My Husband's Nine Wives By Elizabeth Joseph
"My Husband's Nine Wives," an essay written by Elizabeth Joseph, effectively describes a woman's life made easier due to the principle of polygamy. Polygamy, otherwise known as plural marriage, remains illegal in the United States today; however, it is possible that polygamy go undetected by law because of a marrying couple's intentional negligence to obtain proper certificates or licenses. This essay, written with a touch of humor, while at the same time maintaining its'realism, lays out the advantages of polygamy in a nonchalant manner. Through believable techniques in writing and a relaxed nature, Elizabeth Joseph's "My Husband's Nine Wives" sets a precedent for the modern career woman.
The style of writing used in this essay allows for an easy grasping and understanding of polygamy. Initially, the audience becomes involved due to the author's writing tactics. The essay, constructed to attract modern career women or women in general, and to turn them on to polygamy, offers insight to the reader. This essay appeals to modern career women through the constant reminders of the difficulties surrounding monogamous relationships such as always having to compromise (128). In addition, the authors choice in tone strengthens the essay. The author sets a reassuring tone which the reader can very easily relate to. Getting her point across, the author, not taking her point to the extreme, but instead using a relaxing, yet serious tone demonstrates the professionality of the essay. Most importantly, persuasion remains the key to the effectiveness of the essay. The dramatic description of life made easier due to polygamy forces the audience to ponder. For example, the detailed paragraphs on the magazines and talk shows that discuss the dredging problem of mothers "successfully juggling [their] career[s], motherhood, and marriage" (128).
Following the style of writing, the attractiveness of polygamy adds to the effectiveness in Joseph's "My Husband's Nine...
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