Behind The Formaldehyde Curtain Analysis

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In Jessica Mitford’s “Behind the Formaldehyde Curtain,” she lists in order the procedure in which the deceased transform in a “beautiful memory picture” (Mitford 238). Better known as embalming, Mitford gives illustrative insight into a practice that many people are unaware of. Mitford come at it, however, with an informal and almost ridicule-like attitude which may translate to as offensiveness to those who practice embalming or even those reading. Despite the dispassionate attitude that may linger behind Mitford’s tone, it is through her word choice and structure that gives her piece a certain compelling factor. Mitford’s rhetorical strategies of describing and explaining a process illustrate what happens “Behind the Formaldehyde Curtain.” …show more content…
This technique is most helpful in not only expanding on an unfamiliar idea, but also bringing an element of imagery. This first example of this appears in the step of embalming where the cavity fluid drains from the body. Word choice such as “jabbed into the abdomen” with a long hollow needle and “poked around” the inside of the chest cavity really paints a ghastly picture to those reading (240). Mitford chooses this phrasing carefully in order to properly get her more throwaway tone across. This image of a long needle launching into a body for cosmetic reasons is not one seen regularly. Another example of Mitford’s describing strategy appears in the tasks of preparing the face for public viewing. A numerous amounts of maneuvers is necessary for this step of embalming. Pins inject into the lips through the teeth to give the illusion of a more youthful appearance while the cutting away at the inside of the mouth fixes and problems with inflation (241-42). This harsh description of a more careful procedure gives the impression of a laxer and careless atmosphere. Though the profession of embalming is one that deserves as much respect and consideration as another medical career, Mitford’s choice of description and wording gives the job a senseless and dishonorable way about
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