Meatless but not Humorless

              In “Meatless Like Me” the author creates an unlikely argument. The subject itself, Vegetarian omnivore relations” is interesting enough. However, what is truly unlikely is the way he forms his argument. The writing itself starts like any essay with a story working as a hook but how the author uses this funny but sad story is what sets the tone for the rest of the piece. Taylor Clark, the author, creates an argument that most “normal” people would roll their eyes at and simply ignore. But with his humor and zaniness it seems exciting and fun to read. He creates a new spin to an old argument and natural conflict. Clark appeals to our sense of humanity by showing his. As you read his argument you don’t see a vegetarian blabbing on about how we should all get along but instead we get a view into a man’s mind. A mind that is not only clever but funny. But normally the use of humor in an argument might be considered a crutch or some sort of distraction. In this argument though I would consider it to be crucial for Clark’s point to get across. Instead of simply dismissing complaints or critical views we find ourselves listening and laughing.

                The authors writing style is what makes this a good argument. The use of absurdity and situations help attract attention and utilize it. With arguments the audience’s attention is crucial. The article needs to promote thought, without it the argument cannot be successful. The second half, utilization, is found in situations. In the article the author uses multiple situations to further his arguments and while he incorporates humor into these argument he also uses the opportunity to teach and open up to the audience. But theses theoretical situations aren’t all that helps him utilize attention, Clark also uses appeals. These appeals range from basic decency to appeals our softer side. These appeals make an effort to drive home the argument, but Clark gives them a spin. He makes is appeals almost sad-fully funny, asking so little in a humorous manner. This strategy at appeals helps to make his arguments all the more effective.