I have an essay due every week till November, so...
Published Wednesday, September 07, 2005 by dee | E-mail this post
The ad is from the Singapore Tourism Board and is fucking hilarious.
Apologies but this is the best shot (stupid washed-out newspaper print) I could get of the copy, which reads:
An island of contrasts, Singapore is home to modern architecture marvels and historical splendour. You can't miss the Esplanade, our landmark arts centre, which is reminiscent of a durian. From avant-garde theatre to traditional Chinese opera, you'll find an abundance of art here. Mythical creatures and youthful self-expression exist in harmony. And whilst you meander along the five-foot ways in Chinatown, five-star luxury is never far away. So call your travel agent ... etc etc...
Hello, STB copywriters? Were you smoking crack? What the fuck were you guys thinking?? The Esplanade, "which is reminiscent of a durian"??? "Abundance of art"? Who says that?? "Good golly, there is such an abundance of art in Singapore; I've just been to see Dim Sum Dollies at the Esplanade, which, incidentally, my good man, is reminiscent of a durian."
I like the bit about finding "mythical creatures and youthful self-expression exist(ing) in harmony". Seen any unicorns and centaurs at The Heeren lately? The only mythical creatures blessed with youthful self-expression I know of were the Far East Kids.
On a slightly different topic, my vote for the "Hah?? Say again?" quote of the day is from British PM and erstwhile sage Tony Blair on Central China Television's political programme, Top Talk:
What they understand, they do not fear.
What they do not understand, they can fear.- On how people in other countries needn't be afraid of China.
I bet the likes of Kim-Kyna Tan was responsible for that copy...
Aiyoh, eh...
so biatchy!! hehe...