I must say that Terence Blacker shares some of the negative character traits of the cynical world of modern entertainment. On the one hand, he is correct in his analysis of the nature of showbusiness. But on the other, he fails to see the sincerity of the many people who recognised Susan Boyle's God-given gift, her voice, coupled with her down-to-earth unpretentiousness.

The reaction of the judges to her when she stood before them was clearly etched on their faces. Here were people, just like most of us, judging the book by the cover. But once she started singing – and singing in no ordinary voice – they were stunned. And prior to all that, her disarming character and personality shone through to the hearts and minds of the uncynical.

As to the teary Hollywood actress, how does Terence Blacker know that she isn't an ordinary person at heart? I have often been guilty of the kind of cynicism of which Blacker writes. But sometimes, such as with the appearance of the likes of Susan Boyle, this negativity can be stripped away.

Michael O'Byrne,

Main Street,

Kilcar, Co Donegal.