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Rhetorical Analysis Of Lost In The Kitchen By Dave Barry

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When highschoolers hear the words “rhetorical device” a cringe automatically forms on their faces. They can sometimes seem annoying, confusing, and even unnecessary; however rhetorical devices are crucial to writing. Without rhetorical devices authors would find it hard to convey their purpose, tone, and voice; but with rhetorical devices these essential pieces of writing become simple to understand. Dave Barry’s essay, Lost in the Kitchen is a perfect example of how authors use rhetorical devices to achieve their goals. Throughout the essay Barry uses assertions, similes and metaphors, and diction. When authors use a rhetorical device it is, because they want their point to come across. This may sound simple, but if you present this in a boring way you fail to grab the reader’s attention. That …show more content…

It allows the author to enhance his/her points in a subtle way. It is also the beginning to great figurative language. Without diction writing would be dull, and repetitive. Authors use diction to intrigue the reader, and to strengthen their tone, voice, and purpose. Barry uses diction in Lost in the Kitchen when he says, “…doing something with those repulsive organs that are placed in little surprise packets inside the turkey (page 61).” By using words like “repulsive” and “surprise” it makes Barry sound childish. This adds to his humorous tone, because it is usually funny when a grown man is clueless like a child. This childish approach also helps improve his voice. Everyone can relate to feeling clueless or childish in a situation, so by using these words it appeals to his common-man voice. Additionally his diction supports his purpose. Beyond just having himself sound like a child these words reinforce the stereotypes of the kitchen, by having him seem disgusted and clueless when seeing the preparation of his food. Barry is able to use diction correctly, and therefore is able to use it to heighten his

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