The skeleton at the feast =A person , event or thought that in the midst ( the middle) of pleasant and cheerful circumstances acts as an unpleasant reminder

A bright spark ( Ironically applies to a fool)

To speak out=Of a person speaking his mind

To speak up=To speak louder .

A slow coach=A person who does things slowly.

To strike an attitude=To use words and manners designed to make an impression.

I can’t put up with this situation=I can’t stand this situation.