The show itself is also comical but as we are seeing the show through the narrators eyes it is more effective because of the immediate response and style. The show is presented in a stereotypical way showing an colourful, cheesy, tacky game show with, 'neon palm tress, lightbulbs', and 'neon steps' as well as the shows cringing catch phrase, 'Lashings of lolly!' The 'neon staircase' in which the game shows hostess Tiffany normally descends down 'in her purple sequin boob tube' is also stereo typical.
The way in which Tiffany is presented is funny but also sad, the over exaggeration of Tiffany brings across a typical game show hostess. Tiffany's character is presented in many ways, firstly the clear imagery of her is effective, 'she wore a pair of grey satin French knickers with real lace inserts, purple stilettos and one of those American footballers shirts with numbers on it'. Not only is Tiffany's image described, but her actions are described in a clear way that emphasises her every move, 'she wobbled something chronic on those purple shoes', 'she wobbled on each step'. The way in which Tiffany is described has a film like quality as each step she takes seems to be in slow motion. The presentation of Tiffany also makes her seem vulnerable because she is at her lowest point at this point in the novel. The reader pities with Tiffany because of her unhappiness and pregnancy, although Tiffany could also be portrayed as being pathetic and over dramatic.
The hazards reaction is funny although Tiffany's pregnancy is not. 'Tristram looked as though he was propping old Melchior up'. Not only are the Hazards reaction comical, but the audience plays a big part in this scene too, 'The odd cough, and titter, some platters of applause', 'the audience hadn't the faintest what was going on'. The description creates an unpleasant atmosphere in which this scene takes place and from this narrative style, the uncomfortable and embarrassing situation can also be sensed from the reader.
The reactions and characterisation of Brenda and wheelchair are also humorous. Wheelchair's manna is, 'cool but not cold, sympathetic without slobbering'. She then puts 'on a bit of funeral song' which is humorous as she is being over dramatic and quite insensitive because the words in the song are touching and negative, 'What is life for me without thee?'. Brenda's reaction before the phone call from the police is quite different from her reaction after. Brenda comes into the house in a rage and automatically shouts at Tristram, she even 'aimed a big whack at him'. After the phone call, Brenda is quiet, 'making little noises in the back of her throat', this quick change of atmosphere as well as reactions is effective as the audience is left in suspense.
In conclusion, Angela Carta uses many techniques to illustrate the game show scene in which the reader can feel a part of, it is funny, farcical yet sad. The narrative structure creates the intense atmosphere, yet the show itself is humorous as cruel humour is derived from other peoples sadness.
