"A Modest Proposal"

"A Modest Proposal" is a proposal written by Jonathan Swift, an Anglo-Irish writer, in which he suggested a solution to overpopulation in Ireland. Swift's proposal stated that the children of poor Irish citizens be eaten, in order to "Prevent the children of poor people in Ireland from being a burden to their parents or country, and for making them beneficial to the public." Although Jonathan Swift made it appear serious, really, it qualifies as satirical work in a few ways. The proposal qualifies a satire in the fact that it is repulsive yet somewhat humorous in the way that he suggests that children be eaten. Another way it can be considered satire is in the way that it kind of shows an example of other ideas which officials sometimes make in order to solve problems such as Donald Trump's proposal to get rid of all immigrants from a country which prospered through immigrants. In order for Swift to convey his message, he uses diction in a very formal manner by choosing to use simple yet impressive vocabulary rather than only simple words. Swift's use of syntax also helps convey his message by him writing in a polite manner and sending a feeling as if though he were very thoughtful about the subject. Swift's use of tone helps improve his proposal's effectiveness by using a serious, yet polite tone which helps in making his proposal thoughtful.