AP "Comic Effect"

Producing a comic effect by shifting from a date to an unexpected family reunion in "Kiss and Tell", Alain de Botton makes use of discrete characterization in order to demonstrate that the disconnect "'let on'" by the generational gap is not as strong as one may hope. In the girl’s prediction that “this is prime argument territory…Mum will be asking Dad where he put the car park ticket and he’ll get flustered because he’ll have dropped it into a bin by mistake”, de Botton supplies characterization to Isabel and both of her parents; because the prediction comes true, that characterization is cemented, and Isabel’s understanding of her parents is outlined. It is established through his actions and dialogue that Isabel’s father is forgetful and detail-oriented. Although Isabels tries “her best not to recognize” the similarities between herself and her mother, it is clear they exist. Both women appreciate the “Spanish domestic drama” and “nice” dresses, even if the daughter is resistant to admit it, claiming her mother’s dress “looks like a willow tree”. De Botton highlights the connection between the family members in characterizing them separately, but displaying deep-rooted understanding and love which seems to the characters as “coincidence”.