Closed Prompt #2 "Radiation patients share a survivor's song"

http://articles.latimes.com/2011/oct/03/health/la-he-myturn-waiting-room-20111003

Diction: Morrison uses diction that evokes a light-hearted mood in the reader, despite the inherently serious subject matter. The use of "jitterbug" gives the piece energy and vibrance. Describing cancer as being "zapped" away by radiation treatments makes cancer seem like a trivial little thing, and downplays the potential deadliness of the disease. "Zap" makes the process seem easy and final, masking the fact that radiation treatment can often cause terrible side effects and may fail to rid a patient of cancer.

Details: Morrison adds details that gives the piece a sense of calm and hope, when, given the circumstances of the subjects, there is so much potential for despair and anxiety. She describes the connection that all feel towards each other, given the frequency of the radiation treatments, and the common bond they share. The atmosphere of fellowship is enhanced by the communal enjoyment of the music and dancing, actions of happiness and friendship. The patients in the waiting room even sing together, an unusual act for most strangers in this day and age.

Syntax: Morrison uses relatively short, simple sentences to convey her ideas. No lengthy exhortations of her overall point are used. She states each idea like a fact, without a persuasive tone that throws itself at the reader. However, in my opinion, the style is more effective at giving readers the message and idea than long, elaborate sentences. Each sentence builds on the former and gives readers the whole picture, piece by piece.