Monday, December 12, 2011

Close Reading

http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-myturn-ashes-20111205,0,1947552.story

Diction: Shaw uses pejorative diction when describing cremation to highlight his doubts regarding the practice. He describes the urn of ashes "squatting" on the mantle, not exactly the most dignified image that could be conveyed to the reader. He also compares cremation to a "medieval" Catholic practice, giving off the impression that he feels that the practice is dated and primitive. The "dessicated" fingers do not romanticize the Catholic practice, and comparing it to cremation does not put it in a good light.

Imagery: The image that Shaw describes of his hypothetical grave contrast greatly with his negative portrayal cremations.

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