broadstone,
Dublin 7.
If you often open multiple tabs and struggle to keep track of them, Tabs Reminder is the solution you need. Tabs Reminder lets you set reminders for tabs so you can close them and get notified about them later. Never lose track of important tabs again with Tabs Reminder!
Try our Chrome extension today!
Share this article with your
friends and colleagues.
Earn points from views and
referrals who sign up.
Learn more