The Big Issue - Cover Comparison (Romesh) & (LEGO)

How do the Romesh and Lego construct representations which reflect The Big Issue's identity and values?

The Big Issue is commonly know among many for having a strong social conscience, they like to talk about social issues and appear to care about attempting to aid issues in society. Both of these cover appear to be relative to social issues. The Romesh cover is clearly concentrating on the common issues surrounding debt and financial troubles, the negative topic is juxtaposed with the use of Romesh and a comical cartoon-ish theme lighten the mood and make it appear to be a less harrowing read, encouraging more people to purchase the issue. Similarly, the Lego cover is concentrating on how many perceive the increasing use of mobiles as a solely negative thing. The Big Issues is attempting to educate many that it may not be as negative as many think, not only this but there can be many positive outcomes from the use of phones. The Big Issue is attempting to educate the readers on something, once again highlighting its social conscience.

The Big Issue always includes it famous tagline of  'a hand up, not a hand out' the deep nature of this message hits hard for many people. Not only is this magazine produced for our benefit, entertainment and education but The Big Issue has never lost sight of its original purpose, to aid and support the homeless though providing jobs as vendors. They wish to motivate the homeless and including them into society and helping them move forward and be able to cope with the unfortunate circumstances that put them in those positions. The fact that this is still their main goal and other objectives has not taken priority is a huge sign of the social conscience that they stand for, it continues along the journey whilst simultaneously attempting to help not only the vendors, but the readers by educating them on a wide variety of matters.