The Use Of Parathion In Rachel Carson's Silent Spring

In this passage from her book, Silent Spring, noted biologist and environmentalist Rachel Carson details the harmful effects of using poisons, specifically parathion, not only on targeted animals, but entire ecosystems. Carson attacks farmers for using pesticides like parathion and argues that agriculturalists must consider the repercussions of ignoring the “universal” killing power of parathion before mindlessly eradicating bothersome animals. To support her central argument, Carson uses the extended metaphor comparing parathion to a murderer to create an emotional appeal that demonstrates the lethal environmental effects of pesticides. Additionally, Carson uses concrete diction to create a serious and intellectual tone that engages the reader and further supports her central argument. By describing parathion as a “universal killer” and an “unselective bludgeon,” Carson makes the reader feel opposed to, and even fearful of, the use of parathion. This emotional appeal further depicts the vast range of beings, that die on account of impetuous poisonings. The farmers “waged [a] needless war on blackbirds,” and, in turn, endangered the lives of countless wandering children and harmless animals. The metaphor of war …show more content…
“The casualty list included some 65,000 red-winged blackbirds and starlings,” Carson states, using conclusive evidence to show how a quick decision made by one person can wipe out thousands of beautiful creatures. When Carson details how workers “escaped death only through skilled medical attention” after being exposed to parathion, she clearly details the killing power of pesticides which further enhances the serious tone of this passage through concrete diction. By showing how parathion can kill humans, not only animals, Carson makes her argumentthat people must stop using pesticides