American Idol

How to understand this phenomenon? I have to admit I am addicted and I need to understand why. It's not the singing, after all. Most of the talent is minor at best. I try to analyse what I enjoy so much. If I am honest I suppose I am feeling a sense of superiority - seeing most of the contestants working so hard but succeeding only a little, is reassuring. It tells me that if this is the way people function, I am not doing so badly. Even when I fail, I am human like the rest of them.
But surely my enjoyment is not just sour grapes. That would be so mean-spirited. I have to hope not.
I do feel the excitement of the contestants and experience their ups and downs with them - a kind of vicarious thrill. I am happy when the best and the brightest (and even the most attractive) are voted in and get into cheering them on each week - rather like cheering on your favorite hockey team. I like some of the music - although many of the songs are butchered beyond belief, and that is not fun to hear.
Simon is important. Without him I wonder if I would bother turning it on. The Canadian Idol show soon lost its appeal for me as the hostess (I have tried to forget her) was very irritating and the panel members insincere and artificial. Yes, it is Simon that really does it for me.
He is so honest and accurate in his withering comments. He is the ultimate cruel-to-be- kind paternal figure. He is Idol for me.