Barry asserts that scientists exist at the “frontier” of discovery though “only the best among them move deep into the wilderness.” Barry furthers his analogy by highlighting precarious nature of scientific inquiry. He likens research to standing on the edge of a cliff. One step can send scientists into a “world that seems entirely different.” Another step could lead directly to failure. In addition, Barry uses a string of rhetorical questions to further highlight his theories on the importance of scientific research.
Barry then moves on to the subject of success, establishing the hardships of the scientific research process. He persistently uses comparisons to emphasize the reality of success in scientific research and the procedure of getting there. Barry similar larly compares the other scientists that flood in quickly after a peak of a success to “laboratory mice that can be ordered from supply houses.” In referrment to lack of creativity in the subject of scientific research in general. To further advance the theories on the importance of scientific research, Barry uses various rhetorical terms to broaden the subject.
The importance of scientific research discussed in the essay expands to many categories among the subject. Barry uses several rhetorical terms such as, juxtaposition and extended metaphors to further his theories on scientific research,