Parody

Parody holds reality up to a funhouse mirror, reflecting its distortions and amplifying them until absurdity reigns. Techniques include mimicking tone, structure, and clich's, then inserting outrageous deviations'a politician reading bedtime stories or banks offering free therapy. Parody's power lies in familiarity; readers instantly recognize the target. A poll of 400 citizens found 88 % felt parodies taught them more than official statements. Parody is not mockery'it's an educational amusement ride.