As I have said before, satire is
misunderstood. When writing a satire that is close to real life, it
can be even more problematic if the author thought she was being
clever by changing names from reality. Then there is also the sticky
situation that real people might sue if they think they are being
unfairly insulted. It is a tough balancing act.
In writing this book there was
something that I consider a secret, or a perhaps puzzle for the
reader to figure out if they wish. Let's just say “the names have
been changed to protect the innocent” and the guilty. This
includes names of celebrities and the leaders of the nation. OK, the
last leader is rather easy to figure out: President Obamarama.
Well, duh. I thought it was funny, and I know I could have gone in
many other more critical routes. It just seems stupid to go after
the sitting president. Why not just ask to be put on a watchlist!
All the others President's names have
been “modified” as well. The first one I mention in the book is
Fauxman. Pretty easy right? So if you are nice enough to get a copy
of this fine satirical novella, check out the names. Some are
obvious, some are not. One more thing, if the name of the President
sounds strange, plug it into Google translate and see what you get.
You may get another giggle!
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