Ivins uses a majority of words derived from middle English and French. Her choice of words makes the tone of the writing more conversational and colloquial. Words such as “wacky,” and “catch up” present a tone that is much more informal and relaxed, however, she is still able to get her main point across in a clear, sharp way. (colloquial diction)
Ivins prefers shorter sentences. She keeps her sentences short and quick to keep her argument simple. By keeping a greater part of her sentences short, she is able to get to her argument faster without any unnecessary fluff. Ivins begins with her wit, to present humorous examples which aid her argument, and then she builds up to her main point, that there should be stricter gun laws.
While this selection does not contain any metaphors or similes, it does portray Ivin’s sense of wit. For example, she explains how instead of pro-gun she is pro-knife: “You have to catch up with someone in order to stab him...a substitution of knives for guns would promote physical fitness.” Her wit is essential to the argument because it is her way of arguing that makes an impact on her readers. Not only does it appeal to humor, but it also reinforces her argument.
Ivins uses a comic and colloquial tone. By starting…show more content… Didion uses descriptive language to describe her time back at home. She notes small things that bring back some type of sentiment such as “Three teacups hand-painted with cabbage roses and signed ‘E.M,.’ my grandmother’s initials.” Her use of the words “hand-painted,” and “cabbage roses,” draws back to the subject of memories and past lives. “Hand painted,” gives the illusion that time and patience went into making that particular item, and may carry special importance. By describing the teacups with such detail, one may infer that they have impacted the narrator in some way. Overall Didion uses calm diction, which creates a sense of tranquility in her
