Topic > Two Ways of Belonging in America - 889

In America, it is a common misconception that all foreigners are alike; it is believed that they all have similar dreams and that each of them ends up chasing the same jobs. However, this is not the case. Not only do immigrants from different countries have different dreams, but those with a shared background also have different hopes and dreams for the future. This is highlighted in Bharati Mukherjee's essay, “Two Ways of Belonging in America.” He uses several rhetorical strategies to demonstrate that immigrants have the ability to assimilate into American culture, but that they should not be deported if they choose not to conform to said culture. Mukherjee begins her essay with an exposition of her and her sister's story. Use repetition to emphasize the main differences between the two. For example, she states: “I am an American citizen and she is not. I am moved that thousands of residents are finally taking the oath of citizenship. It's not. This line is used to set the subject. She claims to be an immigrant whose dream was to embrace American culture, while her sister does not believe she should be assimilated into it. The use of repetition also appeals to his audience, the Americans, capturing their attention. Many Americans are nationalistic, if not chauvinistic, and believe that America is the greatest country in the world. The idea that others don't feel this way may intrigue them, or potentially offend them, causing them to read on in an attempt to find flaws in your argument. Mukherjee then begins to compare and contrast his sister in a topic-by-topic arrangement. He states: "...he passionately clings to his Indian citizenship and hopes to return home to India when... mid-paper... of the effects of 'non-traditional' immigration, the government officially turns against his immigrant communities…” In this sentence, Mukherjee shows that she too was a victim of the new immigration laws, and that this is why she conformed to the country, to feel a sense of belonging. In this case, l exemplification is used to develop his argument effectively, making the audience feel guilty and even listen to his argument. In his essay, Mukherjee uses several rhetorical devices such as figurative language and exemplification to bring the. audience to believe his argument. He believes in the assimilation of culture, but it should not be forced on anyone. Throughout the essay, he follows a logical thought process that leads the audience to realize this argument and even feel guilty of forced conformity...