Tamale Traditions Amy Coplen Analysis

The connection between humans and the land has undeniably been a source of vitality and community for centuries. In recent history, many people are becoming more and more alarmed by the disappearance of this natural land they grew up on, and therefore the memories connected with this land. In Tamale Traditions, by Amy Coplen, the author utilizes anecdotes and careful word choice to manipulate the reader’s emotions toward understanding this invaluable connection. Her goal in provoking strong emotions in the reader is to make them more receptive of her message of environmental conservation. Throughout this passage, the writer consistently, and persuasive, builds up her argument through making the blanket statement that all humans are connected to nature. Through this connection we have built a irreplaceable relationship with the land and our communities that is now being destroyed in the modern age. Right off the bat, Coplen strategically begins her persuasive, argumentative essay with a personal anecdote. Here she describes a heartwarming family moment: making tamales with her mother, grandmother, cousins, and aunts. This memory is filled with warm, joyful imagery in order to evoke emotions …show more content…
Namely, the use of anecdotes allow the reader to experience her connection to tradition, and thus the land, along with loss, which leaves the reader not only with a relationship to Coplen, but a genuine understanding of her loss. By creating this kinship with her reader she has left them very open to her argument, which she secures in slamming the reader with shocking and starling word choice that illustrates just how dire Coplen view the situation. Overall, the author productively readys the reader to hear her argument, and in presenting said argument she is able to confront the reader with the reality of the