A conversation analysis with Colin and Bradley

[plain_jane08]

For my Linguistics course I had to write an essay analysing a conversation, specifically, an interview. I chose to do this interview with Colin and Bradley. (The Geek Syndicate one from the BFI event.) I'm mainly discussed power dynamics. I must say, it is SO strange to be writing about Colin and Bradley and have it not be a fanfic! My brain kept

Comments

[anonymous]

Your word choice seemed a bit loaded - is that standard for linguistic analysis? The presupposition of competition and the word "dominance" seems a little surprising as both Colin and Bradley are working towards a common goal - the promotion of a show that has benefited both of them enormously. Your context of competition is also seems to ignore that that these two have worked in a collaborative venture and that their willingness to collaborate is key to their success. They both a lot of attention to the nuances of the other.

My take is that in the ten minutes you chose to analyze is that Bradley chose to defer to Colin. As the latter is titular head of the program, this is not surprising. Bradley is also clearly short of sleep and probably grateful for any word choice help or expansion of ideas that Colin can give. In other interview segments, Colin sometimes comes across as submissive, quiet, nervous - whatever emotional construct you choose to put on it. This particular interview segment, as many have already pointed out, Colin is unusually relaxed and comfortable. My personal bias is that Colin is happy to have Bradley there after being without him at SDCC or the May Expo and that Bradley, although tired, is happy to be there with Colin after not having been at the other events.

[anonymous]

SA

Meant to also say that interviews are artificial constructs, unlike conversations which evolve more naturally. If you really want to push Colin being dominant, go back to Colin talking about his first stunt. Colin talks, Bradley cuts him off, Colin reproves Bradley, Bradley accepts the reproof. On the other hand, Bradley's standard slouch at BFI can either mean "I'm so fricking tired I can't stand it" or "I'm in control."

Whatevs. I think these two respect each other a lot.

[amazonbard88]

Whatevs. I think these two respect each other a lot.

I don't think she was implying otherwise. =)

[marvelpku]

I think it is academic analysis. So feel free to use the word dominate and anything you want.
Sometimes, academic is more about scentific , rather than emotional accepted things. So others might feel a bit upset by sraightforward decription. But personally I think it provides a good perspective and shows how much you care about Brad/Col. I support you firmly and I think this is a very good try. I am sure you will get better and better with you acdemic study in the future. Nobody is perfect and 100% right at the first beginning but those who tries will definitely improve and finally benefit from their hard work.