From the introduction, the writer uses impeccable diction. He states, "topped with the kind of magic-transformative baloney that passes for an ending in too many otherwise-fine Hollywood adventures." Defore effectively describes the movie by writing, "teenage fantasies set in restrictive futuristic worlds." His word choice draws in the reader and tantalizes the mind to read further.
Defore also includes purposeful use of language. His figurative language consists of metaphors such as, "sand edges off a tale." He also includes similes like, "An atrium-like library." Including these writing techniques add voice and color. If these were absent, this article would not be as interesting to read. Metaphors and smilies enhance the review, making readers want to view the movie.
Lastly, there is apparent use of syntax to structure this piece. The author has a definite structure he follows. He begins with the setting, then discusses the plot, and lastly the characters. His long sentences are packed full with details and description of images from the movie. This review has a light-hearted critique as its tone, with humorous comments added such as, "old enough to make tween viewers swoon."
Examining this article causes readers to go more in depth in their studying of literature. The author includes several examples of rhetoric in his piece. He uses these skillfully in this article to review the movie The Giver.
While I actually hated reading The Giver in middle school, I did enjoy reading your post. I think, however, that you could do with more examples. The ideas are good, but they would be better if you elaborated on them a bit more. How does Defore's word choice draw in the reader? What makes his metaphors add voice to the piece? The best thing about this article, I think, is the subtle sarcasm that the author uses in parts of the article, such as when he talks about Aussie Thwaite as "old enough to make tween viewers swoon".
ReplyDeleteHey Hunter,
ReplyDeleteGreat Topic! I really enjoyed reading the Giver in middle school and your article reminded me of those times. Your thesis was well written and made a good opening for your analysis. Your ideas and example were good but you have to work on drawing them back to your thesis. How did these rhetoric techniques create a thorough review for the movie? For ex. In your 2nd paragraph, it’s true that figurative language can add voice and color but how does that review the movie? Overall good work with the analysis, next time just work on connecting your example more to the thesis.
Hi Hunter,
ReplyDeleteI really liked The Giver in middle school so I am really glad that you picked a review about this book. I think your close reading is very well organized and you make some really good points. For example, I like your quotes in the second body paragraph and how you explained why the author used similes.
Like Netra said, however, you could add a little more support to your statements. For example, in your third body paragraph, you mentioned that the overall tone of this piece is very light hearted. How does the author create this effect? Specifically, how does he use his diction, syntax and figurative language to get across the idea that is not being completely serious?