Surely Ann isn't saying that Edwards is like a bundle of sticks. Even if that's what she meant, why would anyone be offended?
Perhaps it's the anti-smoking lobby who's upset. Maybe they think Edwards smokes, or that he resembles a cigarette. I could understand that -- but, if that's what she meant, Ann would probably have used the more common term: "fag".
Maybe people thing Ann's calling Edwards a bassoon. I don't know why that would be offensive, but I can sort of see what she's getting at.
