The ever-growing cult of Bono-ism
 By Grainne McLoughlin
What’s the difference between God and Bono? God doesn’t walk
around pretending to be Bono.
That’s how the joke goes but Bono has created something of a religion
in that he inspires the great and good to do great and good work.
The latest of those who have converted to Bono-ism is Brad Pitt. Denying
his current dedication to global humanitarian efforts is the result of
his relationship with UN goodwill ambassador Angelina Jolie, the Ocean’s
Eleven star says it was the Irish rock star who provided the leading light.
The movie star — who is currently expecting a baby with his Mr and
Mrs Smith co-star Jolie — told America’s TV Guide publication
that it was Bono’s high-profile efforts and the fact he is a ‘wonderfully
dedicated beast unto himself’, which inspired him to get involved
in charity work.
The U2 frontman will no doubt be pleased with Pitt’s support but
elsewhere the Dublin singer has said he feels exploited.
Bono made the complaint to Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi because
of the use of his image in an election brochure trumpeting the Italian
government’s successes.
The singer wrote an open letter to Berlusconi saying: “As flattered
as I am of appearing in your brochure, I also feel a bit exploited.”
He added in the letter — which was published on the front page of
an Italian newspaper last week — his concerns that Berlusconi’s
government had not fulfilled pledges made at the G8 conference in Scotland
last year.
Bono wrote: “If your commitment is real then the world want to know
just how Italy intends to fulfil this.“I would be honoured to have
my name in a leader’s manifesto which keepspromises to poorer nations.”
No doubt after that, there will be a few more converts to ‘Bono-ism’.
|
