Nobody ever said anything worthwhile that could fit on a bumper sticker.
If it won't fit on a bumper sticker, it's not very likely people will remember it.
Which is true?
Probably both. Unfortunately. The sound bite republic would argue that you "support our troops," or "just do it." You can definitely win a short conversation by saying "shock and awe," but it's a little more difficult to actually shock anyone, or make them awestruck.
Unless they give a shit about what you have to say already. If you can create a context for caring with your actions, it's possible to continue a conversation past three words. Maybe not so easy for most, but it's probably better than following Maurice Saatchi into the fool's paradise of one word equity, or any reasonable facsimile.
So, where does that leave us? We're not really just advertising anymore, are we?
photo thanks to Elliot Swan
Paul: I tried to hit the link on onewordequity but it took too long to load. So I bailed out. I think I just validated your point, didn't I?
Posted by: Stephen Denny | March 20, 2007 at 09:45 PM
Seems we are not drowning, but waving. Our intentions are being misunderstood, reclassified and de-sensitized.
We have to forget advertising, cutting through or interrupting. If its not about shared storytelling -- yours, mine, ours -- then forget it.
Posted by: Gavin Heaton | March 20, 2007 at 09:45 PM
How about "What Would Stan Do?"
Posted by: James-h | March 20, 2007 at 11:35 PM
Just say no! Why? Cut and run! From what? Who gives a shit? That's all I'm sayin', Man!
Posted by: Lewis Green | March 21, 2007 at 09:22 AM
Paul: Who is the 'us' you are referring to in this argument? That will help me reply properly.
Posted by: Kristasphere: Home of the 24-7 Brand | March 21, 2007 at 11:08 AM
Stephen- Yup, I find it a bit odd that one word equity takes some many words to explain. Tantalizing, eh?
Gavin- Well said, my friend. Maybe that's why tv advertising sucks so bad, no back and forth.
James- Which Stan talkin'? As in Richards?
Lewis- You got my favorite! Cut and run!
Krista- By us I mean the ad industry mostly. Bueno?
Posted by: Paul McEnany | March 21, 2007 at 08:42 PM
"WORD."
Posted by: Sara | March 21, 2007 at 09:39 PM
And, "word," to you, my dear. Where the hell have you been?
Posted by: Paul McEnany | March 22, 2007 at 08:15 PM
Is there any other?
I think it'd make a helluva bumper sticker.
Posted by: James-H | March 23, 2007 at 08:52 AM
Since we are talking bumper stickers. Please SHOW the Nation who you support. http://www.ineedapresident.com
Posted by: chad | April 03, 2007 at 12:50 PM