I have recently started taking an AP Language class at my high school and am getting better, but I struggle with opening papers. What's the propler way to write the opening of a paper when writing about the technical or stylistic devices in another article or essay. (Specifically relating to the use of devices in accomplishing the purpose of the piece.) I want to be clear, but not simply state the facts in simple and low-style sentences.

Question

katy · Answer

If it helps any, I'm currently writing about Dr. Jonathan Swift's "A Modest Proposal" essay, but this advice could really help me throughout the class. I hope that because this is a reply people won't assume I found an answer :P

anonymous · Answer

You thesis statement should basically underline the entire focus of your essay. In the introduction/opening, summarize the essay that you're analyzing and outline various aspects of it, such as the technical or stylistic devices that you mentioned. After a brief summary, follow with a sentence such as "the author employs various stylistic devices in order to create/accomplish this and that". The following paragraphs should then analyze each mentioned element in greater depth.