Persuasive Tactics in Steinbeck's "Paradox and Dream" Anonymous 10th Grade

In his article Paradox and Dream, John Steinbeck insinuates that the American culture has ways of showing progression, as well as the inevitable drawbacks that come with such an advancement in society. Steinbeck develops this insinuation by conveying how “American life is the process of changing, but, as always in human history, it carries some of the past along with it.” Steinbeck expresses how there are many aspects of the “American life” that are clear cut, however he offers these aspects as his own opinions which open them to criticism. Steinbeck’s purpose in the article is to reveal the common facts of life, while sealing off the doubt that comes with voicing one’s personal opinions. Steinbeck employs a hopeful and thoughtful tone to teach readers who can sympathize with his own ideology, that of which being, generalized opinions that should be subjected to great change.

Steinbeck’s “Paradox and Dream” can be viewed in multiple ways. However, his assertions all hold great truth to them. They each possess the earnest facts, facts that show how we as a people are currently situated in a detrimental way of life. One being that we as a society do, in fact believe that gender represents a sensitive subject that many would...