NO SMOKING!

The message itself is brought about in a very unique approach. It is much unlike the typical anti-smoking advertisements, that simply state the devastating results of smoking, and leave the rest to the conscience of the individual. The ad, in this case, is more positive, and reflects a sense of hope if the primarily targeted audience did speak to their children about the issue of smoking at a young age.

Another value or characteristic of the given advertisement we could consider is the broad audience that it has the ability to attract. As discussed in class, we reached the conclusion that no specific race or ethnicity is isolated in the visual, resulting in a broader audience. This is also significant for the purpose of the advertisement, as it is able to send out the message and include many more individuals.

Leaning more towards analysis of the visual aspects, one could notice the calm and serene feeling that is instantly felt when the advertisement is first seen and examined. This feeling is emphasised by the stillness of the water, among other aspects. It helps convey the message in the way that, perhaps, the entire idea should be approached: with patience and in a calm manner.

The symbolic meaning in the advertisement (Aiden's genius, not mine) is also significant in this situation. It all lies in the visual. Firstly, the act of fishing is a depiction of patience, which, as previously mentioned, is the way these conversations should be approached. Another symbolic portrayal in the image can be found when considering the contrast between the conditions in the sky and the water. The water is calm, yet the sky suggests an approaching storm. Collectively, this may portray the idea of the problem before hand (storm) and the solution after the conversation is executed (water).

The targeted audience is empowered and served by this advertisement. They are even given instructions as to how to approach the conversation that are symbolically hidden within the advertisement. The teenagers or children themselves may also benefit, as the advertisement may emphasise the issue further, and assure their awareness of it. In connection to previous points, the advertisement individualises no specific race of ethnicity, and therefore no one can really be excluded or ignored. It reaches out to everyone.

Should not wearing seat belts be illegal?

Nowadays, many people of rebellious nature, teenagers in particular, seem to ask the question: why wear a seat belt? The real question is: why not? Why not reduce your chance of death or severe injury? It's your life isn't it?

Statistics from the Centres of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that in the United States, over 2.2 million adult drivers and passengers were treated in hospitals as a result of car accidents in 2012 alone. This puts emphasis on just how extreme the issue is, considering the fact that car accidents are the leading cause of death to people aged 1 - 54 years.

The sad reality is that most people know of the benefits that seat belts have to their safety on the road, yet they still travel long distances without being tied in. They're very much aware of the fact that, at any moment, they could be flying through the wind screen, head first at 120 km/h, with blood gushing from their brains. The even sadder reality is, that could be you.

For these reasons, not wearing seat belts should be considered illegal. That would be the most reasonable law ever enforced. It's like making death illegal, in a way. This would prevent casualties be almost 50%, a fact with which comes no disadvantage what so ever. Annual statistics would change for the better. Life's would change for the better.

A law such as this would really get one to think about the difference it makes to wear a seat belt. It could be the difference in your children's or your families future. It could be the difference in your tomorrow, if you have one.

Wear your seat belt. What do you have to lose?