Introduction: Close Reading of We’re No. 1 !
Thomas L. Friedman explores the reasons lying behind the decline of America in his article, as revealed through a close reading of “We’re No. 1 !” published in The New York Times. He synthesizes the viewpoints of Robert Samuelson and David Rothkopf, offering a comprehensive solution while comparing the actions of India and China to those of America. Friedman identifies crucial values that these countries are prioritizing, values that were once the bedrock of the American identity.
Friedman poses a rhetorical question and promptly provides an answer, asserting that India and China’s pursuits extend beyond “cheap labor and currencies” (11(L)) to encompass other fundamental aspects of the American identity. He enumerates these values, including free markets, education, access to capital, and the “willingness to postpone gratification” (11(L)). Friedman not only organizes this paragraph effectively but also employs suitable language and an instructive, comparative, and serious tone to convey his message.
Paragraph: Close Reading of We’re No. 1 !
In terms of organization, the paragraph begins with a rhetorical question that engages the readers, creating a sense of direct involvement, as seen in the query “Who will tell the people?” (11(L)). This approach effectively opens the paragraph, setting the stage for an insightful exploration of why other countries are catching up with America in providing a high standard of living for their citizens. Moving forward, Friedman skillfully lists these reasons in a single, albeit lengthy, third sentence, encompassing key factors such as “free markets,” “education,” and “access to capital and technology” (11(L)). As the paragraph approaches its conclusion, Friedman aptly ends with a sentence that serves as a fitting closure, emphasizing the value of “willingness to postpone gratification” (11(L)). This deliberate organizational structure, with the foundational value strategically placed at the end, is conveyed with precision through well-chosen wording.
Diction in Close Reading of We’re No. 1(1)!
In addition to the paragraph’s structure, the choice of diction is highly fitting. Friedman employs a straightforward style, avoiding the use of embellishments like similes and metaphors, except for one instance where he uses the simile “catching us” (11(L)), implying that India and China are in pursuit of America, which is apt. The specific phrase “Greatest Generation” (11(L)) is employed to refer to the forefathers who embodied the values enumerated in the paragraph. The phrasing used to describe the luxurious lifestyle of the present generation conveys a sense of lethargy, contributing to the idea that India and China are catching up with America due to a lack of willingness to postpone gratification (11(L)), emphasizing the need for delayed enjoyment and hard work. This diction aligns with Friedman’s tone, which is instructively comparative.
Comparison in Close Reading of We’re No. 1 !
Friedman draws a comparison between these countries and the values instilled in the American public by “the Greatest Generation” (11(L)). By referring to this generation, he alludes to the individuals of the 1950s to 1970s who embedded the principles of hard work and prioritizing their children’s education through personal engagement, as mentioned earlier. The tone becomes comparative as he observes that countries like India and China are now embracing the same values that were once quintessentially American. The positivity associated with values like hard work and “the highest expectations” (11(L)) has diminished, partly due to Americans no longer adhering to these principles and instilling them in their children. Meanwhile, other countries have adopted and embraced these values. In an earlier, somewhat despairing tone, he highlighted that American children are falling behind in education and in the adoption of technology needed to leverage the benefits of a free market.
Conclusion: Close Reading of We’re No. 1 !
In short, Friedman’s use of organization, diction, and tone in this article effectively serves his purpose. The well-structured organization, beginning with a rhetorical question followed by a detailed elaboration of the values in three sentences, delivers a clear message. The chosen diction is appropriate, with a mostly straightforward style, although a simile is used to vividly convey the idea of India and China “catching up” with America. The comparative tone emphasizes the loss of positivity in American values, now embraced by other nations. This paragraph, strategically placed at the end of the article, effectively encapsulates Friedman’s argument, highlighting the need to revive these values for America to regain its greatness.
Works Cited: Close Reading of We’re No. 1 !
- Friedman, Thomas L. “We’re No. 1!” New York Times, 12 Sept. 2010, p. 11(L). Global Issues In Context,
http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A236901782/GIC?u=aur58810&sid=GIC&xid=7767c700. Accessed 23 June 2018.
Relevant Questions: Close Reading of We’re No. 1!
- What rhetorical devices does Thomas L. Friedman employ in “We’re No. 1 !” to engage the reader and convey his message effectively?
- How does Friedman use comparative language and tone in “We’re No. 1!” to illustrate the decline of American values and highlight the adoption of these values by other nations, particularly India and China?
- In the context of “We’re No. 1 !”, what role does organization play in the article, specifically in the paragraph discussing the values of free markets, education, access to capital, and the willingness to postpone gratification? How does this paragraph contribute to the overall argument of the article?
