Why E.B. White Used Compare and Contrast Like a Boss in "Here is New York"
So, you've picked up Here is New York and you're wondering why old E.B. White decided to throw a compare and contrast party in the middle of his love letter to the city. Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into the mind of a literary genius (or at least try to).
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| Why Does The Author Use Compare And Contrast In Here Is New York |
The City as a Dual Personality
White was a smart cookie. He knew that New York wasn’t just a city; it was a complex, multifaceted beast with more layers than a mille-feuille. To capture this complexity, he used compare and contrast like a maestro conducts an orchestra.
The Tourist vs. The Resident: One of White's favorite pastimes was to pit the wide-eyed tourist against the grizzled New Yorker. It's like watching a baby deer try to navigate a busy highway. The tourist sees a city of dreams, while the resident sees a city of survival. This contrast highlights the stark reality of urban life.
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
Old New York vs. New New York: White was a bit of a nostalgic soul. He loved the old New York, with its horse-drawn carriages and leisurely pace. But he also recognized the city’s ability to reinvent itself. By comparing and contrasting these two eras, he paints a picture of a city in constant flux.
Uptown vs. Downtown: This classic dichotomy is a staple of New York storytelling. White uses it to explore the different lifestyles and attitudes of people living in different parts of the city. It's like comparing apples and oranges, but somehow, it works.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
Why Bother with This Comparison Stuff?
You might be thinking, "Who cares about the difference between tourists and residents? I just want to enjoy the book!" But hear me out. By using compare and contrast, White creates a deeper understanding of the city. It's like peeling an onion – you keep peeling back the layers and discovering new things.
Plus, it's entertaining. Watching White juggle different perspectives is like watching a tightrope walker. You're on the edge of your seat, waiting to see if he'll fall flat on his face. But he never does.
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
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How to Understand Compare and Contrast in "Here is New York"
How to identify the different perspectives: Pay attention to the language White uses. When he's talking about tourists, he often uses words like "awe," "wonder," and "excitement." When he's talking about residents, he uses words like "struggle," "survival," and "routine."
How to appreciate the complexity of the city: Try to see New York through both the tourist's and the resident's eyes. It's like putting on a pair of different glasses. You might be surprised at what you see.
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
How to enjoy the ride: Don't get too bogged down in the details. Just relax and enjoy White's witty observations. After all, that's what reading is supposed to be about.
So, the next time you pick up Here is New York, keep an eye out for White's compare and contrast game. It's a masterclass in writing, and it's a lot more fun than you might think.
Bonus Tip: If you really want to impress your friends, try quoting White's compare and contrast passages at your next dinner party. They'll be so amazed by your literary prowess, they'll forget to bring a casserole.
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