RAGS AND RICHES Identity is a very important part of being Australian; it is a feeling of being associated with a national group, defined by a common heritage, which may be based on many attributes, including, race, language, territory and history. The article "Rags and Riches" written by Phil Brown addresses these issues of Australian identity. Both past and present views of popular culture are reinforced by a range of texts to construct a sense …showed first 75 words of 880 total…

…showed last 75 words of 880 total…as an example of a person with success and respect, while middle and lower class Australian's are silenced. Consumerism is emphasised to create a materialistic Australia, while more traditional aspects are excluded. It constructs Australians as being high spenders for symbols of success. In conclusion, with the use of gaps and silences, the article created a powerful representation of a very materialistic and aristocratic Australian identity by reinforcing values and beliefs that underpin the text.