social commentary essay

• Scriptwriting

What is Social Commentary — Definition, Examples & Meaning

W hat is social commentary? You may have heard the term thrown around in video essays or seen it pop up in book, music, or film analysis without knowing precisely what it means. In this post, we will define social commentary, examine the different ways it can manifest in cinema, and take a look at a few great examples of films that nail social commentary.

What is Social Commentary

Let’s define social commentary.

Social commentary is a bit of an abstract concept to unravel. If you stumble across any other unfamiliar writing terminology, our ultimate glossary of screenwriting vocabulary can help demystify the jargon.

SOCIAL COMMENTARY DEFINITION

What is social commentary.

Social commentary is an element of a narrative that levels a comment — usually a critique — on societal issues or general society as a whole. Any issue relating to or ingrained aspect of a society can be a target. The presentation of social commentary can range from obvious and on-the-nose to subtle and layered within subtext. This type of commentary can be found in literature, music, television, and cinema. Not all stories contain an element of social commentary. Targets of this commentary and criticism can range from extremely broad, such as the concept of racism, to more specific, precise targets such as Reagan’s handling of the AIDS epidemic.

Social Commentary Characteristics:

• Critical of a society or societal issues
• Not present in every story
• Can appear any type of narrative or artwork

Art with Social Commentary

How to present social commentary.

Social commentary can be implemented in a multitude of ways across different narrative and artistic mediums. There is an interconnected relationship between it and other literary devices such as satire , symbolism , and theme .

Social commentary is most closely linked to literature, but creative minds with messages to say can inject commentary into songs, television shows, paintings, graphic novels, movies, and more.

Here's a fantastic breakdown of how Donald Glover brings commentary into his work across multiple mediums.

How Donald Glover creates social commentary

There are three main avenues for infusing stories with social commentary: through concept, through character, and through actions. Let’s focus on social commentary in cinema and look at the work of a filmmaker who has excelled at it through each of these avenues: George Romero.

Guillermo Del Toro chats with George A. Romero about his career

Considered by many horror fans to be a master of social commentary, the large, great George A. Romero has used all three of the aforementioned avenues to include strong commentary within his groundbreaking zombie series. Find out where Romero’s films land on our ranking of the best zombie films ever made .

Dawn of the Dead is a perfect example of social commentary through concept. By setting a zombie film within a shopping mall, Romero is able to skewer consumerism without the commentary slowing down or getting in the way of the plot of this exciting horror film.

Cinema critiquing consumerism

Day of the Dead makes use of the social-commentary-through-character approach. It does this by using the villainous Captain Rhodes as a representative of the U.S. military and an indictment of their short-sighted violence. His bulldozing effort to impede the vital work of scientists speaks for itself. The fact that he has one of the best horror movie death scenes in history is the icing on the cake. 

The demise of Captain Rhodes

We can look all the way back to the film that birthed the entire zombie genre for an example of social commentary through actions. What is the action in this case? A white posse shooting the black protagonist dead after he has survived the initial zombie onslaught.

The shocking ending of Night of the Living Dead was controversial and groundbreaking upon its release in 1968 and remains powerful to this day.

The ending of Night of the Living Dead

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of this particular commentary is that George A. Romero did not create it intentionally. The character was not written to be black, so the charged racial connotation of the ending only arose after casting Duane Jones in the lead role.

It speaks to the somewhat abstract nature of social commentary that a thought-provoking critique can be implicit within a film’s text without the creator necessarily crafting it that way.

Social Commentary Movies

Social commentary examples.

There are countless examples of great social commentary in cinema across all genres . Even in settings that might not seem conducive to the examination of contemporary societal issues.

Period pieces can sometimes critique current social issues by relating them to the same or similar social issues found in the days of old. The best of this type of temporal juxtaposition often asks audiences to examine how far we’ve come or haven’t come. It also forces us to understand that issues like racism, sexism, homophobia, and other forms of prejudice still plague contemporary society.

Little Women tackles sexism, The Favourite skewers classicism, and both Portrait of a Lady on Fire and The Handmaiden critique homophobia and the male gaze . Though the characters may have lived long before contemporary audiences were born, these films can still hold up a mirror to modern issues.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire and “the Gaze”

The best sci-fi films often use a futuristic setting to comment on contemporary social issues by offering a vision of what could happen if the current issues are left unchecked and continue to exacerbate. This type of social commentary can often serve as a cautionary tale, though the warnings seem to frequently be ignored as life imitates art and vice versa.

Snowpiercer critiques class set aboard a futuristic train. District 9 uses aliens to level a critique against apartheid. And They Live is here to critique consumerism and chew bubblegum, and it’s all out of bubblegum.

The social commentary of They Live  •  Social critique meaning

Let’s run through examples for some of the most common targets of social commentary. Classicism is common subject of critique and is skewered in Parasite , High-Rise , and The Platform amongst many other films including another entry in George A. romero’s Dead series, Land of the Dead .

How Bong Joon-ho critiques class

Issues surrounding the legal system become the fodder of social commentary in films like Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amselem , Just Mercy , and Vera Drake amongst others. Many courtroom dramas might praise the judicial system or use it as a simple framing device for compelling drama. But these films take aim at fundamental flaws in the legal system of their country of origin and level a weighty critique through their characters and dramaturgy.

Just Mercy explores racial bias and injustice in the U.S. legal system by focusing in on a specific trial. Vera Drake critiques the anti-abortion laws of the UK by offering a thorough character study into the life of an abortionist. And Gett: the Trial of Vivian Amsalem takes a critical look at sexism and antiquated divorce laws by tracking the disheartening experiences of one woman as she is denied a divorce by Isreal’s rabbinical legal system.

Interview with the creators of Gett  •  What is Social Commentary

To find films that critique racism through social commentary across different genres, we can look to Get Out , Fruitvale Station , Detroit , or The Last Black Man in San Francisco . And, brilliant films like Blindspotting and Sorry to Bother You take aim at race alongside many other topics in their social commentary covering everything from police brutality and social identity to gentrification and the monopolization of Amazon.

Breaking down a scene from Get Out  •   Subscribe on YouTube

Politics and government are frequently the subjects of social-commentary critique in cinema. The gamut of political social commentary can range from lighter, comedically minded films like Dave , Bulworth , and Election to grounded, true to life stories like Malcolm X , The Iron Lady , Frost/Nixon , and Show Me a Hero . All the way to satires that relentlessly skewer the very notion government and politics like Brazil , Dr. Strangelove , and even Idiocracy . Armando Iannucci has built an impressive catalog of film and television projects revolving around scathing political satire including The Death of Stalin , In the Loop , The Thick of It , and Veep .

Satire is often incorporated into social commentary to poke fun at and critique the most pressing of social issues because, as the old adage goes, we laugh so we don’t cry. 

Learn about the three types of satire every storyteller should know

The Three Types of Satire in Storytelling  •   Subscribe on YouTube

While some war films celebrate or glorify warfare, other films use their subject matter to take a decidedly anti-war stance. Films that take this avenue of social commentary include the likes of The Deer Hunter , Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War , Come and See , Apocalypse Now , and Son of Saul amongst several others.

How Dr. Strangelove skewers nuclear annihilation  •  What is Social Commentary

Even more specific social commentary targets, such as the morality of news media, have been critiqued in a great number of films from Network to Nightcrawler with a dozen others in between. Social commentary might not be present in every film, but many great films contain some element of social commentary if you scratch beneath the surface.

Try injecting social commentary into your next story. And, when you do, use StudioBinder’s screenwriting software to do it. It’s free to get started.

What is Satire?

The next time you’re working on a script, try to inject an element of social commentary into the story. One popular way to infuse a film with social commentary is through the use of biting satire. But, what is satire? Learn about Horatian, Juvenalian, and Menippean satire, up next.

Up Next: Types of Satire →

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What Is Social Commentary? Definition, History & Examples

Social commentary is an art form that holds a mirror up to society, challenging us to reflect on cultural norms and pressing issues.

It’s a powerful tool that artists and creators use to highlight social, political, and cultural experiences.

In this article, we’ll explore how social commentary shapes our understanding of the world around us.

We’ll jump into its various forms and the impact it has on public discourse and individual perspectives.

Social Commentary

What is social commentary.

Social commentary in cinema refers to the use of film to provide insight or critique of the social, cultural, and political aspects of society.

Films that offer social commentary often address topical issues, provoke thought, and encourage viewers to reflect on their own society and beliefs.

This form of filmmaking can be direct or allegorical, using narrative and characters to explore complex themes and to challenge the status quo.

Definition Of Social Commentary

Social commentary is an expressive vehicle through which creators convey their perspectives on societal norms and issues.

It often serves as a mirror – reflecting the cultural intricacies, political climates, and social injustices prevalent in a given time frame.

At its core, social commentary aims to provoke thought and stimulate conversation.

It’s a critical component in art that underscores the interconnectedness of culture and expression.

Through mediums like film, literature, and visual art, social commentary invites audiences to engage with challenging concepts and view the world through a critical lens.

Representative examples can be found in iconic films such as  The Great Dictator , showcasing the absurdities of fascism, or in  To Kill a Mockingbird , which addresses racial injustice.

Similarly, modern artworks that depict the influence of technology on human interaction continue this legacy.

In the realm of film and visual arts, specific characteristics typify works of social commentary –

• A tendency to draw on current events and social trends,
• The use of symbolism to enhance the message,
• Crafting narratives or images that challenge conventional viewpoints.

As filmmakers and advocates of artistic expression, we recognize social commentary as an esoteric diary of humanity’s evolving societal landscape.

Whether overt or nuanced, the potency of an artwork’s message about our society can resonate long after the initial encounter, prompting individuals to ponder the intricacies of their own cultural frameworks.

Understanding this, it’s vital to appreciate the historical context surrounding a work to fully grasp its commentative intent.

As narrative threads or visual components are woven together, the resulting tapestry of social commentary becomes a conversational piece, sparking dialogue and, potentially, inspiring change.

Forms Of Social Commentary

Social commentary permeates various creative mediums, manifesting in ways that engage audiences and provoke reflection.

Throughout history, filmmakers, artists, and writers have utilized their crafts to layer their work with meaning and critique.

Literature And The Written Word

Literature serves as a potent form of social critique, offering insights into the human condition and societal structures.

Classics like  To Kill a Mockingbird  explore themes of racial injustice, while dystopian works such as  1984  provide stark warnings about totalitarian governments.

Visual Arts

Visual arts capture social commentary through compelling imagery and symbolism.

Paintings like Picasso’s  Guernica  visually condemn war, and contemporary installations may address issues from consumerism to environmental degradation.

• Understanding iconography,
• Interpreting thematic elements,
• Acknowledging historical influence.

Film And Television

In film, directors employ a range of techniques to embed social commentary into their work.

The stark realism of  The Bicycle Thief  sheds light on post-war poverty in Italy, while the satire in  Dr.

Strangelove critiques Cold War politics.

• Analyzing narrative context,
• Assessing cinematographic choices,
• Evaluating character development.

Digital Media

With the advent of the digital age, social commentary thrives in new formats like podcasts, blogs, and viral videos.

Digital platforms grant immediate global reach, allowing for rapid dissemination and discourse on contemporary issues.

Theatre And Performance Art

Theatre and performance art offer dynamic spaces for social dialogue.

Stage plays like  A Raisin in the Sun  poignantly discuss race and socioeconomic aspirations, whereas experimental performances might tackle gender norms and identity politics.

Music transcends language barriers, making it an accessible vehicle for social commentary.

Songs such as  Born in the U. S. A. resonate with listeners worldwide, highlighting narratives of war veterans and the working class.

Each artistic outlet provides a unique perspective on societal matters, allowing for a diverse exploration of human experiences and the world around us.

By examining the subtleties in these artworks, we gain deeper insights into the fabric of society and the issues that galvanize community awareness and action.

The Power Of Social Commentary

Social commentary harnesses the arts to mirror society – it’s a conversation between the creator and the audience that extends beyond the confines of the medium.

Whether through the satirical lens of a film like  Dr.

Strangelove or the gritty realism of  The Wire , the influence of these works resonates throughout culture.

They compel us to question and often redefine our understanding of societal norms.

In the realm of film and television, visual storytelling raises awareness about pivotal issues.

Socially charged narratives confront us with the consequences of ignorance and the potential for change.

12 Years a Slave  and  Schindler’s List  have not only become pivotal historical records but also testimonials to humanity’s darkest and brightest sides.

Artistic expressions within social commentary often serve as catalysts for social movements.

Examples Of Social Commentary In Art And Media

Throughout the evolution of art and media, social commentary has become a staple in reflecting and challenging the status quo.

It’s a driving force that captures the cultural zeitgeist and propels discussions on pressing societal issues.

When exploring the realms of film and television, several titles stand as pillars of social critique.

To Kill a Mockingbird  resonates as a powerful exploration of racial injustice, while  The Truman Show  poignantly dissects the impacts of media manipulation and privacy invasion.

Meanwhile,  Parasite  offers a modern take on class struggle and economic disparity, serving to break down social barriers through its universal themes.

The visual arts also wield a significant role in manifesting societal critiques:

• The provocative works of Banksy often confront themes of political authority and class division,
• Kara Walker’s silhouette installations compellingly address the dark history of slavery and racism,
• Ai Weiwei’s installations challenge governmental power dynamics and human rights issues.

In the vast expanse of digital media, social commentary evolves with the times.

Websites, blogs, and social platforms become vessels for viral campaigns promoting change, such as #MeToo or #BlackLivesMatter.

These movements showcase the potency of digital communities in influencing mainstream discourse and policy.

The influence extends into the realm of music where artists weave narratives of personal and social consciousness into their lyrics.

From Bob Dylan’s anthems of the ’60s counterculture to Kendrick Lamar’s poignant verses on racial inequality, music proves to be an accessible and emotive conductor of social commentary.

By engaging with art and media steeped in social commentary, we actively participate in a global conversation, recognizing the gravity of the issues at hand and considering the numerous perspectives presented to us.

Through this ongoing engagement, we not only reflect on the world around us but also imagine the potential for a brighter, more just future.

The Impact Of Social Commentary On Public Discourse

Social commentary weaves itself into the fabric of public conversation, often influencing perspectives and igniting debate.

Through films like The Great Dictator and 12 Years a Slave, viewers are confronted with historical injustices that echo into modern sensibilities.

These cinematic experiences transcend mere storytelling; they challenge audiences to reflect on contemporary issues through the lens of the past.

Within the realm of literature and film, characters and narratives become proxies for larger societal conversations.

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird presents themes of racial inequality, serving as a catalyst for discussions on civil rights.

Similarly, the adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale has sparked widespread discourse on gender roles and personal autonomy in a rapidly changing social landscape.

Visual artists, through their powerful imagery, have the ability to encapsulate complex ideas in a single moment – prompting public introspection and discourse.

Consider the poignant works of Kara Walker, whose silhouettes confront the brutal history of American slavery and its lingering effects.

Ai Weiwei’s installations, on the other hand, boldly critique government policies and social injustices, inspiring global conversations on freedom of expression and human rights.

• Films often serve as both a mirror and a window: – A mirror reflecting society’s current state – A window offering a glimpse into the lives and struggles of others.

By fostering empathy and understanding, social commentary in art and media has a unique power to shape public discourse.

It’s not about dictating specific trains of thought but rather providing a starting point from which meaningful dialogue can emerge.

Each work, whether it be on canvas or screen, contributes to a nuanced tapestry of voices and perspectives, pushing us to question and, eventually, evolve our collective worldview.

What Is Social Commentary – Wrap Up

We’ve seen how social commentary weaves through the fabric of our culture, challenging us to reflect and act.

It’s a powerful tool that artists and creators use to mirror society and provoke thought.

As we engage with these works, we’re not just passive observers; we’re participants in a larger conversation about who we are and who we aspire to be.

Let’s keep this dialogue open and vibrant, recognizing that each piece of social commentary adds a valuable layer to our understanding of the human experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is social commentary in the context of the article.

Social commentary refers to the act of using creative works to express perspectives on societal norms and issues, aiming to shape public discourse and foster dialogue.

What Forms Of Social Commentary Are Discussed In The Article?

The article discusses various forms such as literature, visual arts, film and television, digital media, theatre, performance art, and music.

Can You Provide Examples Of Social Commentary In Art And Media?

Examples include the films “The Great Dictator” and “12 Years a Slave,” and the works of artists like Kara Walker and Ai Weiwei.

Why Is Social Commentary Important In Art And Media?

Social commentary is important because it has the power to foster empathy, understanding, and provide a starting point for meaningful dialogue on societal issues.

How Does Social Commentary Contribute To Public Discourse?

It contributes by creating a nuanced tapestry of voices and perspectives that encourage audiences to question and evolve their collective worldview.

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• How to Write a Social Commentary Essay

This guide was written by  https://writemyessay.ca

At one time you feel stressed up especially when your tutor gives out an assignment on writing commentary essay. Writing commentary essays sometimes becomes a challenge. Well, you should be excited as such articles enable students to improve their skills to analyze other person’s work constructively. Social commentary essays are similar to both persuasive and editorial pieces. Besides, such essays focus on personal experiences and observations in the society.  Just like the standard essays, commentary essay has an introduction, body and a conclusion. This article, henceforth elaborates on how to write a commentary essay.

How to write an introduction with thesis statement

When writing an introduction paragraph of a social commentary essay, the students should set the context by giving a summary of activities leading up to the event as well as an overview of what occurs in the event or passage. Besides, it is essential to identify the narrator, his tone and pieces of evidence of the attitude of the narrator concerning the subject. Separately, writers should explain the central theme of the event or passage and its importance. Such elaborate will create the thesis statement that gives the topic or idea of the essay. Below is an example of the introduction of a social commentary essay.

Impacts of Social Media in Our Society

The use of social network continues to evolve in the current society. The current dotcom generation appreciates the advantages of internet usage such as communication, streaming of television shows, sending emails as well as video conferencing among others. In fact, such activities are easily accessible through Smartphones, IPads, laptops, and palmtops. Even though social media as an aspect of technology helps humankind, it has brought much of negative impacts that outweigh its advantages.

How to write the body paragraphs

The body paragraphs of a social commentary essay constitute three sections that commence from the second paragraph to the fourth paragraph. The first paragraph of the body explains the central point on social commentary topic. The main point should be the first paragraph of the body and should be a statement. In the subsequent sentences, writers should elaborate on the point indicating examples and evidence to support the first point.  Besides, the students should explain how such examples related to the main point and the thesis statement. Moreover, students should link the last sentence with the point and tie it to the thesis statement.

Separately, the following paragraphs should contain different points on the topic and the points should be tied to the thesis statement and should have supporting examples and evidence. Therefore, it is essential for the students to follow the same procedures in paragraph two in the subsequent paragraphs of the body. However, the proceeding paragraphs should contain different points that elaborate the topic of the essay. Example of a body is as follows;

When it comes to socialization people, embrace various social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram among others. In as much as the media platforms enhance communication between people, a lot of disruptions are ordinary especially among the family members. Many people especially the youths are glued to such social media platforms chatting and share information with friends online. However, the young generation does not give much attention to their siblings and parents, or other family members hence lead to family breakups among other challenges. Besides, most of the people who engage in social media seldom take meals together as majority find themselves busy on social media platforms. Such behaviors deteriorate family values and morals as technology continues to bring a variety of activities on social media platforms.

Secondly, the availability of social media platforms not only cause disorientation in the families but also causes severe problems to individual users. Many people become addicted to the social media to the extent of missing essential activities for body maintenance such as exercise, eating as well as bathing. The long-term of such events is deteriorating health conditions of the body such as overweight, eye problems, backaches and brain strains among others. Besides, the gadgets such as computers and Smartphones among others consume a lot of electrical energy which is dangerous to the environment which also impacts to the global warming among others.

Even though social media is responsible for the above highlighted adverse effects on families and individuals, the social media platform also contributes positively to our lives. For example, we are always in touch with friends and other relatives who live far away from us. Furthermore, the social media enhances virtual management of different enterprises at international levels. Such management systems are useful due to Skype and video conferencing, VIBER and WhatsApp. Such wonders are challenging to pass unmentioned as they have significantly transformed our lives hence we should appreciate the current social media platforms.

How to write a conclusion

When writing conclusions of social commentary essays, students should restate the thesis statement in different words and elaborate on the accomplishment of the composition. Besides, it is important to expound on the thesis to give a response in a personal, insightful and sincere fashion about the main idea. Writers should sound conclusive when wrapping up the work. An example of conclusion is as follows;

In conclusion, social media platforms are responsible for the varied problems that we face in the society such as deteriorating relationships with families and health problems among others. However, the same social media platforms have positively contributed to our community in the form of improved communication, streaming of videos and televisions as well as sending emails to others. Personally, I think that social media is essential to our lives. However, too much possession of such privileges results in more harm than good in our society that negatively affects our social relationships.

Sample Outline of the Social Commentary Essay

Topic: Impacts of Social Media in Our Society

Introduction

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Brief elaboration of social media

Advantages of social media platforms

Thesis statement: Social media as an aspect of technology for humankind has damaged many families, brought health challenges and environmental degradation.

Paragraph 2: People use social media for socialization.

Disruptions due to communication such as family breakups

Poor eating habits

Paragraph 3: Social media platforms result in addiction

People miss exercise, become overweight, develop eye problems and brain strains

Paragraph 4:  Positive impacts of social media

Keeping in touch with family members and friends

Enhance virtual management

Reiterate thesis statement

Expound on the effects of social media platforms

Give personal view regarding social media platforms

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From Summary to Insight: A Guide to Writing Commentary Essays with Depth

Writing an essay can be daunting, let alone if you’re also providing commentary on it. But the reward of a job well done is worth the effort when you’re finished!

It has been noted that essays with thoughtful commentaries have a higher chance of being accepted for publication. So I’m here to help make it clear that essay writers need to understand the power of commentary and how to incorporate it into their work.

In this article, I’ll share my experience as a writer and provide insight on how to make your voice heard in an essay by using effective commentary. By following my advice, you’ll be able to craft a piece that stands out from the crowd and makes your thoughts shine through!

What Is Commentary In An Essay?

Over the course of your writing, you may have heard of the term ‘commentary’ in relation to essay writing. But what does it mean?

Simply put, commentary is analysis. It’s when you take a text and try to identify the deeper implications at play. In literary texts this could be symbolism, metaphors or dual meanings; with non-fiction texts it could include examining how an author makes use of evidence and arguments to support their position.

Writing a commentary essay requires close reading skills and the ability to interpret a wide range of information. It also requires you to think critically about how ideas are connected and draw conclusions about why certain elements are included in the text.

Commentary is an essential part of any essay because it allows your reader – who may not be as familiar with the text as you – to understand why you have drawn certain conclusions based on your interpretation.

It’s like giving them a guided tour through your thoughts and ideas so they can explore what makes your argument unique and interesting. Commentary also enables you to make connections between different aspects of the text that might not be obvious on first glance, helping bring out its significance even further.

By using commentary effectively, you can write an engaging essay that really gets your point across clearly.

The Significance Of Commentary In Essay Writing

Writing commentary in an essay can be a powerful tool for communicating ideas and arguments. It is essential to engage in critical thinking, interpretation, and analysis when writing commentary. Writing effective commentary requires the ability to construct a well-developed argument that supports the main point of the essay.

Here are 4 key elements of effective commentary:

• A clear thesis statement
• Relevant evidence that supports the argument
• Interpretation and analysis of the evidence
• A conclusion that summarizes the argument

Commentaries should be written with an engaging style that encourages readers to think critically about the topic at hand. Good literary commentary should be accessible, yet thought-provoking; it should both inform and entertain the audience. Additionally, it should challenge preconceived notions about a subject and provide an insightful perspective on why something matters or how it affects our lives.

In order to write effectively, one must first understand their audience and what they hope to communicate through their words. With this knowledge in mind, one can craft a compelling commentary that offers fresh insight into any given topic.

Transitioning seamlessly into the next section…

Key Elements Of Effective Commentary

Like the rising sun that signals a new day, effective commentary can offer a fresh perspective to an essay. With the right words and emphasis, it can engage readers in an entirely new way and bring them closer to understanding your argument.

Like a shimmering beacon of light, it has the power to grab their attention and draw them into your ideas.

Commentary does more than just summarize facts or provide background information – it also evaluates, interprets, and analyses information.

It’s an opportunity for you to delve into the heart of what you’re writing about, offering insight into its significance and exploring potential implications. By taking this approach, you can evaluate the importance of each point and develop your thesis with greater clarity.

Through thoughtful commentary, you can make connections between ideas that your readers may not have previously considered and help them reach their own conclusions about your argument.

Strategies For Writing Potent Commentary In Essays

Writing potent commentary in essays is essential to making a successful argument and gaining the reader’s interest. Here are four strategies that can help you write a good essay commentary:

Develop a strong thesis statement

A thesis statement serves as the core of your essay, and it should be explicit, engaging and supportable by evidence. It should also be concise so that readers can understand your main message immediately.

Understand the topic better

Spend some time researching the topic before you start writing to ensure you have a thorough understanding of it. This will give your commentary more depth and clarity.

Body And Paragraphs Organized

Make sure your body paragraphs are organized logically and clearly explain how your points relate to the overall theme or argument of your essay.

Each paragraph should have a single purpose, and make sure that all sentences within each paragraph work together to support that purpose.

Use literary analysis

When writing your commentary you can draw on elements like tone, imagery, diction, and syntax to make your argument more persuasive and compelling for readers. This will also help them better understand what you’re trying to communicate in your essay.

By incorporating these strategies into your essay writing process, you can create powerful commentary that effectively supports your argument and engages readers with meaningful insight into the text or topic at hand. With these tips in mind, let’s look at how to use quotations and examples in commentary to further enrich our arguments!

The Use Of Quotations And Examples In Commentary

Now that we’ve discussed strategies for writing powerful commentary in essays, let’s explore the use of quotations and examples when constructing these sentences.

Quotations and examples are essential for making strong commentary sentences that support an argument or analysis. When used correctly, they can be a great way to illustrate a point and add interest and texture to your argument.

When including a quotation in your commentary, it is important to make sure it is properly attributed. You should include both the author’s name and the source from which the quote was taken. This not only strengthens your argument by adding credibility, but it also shows you have done your research.

Examples are also effective for proving a point or introducing a new concept. They help to break up longer paragraphs, explain difficult concepts in more detail, and provide evidence or substantiation for an idea or opinion. When using examples in commentary sentences, it is important that they are relevant to the topic at hand and accurately represent what you are attempting to say in your essay.

With this information in mind, let’s move on to examining types of commentary in essays; comprehending the contrasts.

Types Of Commentary In Essays: Comprehending The Contrasts

As a student writing a commentary essay, it is important to understand the differences between analyzing, summarizing, and evaluating. To help comprehend these contrasts, let’s take a look at four main points:

1.      Analyzing – Looking closely at something and breaking it down into smaller parts to better understand it.

2.      Summarizing – Taking the information from a larger group of data and boiling it down into its key elements.

3.      Relating – Exploring how two or more ideas are connected and how they affect each other.

4.      Evaluating – Examining different aspects of an issue or argument and determining its worth or value by expressing an opinion about it.

Using these four points as a framework for writing your commentary essays can help you to be more effective in your analysis, summary and evaluation of any given topic.

Furthermore, this knowledge will also serve you well when crafting strategies for writing literary essays that contain thoughtful commentary elements.

With this in mind, let us now turn our attention to creating such strategies…

Strategies For Writing Commentary In Literary Essays

Having discussed the differences between types of commentary, let’s now turn to strategies for writing effective commentary in literary essays.

When it comes to providing commentary, it is important to understand that you are making a statement about something; whether it be an interpretation or opinion, you need to make a clear statement.

You should also comment on any phrases or passages that have stood out and explain why they are significant.

It is also important to identify the underlying message of the text. This means going beyond surface-level analysis and delving into the deeper meaning of the work.

To do this, think about what is not being said as much as what is being said.

Make sure your comments add depth to your analysis and provide new insights for your readers.

Finally, take care when constructing your sentences so that your points come across clearly and convincingly.

Writing Commentary For Convincing Essays

I’m sure you’re excited to finally get started on writing your commentary for a convincing essay! It can be intimidating to write about something without knowing what type of essay you’re working on. But if you take the time to read through the assignment and passage, you’ll have a much better idea of what you need to write.

When it comes to writing your commentary, try not to worry too much about “sounding smart” or “having all the right answers.” Instead, focus on writing like yourself—in your own voice, with your own ideas. The more authentic and engaging your writing is, the more persuasive it will be to readers.

So don’t be afraid to express yourself—you may just surprise yourself with how creative and interesting your thoughts can be! With that said, let’s move on to creating commentary that supports your thesis statement.

Creating Commentary That Supports Your Thesis Statement

As the saying goes, hindsight is 20/20. Looking back now, it’s clear that writing an effective commentary for a convincing essay requires some finesse and insight.

When starting to write, it’s important to have a good understanding of the topic you are discussing and to provide enough context for your audience to understand what you are discussing. Additionally, it helps to have an understanding of opposing viewpoints before you start writing so that you can avoid falling into common traps.

To create commentary that supports your thesis statement effectively, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:

1.      Make sure your argument is sound and won’t be easily refuted by an opposing point of view.

2.      Avoid introducing new evidence or topics in your commentary; instead focus on the evidence already presented in the essay body.

3.      Take the time to help explain why certain evidence matters and why readers should care about it.

The goal of commentary is not just to express an opinion but also provide meaningful analysis that will help prove or disprove a point of view. By being mindful of these considerations when writing, it is possible to create effective commentary that will help readers better understand your argument and its implications.

Common Mistakes To Avoid In Commentary Writing

I think one of the biggest mistakes I can make when writing a commentary essay is to overgeneralize my points. It’s important to provide specific examples and evidence to back up my opinion and avoid making sweeping conclusions.

Additionally, when writing a commentary essay, it’s also easy to forget to include evidence to support my argument. Making sure to include evidence will make my piece of writing much more convincing and credible.

Avoiding Overgeneralization

When writing a commentary essay, it’s important to avoid overgeneralizing your topic.

Sure, it may be tempting to make sweeping statements about the issue at hand, but this won’t do justice to your argument.

Instead, try to focus on concrete evidence and facts that back up your opinion.

For example, include statistics or subjective accounts from experts in the field.

This will ensure that you don’t come off as too biased or uninformed in your commentary.

By avoiding overgeneralization and being specific in your evidence, you can present a much more convincing argument and captivate readers with innovation.

Remember: always strive for accuracy when building an argument!

Lack Of Evidence

When it comes to commentary writing, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not having enough evidence to back up their argument. Without any supporting evidence, your argument can easily be dismissed as biased and uninformed.

This is especially true when discussing contentious topics like politics or religion. It’s important to remember that you’re usually assigned a commentary essay for a reason—so make sure you have enough facts and figures to give your readers an informed opinion. Otherwise, you may struggle to convince them of your point of view.

To make sure your argument stands out from the crowd, research extensively and use concrete evidence whenever possible. This will show that you’ve put in the effort and will help ensure a more innovative outcome for your audience.

Tips For Revising And Editing Commentary

Revising and editing your commentary is an important step in writing an essay. It helps to ensure that you are conveying the most accurate and persuasive message.

To do this, it’s important to read through your writing again and summarize any points that you noticed while reading. This will allow you to make sure that each point is clear and concise. As students need to be able to write effectively, it is also important to pay close attention to the language used throughout the essay.

Looking for words that could be replaced with more precise ones or focusing on certain aspects of literature can help bring life to a paper.

It is also essential to check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and other errors before submitting the essay. Making sure all of these elements are correct can help enhance the paper’s overall quality.

Additionally, as you review your work, look for any areas where clarification may be necessary. Taking a second look at what you wrote will help ensure that the reader fully understands all of your points and implications.

By following these tips when revising and editing commentary in an essay, readers can gain a clearer understanding of the author’s intended message.

Examples Of Strong And Poor Commentary In Essays

A necessary part of writing an essay is the commentary. It’s the all-important part that allows for a deeper understanding of what is being written and allows the reader to get a fuller picture of the writer’s thoughts.

Unfortunately, not everyone understands the need to understand commentary. Many writers think they can simply paraphrase their sources without paying attention to how they are using irony or antithesis, missing out on valuable opportunities to add depth and complexity to their work.

Commentary should be used to engage readers in a way that speaks directly to their subconscious desire for innovation. It should be written in a personal tone of voice with contractions and an engaging style that will grab readers’ attention and make them want more.

If done correctly, it can bring new life and insight into an essay, allowing it to stand out from the rest.

Paragraph Construction With Commentary

In this section, I’m going to be talking about paragraph construction with commentary. As part of writing an essay, it is important to think about how you are going to use literary elements and techniques to convey your main idea or argument. I was always taught by my instructor that the way you structure your paragraphs can really make a difference in how effective your message is.

So, let’s take a look at some tips for constructing well-crafted paragraphs that provide an engaging commentary.

First of all, try not to write too long of a sentence as this can lead to confusion for the reader.

Secondly, make sure that each paragraph has one clear point that ties back into the main argument or idea you are trying to convey in your essay.

Finally, use transition words and phrases as needed throughout the essay so that readers can easily follow along with your discussion.

All these steps help ensure that readers understand and appreciate what you have written in your essay. With these tips in mind, let’s move on to discussing transition words and phrases for commentary.

Transition Words And Phrases For Commentary

In the world of higher education, commentary is a powerful tool that can bring literature to life in a way that no other piece can. It’s almost magical how one can take an otherwise mundane poem and turn it into something extraordinary with just a few words. Commentary has the ability to transform isolation into coherence in ways that are simply astounding!

Here is a 4-point list for successful commentary:

1.      Read the text multiple times before writing any comments.

2.      Take notes on what stands out most to you.

3.      Use concrete examples from the text to better illustrate your points.

4.      Be sure to engage with your audience in a way that encourages them to think more deeply about the subject matter at hand.

Commentary is an invaluable skill for anyone looking to make their mark on a piece of literature, so use it wisely and always strive for excellence! With this knowledge, we can now move on to exploring how to write a conclusion with commentary – do’s and don’ts included!

Writing A Conclusion With Commentary: Do’s And Don’ts

Now that you know the transition words and phrases for commentary, it’s time to learn how to write a conclusion with commentary. It can seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

One of the most important things to remember is not to rely too heavily on your homework. Spending too much time memorizing facts and figures won’t help you in the long run when it comes to showcasing your opinion. Therefore, try to focus on critical thinking skills instead of wasting time studying for hours on end.

While two sentences are usually enough for a conclusion, make sure that each one packs a punch and is full of insight and analysis. Hone your skills by getting feedback from others so you can refine your writing and develop a style that resonates with any reader.

This can help ensure that your concluding remarks leave an impactful impression on those who read them.

Overall, effective commentary is essential for producing a successful essay.

Writing commentary allows you to demonstrate your understanding and personal thoughts on the topic and can really amplify your argument.

By incorporating examples, quotations, and other evidence into your commentary, you are able to bring life to your writing in a manner that will make it stand out from the crowd.

As an age-old proverb says, “A picture paints a thousand words”; similarly, strong commentary paints an even grander picture of your argument.

With these tips in mind, I look forward to seeing you all write some truly standout essays!

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What Is a Commentary in an Essay | Writing Guide & Examples

• Icon Calendar 18 May 2024

When people need to express their thoughts or ideas about something, they need guidelines on how to write a commentary essay. This article begins by defining what is a commentary essay, its meaning, and outlining its basic structure. Some insights students can learn are that introductions should have hooks, background information, and thesis statements. Body paragraphs of a commentary essay should have topic sentences; evidence, mainly quotes; comments after the evidence; and transitions. The conclusion part should restate the thesis and summarize the main ideas. This guideline also gives a sample outline template, possible topics, and a practical example of a commentary essay. Lastly, the article teaches students 10 dos and 10 don’ts and 20 tips for writing a high-standard commentary essay.

How to Write an Outstanding Commentary Essay & Examples

Reading is an academic exercise that develops a person’s mental faculties of intellect, memory, reason, intuition, perception, and imagination. These faculties develop when people utilize what they have acquired through reading to write different types of essays , including reports and research papers. Therefore, reading and writing are related because they both induce intellectual development. This guideline on how to write a commentary in an essay teaches students and anyone passionate about writing how to create a good argumentative position that meets the quality standards for intellectual discourse and publication. The guideline also offers vital insights, including the definition of what is a commentary essay, its basic essay structure, different types, possible essay topics, 10 dos and 10 don’ts, and 20 tips for producing a high-standard essay. Therefore, reading this guideline is beneficial to students and others who may, from time to time, write a commentary in an essay to communicate ideas to specific audiences.

Definition of What Is a Commentary in an Essay and Its Meaning

From a definition, a commentary is a descriptive account of an event, an expression of opinions about a political, economic, social, or cultural issue, or elucidating a point or topic of public interest. From this perspective, a commentary essay is a document that students write to express opinions about an issue or topic through a descriptive expression and explanation of ideas. In this respect, a commentary essay differs from other types of papers, including an argumentative essay, a personal narrative, a cause and effect essay, compare and contrast essay, or a problem and solution essay, as well as a report and a research paper, because it means expressing the writer’s perspective concerning an issue or topic. Commentaries are products of a critical analysis of societal problems across political, economic, social, and cultural dimensions. When writing a commentary essay, students should analyze and interpret the source under discussion, such as a text, film, article, video, advertisement, event, object, subject, book, poem, speech, presentation, literary work, novel, sculpture, or image, among others, using a basic sandwich rule: giving a commentary after each quote or citation.

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Basic Structure of a Commentary Essay

Like other texts, a commentary paper has a basic essay structure that dictates how writers should organize their content. This structure has three components: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The introduction is where writers introduce their assigned topics using a hook, context, and an argumentative thesis statement. Although this type of commentary essay is not an argumentative essay, an argumentative thesis indicates the writer’s perspective on the issue, which can be contentious in the eyes of readers. The body of a commentary essay is where authors construct a defense of their perspective through body paragraphs; each body paragraph should have a topic sentence that establishes a claim; supporting evidence, like quotes, data, or examples; a commentary that analyzes and explains information cited in an essay; and a concluding sentence with a transition to create a logical connection to the next paragraph. In turn, the conclusion restates the thesis and makes a final remark.

5 Main Types of Commentary

Because a commentary in an essay expresses the writer’s perspective about an issue, idea, or topic, it is evident in the body section of a commentary essay, where people describe their perspectives every time they provide evidence. In this respect, there are different types of commentary. The first one is an opinion essay where writers analyze evidence, such as a quote, text, or image, and state their stands with their critics. The second type of a commentary essay is an interpretation, where authors explain a complex concept to enhance the reader’s understanding. The third type is character or subject’s feelings, where students depict the emotional state of the person they have described in a commentary sentence. The fourth type of commentary essay is a personal reaction, where people communicate their stances on an issue, while the fifth type is an evaluation, where writers evaluate a section and gives a critical judgment.

Alternative Commentary Types and Examples

Besides the types of commentary above, students may write alternative commentary types when their essay is part of a bigger writing project, such as a systematic exposition of an idea, theme, or topic. Students must know the unique features of each type, including when to use it, what to focus on, and how to organize a commentary essay’s content.

1️⃣ Close, Direct Analysis of Passages

An example of an alternative commentary is a close, direct analysis of robust passages from the source, such as an article, film, poem, literary work, book, or novel. In this respect, they are standard in bigger writing projects, like expositions or being part of a critic’s work. Students adopt this type of commentary when they have to read a passage in a text or pick a speech in a movie and write a film analysis essay that expresses the writer’s perspective on the central issues, ideas, or concepts. The following example of a commentary essay demonstrates a close, direct examination of the first stanza of the poem “Night Wind” by Christopher Dewdney:

Tonight the wind blows through

all the worlds I have known and

through all the lives I have led.

The wind blows in the trees,

deeper into each.

The wind blows forever,

strains like something

endlessly departing.

Restless, impatient,

it races without burden.

Example of a Commentary on Celebration of Nature in the First Stanza of Christopher Dewdney’s Poem “Night Wind”

Christopher Dewdney’s 1984 poem “Night Wind” celebrates nature by depicting the night wind as a permanent, free expression of nature. The poet describes the wind on a particular night in the first stanza. By using a first-person perspective in the first three lines, Dewdney depicts himself as an observer. This writing style expresses a personal dialogue in which the poet directly relates his senses, experiences, and impressions. Dewdney opens the poem with the words: “Tonight the wind blows through / all the worlds I have known and / through all the lives I have led.” In this passage, the author expresses to the reader how the unity of the wind in whatever time or place leaves a lasting impression on him. Ideally, he views the wind as an omnipresent force but also regards it as very transient and fleeting. The words “endlessly departing” indicate to the reader the sense that the wind encompasses the entire continuum of the poet’s existence. Nonetheless, it is always in a rush to be at another location. The reader gets the impression that wind is a celebration of nature when Dewdney mentions its interactions with nature: “The wind blows in the trees, deeper into each.” This statement induces an imagination of trees fighting against a pervasive wind. The poet ends the stanza by personifying the wind, and he assigns it human qualities of restlessness, impatience, and playfulness. In this respect, the first stanza uses the wind as a reason to celebrate nature.

2️⃣ Commentary Annotations

Annotations are another type of alternative commentary where writers use a short claim on a source, like a text, film, or image. This kind of commentary essay also looks like an annotated bibliography. Typically, writers adopt annotations when they need to explain complex words, phrases, or concepts to readers; give a historical or cultural context of the topic; support or challenge the author’s arguments in an essay; expose literary devices, like contrast, irony, or sarcasm, or rhetorical devices, like ethos, pathos, and logos; provide a personal interpretation of the text under analysis. Therefore, annotations aim to enhance the reader’s understanding of a short passage from a source. Below are three examples of annotations of complex content in writing a commentary essay for Christopher Dewdney’s Poem “Night Wind.”

3 Examples of a Commentary With Annotations

➖ “The night wind is an empire / in exodus, a deliverance / beside the dark shape of trees.”

This statement is in lines 13-15 of Dewdney’s poem, where the poet alludes to a biblical concept, exodus, to express the wind’s freedom. By stating that the wind is “… in exodus, a deliverance…,” Dewdney makes the reader compare the wind to the incident in the book of Exodus in the Bible where Moses leads the children of Israel, God’s chosen people, to Canaan, the promised land, after freeing a life of bondage in Egypt. In this respect, lines 13-15 confirm that the wind is free and expresses nature’s freedom.

➖ “The wind takes / me in its giddy rush and / gathers me into a storm of longing, / rising on wings of darkness.”

In this statement in lines 18-21, the phrase “wings of darkness” emphasizes the wind’s freedom and mystery. The poet contextualizes the wind as an unpredictable force that can take a person anywhere .

➖ “Along oceans and rivers, / the gale’s mysterious, unspoken imperative / is a joyous delirium with / nothing at its end.”

This passage in lines 36-39 expresses Dewdney’s excitement in not knowing where the wind may take him. It suggests that it does not matter where the wind takes him because he is truly free. In essence, the statement makes the reader imagine the wind as a mystery because it can take one anywhere, emphasizing the theme of freedom.

3️⃣ Data Commentary

Data commentary is another type of alternative essay commentary where writers summarize a study by analyzing critical information that helps readers have a sneak peek of the project. The features students should incorporate in a commentary essay include visual illustrations, like charts, diagrams, graphs, and tables, to capture statistical data, allowing readers to compare them easily. In this respect, data commentary reflects the results section of a research paper because that is where scholars use visual illustrations to report statistical data. Another feature is a conclusion summarizing a commentary essay by reiterating the key points and expressing the writer’s final remark, meaning the main perspective on the topic. Lastly, people must provide a reference page listing credible sources they consulted to write data commentaries, such as reports and research articles. Below is an example of data commentary.

Example of Data Commentary

Table 3 shows respondents’ responses to statements about the barriers to exercise prescription for people with mental illness. Those who agreed that patients’ mental health denies them the opportunity to exercise was 58%, while those who agreed that obtaining an injury during exercise is a concern was 45%. There was an overwhelming response by 87% of the respondents who agreed that exercise is beneficial and were interested in prescribing it for patients with mental health problems. However, only 13% agreed that prescribing exercise falls outside their job description. Nonetheless, 16% stated that they did not know how to prescribe exercise for the population. Overall, 71% approved that exercise professionals are best suited to prescribe exercise for people in the population.

Possible Uses of Block Quotations for Writing a Good Commentary Essay

When writing a commentary essay, students can use block quotations to organize comments. However, this feature is suitable mainly for extensive passages. In a simple definition, a block quote is a text that captures direct quotations longer than 40 words, which the writer offsets from the main text and does not include quotation marks. The text appears on a new line with a 0.5 inches indentation or five to seven spaces. Using single space for a block quote is standard, even in an essay requiring double spacing. Hence, students must know how to format block quotes in APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian referencing styles when writing a commentary essay.

📕 APA Format

There are two ways in which students can write block quotes in the APA style when organizing their commentary essays.

I. The first block captures the author’s name before the quote:

In their tabulation of results, Vancampfort et al. (2019) showed:

Almost 75% of the respondents indicated that they would “definitely” attend further training for exercise prescriptions for people with mental illness, in particular, related to how to assess patients and how to motivate them towards an active lifestyle. More than seventy percent of the participants also reported that exercise to people with mental illness is actually best delivered by an exercise professional, although only one respondent referred patients to such an exercise professional (p. 2178).

“[Your comments on a block quote starts here]”

II. Alternatively, a block quote can have the author’s surname at the end:

According to the findings:

Almost 75% of the respondents indicated that they would “definitely” attend further training for exercise prescriptions for people with mental illness, in particular, related to how to assess patients and how to motivate them towards an active lifestyle. More than seventy percent of the participants also reported that exercise to people with mental illness is actually best delivered by an exercise professional, although only one respondent referred patients to such an exercise professional (Vancampfort et al., 2019, p. 2178).

📕 MLA Format

Similarly, the MLA style has two ways of formatting a block quote when organizing commentary essays.

I. Having the surname of the author preceding a block quote in an essay:

The results by Vancampfort et al. indicate:

Almost 75% of the respondents indicated that they would “definitely” attend further training for exercise prescriptions for people with mental illness, in particular, related to how to assess patients and how to motivate them towards an active lifestyle. More than seventy percent of the participants also reported that exercise to people with mental illness is actually best delivered by an exercise professional, although only one respondent referred patients to such an exercise professional (2178).

II. Having the author’s surname at the end of the quote:

Almost 75% of the respondents indicated that they would “definitely” attend further training for exercise prescriptions for people with mental illness, in particular, related to how to assess patients and how to motivate them towards an active lifestyle. More than seventy percent of the participants also reported that exercise to people with mental illness is actually best delivered by an exercise professional, although only one respondent referred patients to such an exercise professional (Vancampfort et al. 2178).

📕 Harvard Format

The Harvard style also has two ways of formatting a block quote when organizing commentary essays.

I. Indicating the author’s surname before a block quote in an essay:

In their findings, Vancampfort et al. (2019) established that:

II. Citing the author’s surname at the end of a block quote:

Almost 75% of the respondents indicated that they would “definitely” attend further training for exercise prescriptions for people with mental illness, in particular, related to how to assess patients and how to motivate them towards an active lifestyle. More than seventy percent of the participants also reported that exercise to people with mental illness is actually best delivered by an exercise professional, although only one respondent referred patients to such an exercise professional (Vancampfort et al. 2019, p. 2178).

📕 Chicago/Turabian Format

The Chicago/Turabian style also has two ways of formatting a block quote when organizing commentary essays.

I. Mentioning the author’s surname before a block quote in an essay:

According to Vancampfort et al.:

Almost 75% of the respondents indicated that they would “definitely” attend further training for exercise prescriptions for people with mental illness, in particular, related to how to assess patients and how to motivate them towards an active lifestyle. More than seventy percent of the participants also reported that exercise to people with mental illness is actually best delivered by an exercise professional, although only one respondent referred patients to such an exercise professional (this passage must be formatted as a footnote). 1

II. Showing the author’s surname in a footnote:

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Key Features of Formatting Block Quotes When Writing a Commentary Essay

Looking at the examples of writing a commentary in an essay above, there are some similarities and differences in formatting block quotes. APA and Harvard are similar because they show the research article’s publication year and the page number of the information the writer cites in their commentary essay. The main difference is the arrangement of these details, including the place of putting comas. On the other hand, the MLA and Chicago/Turabian styles are similar in that they do not show the research article’s publication year. The main difference is that the Chicago/Turabian style uses footnotes to show the author(s) and all the bibliography details at the commentary essay’s end. The MLA style shows only the author’s surname and the page number in the text. In turn, people begin writing their commentaries in the following line after a block quote as a standard paragraph in all the formats.

Easy Sample Topics for Writing a Great Commentary Essay

Students should choose easy essay topics when writing a commentary essay to avoid complicating their tasks. Ideally, a specific topic should indicate a particular source document one is commenting on, such as a text, film, or image. The standard practice is that instructors define essay topics or commemorative speech topics students should write about. However, people can choose other themes they are comfortable with if such instructions do not exist for writing a commentary essay. The best approach to choosing an easy topic is to engage with course content and read widely to generate and incubate ideas. When the time for writing a commentary essay comes, one finds it easy to construct arguments fitting the task. The following are possible commentary essay topics because they suggest analyzing and examining a source from the writer’s perspective.

• In Memory of Amelia Earhart: Sky’s Fearless Lady
• The Central Themes in Harper Lee’s novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• “The Great Gatsby” Through Contemporary Lens
• The Rhetorical Stance in Jessica Grose’s “Cleaning: The Final Feminist Frontier”
• The Message in Robert Frost’s Poem “The Road Not Taken”
• Maya Angelou’s Magic in “And Still I Rise”
• Demystifying Mental Disorders Through the Film “Black Swan (2010)”
• The Essence of Margaret Atwood’s “Negotiating With the Dead: A Writer on Writing”

Sample Outline Template for Writing a Commentary Essay

• Title of a commentary essay must be precise to an assigned topic.
• Title must be short, clear, and easily understandable.
• Title must be interesting, catchy, and with relevant keywords.

I. Introduction Section of a Commentary Essay

• Essay introduction must have a hook that interests readers enough to grab their attention and stirs a curiosity to continue reading.
• Introduction must refer to a specific source (text, film, or image) and its author(s).
• Introduction must summarize an assigned source that includes the main characters (if any), themes, or concepts.
• Introduction must have a clear thesis statement that states the writer’s claim.

II. Body Section of a Commentary Essay

Body paragraphs (at least three):

• Each body paragraph of a commentary essay must have a topic sentence that emphasizes a single idea central to the main claim in the thesis statement that the writer will defend in the paragraph.
• Each body paragraph must include evidence from a source under analysis, such as a quote, indicating the character responsible and the context.
• Each body paragraph must give a commentary about the evidence through relevant analysis, linking the information to the idea at the beginning of the paragraph and the claim in the thesis.
• Each body paragraph must end with a closing statement and a bridge sentence to facilitate a logical flow to the next paragraph or section.

III. Conclusion Section of a Commentary Essay

Sum up a commentary essay by:

• Restating the thesis.
• Emphasizing the main ideas of a commentary essay.
• Giving a final remark that confirms the importance of the essay topic.

Example of a Commentary Essay

Commentary Essay’s Title: The Rhetorical Stance in Jessica Grose’s “Cleaning: The Final Feminist Frontier”

I. Example of an Introduction of a Commentary Essay

A woman never rests, not with society constantly demanding her value at every turn. This idea is the message in Jessica Grose’s famous article, “Cleaning: The Final Feminist Frontier.” The author argues that cleaning remains a feature of women’s value in society, despite men’s growing involvement in childcare and cooking. The article also opens with personal accounts and convincing facts, suggesting its credibility as a source of information about the dynamics confronting American women. In her article, Grose communicates her message effectively by adopting a rhetorical stance characterized by emotional appeals.

II. Example of Body Paragraphs of a Commentary Essay

A. commentary on the main idea of the article.

Grose opens the article with a personal story of her and her husband cleaning their house after Hurricane Sandy forced them indoors. She uses the uneven distribution of the cleaning task in her marriage to point out the larger feminist issue of who between a husband and wife should do the job. The article gives three reasons why men shy away from the cleaning task, including the fact that it is women who receive praise for a clean house, the media focuses on men’s growing involvement in childcare and cooking, and it is not fun. According to Grose, even distribution of the cleaning task can happen by creating a task chart that shows who does what on the basis of skill and ability and adopting cleaning gadgets to make cleaning more fun.

Throughout the article, Grose uses sources to appeal to the readers’ ethos and build her argument. Some of the sources she uses to achieve these goals include a study by sociologists Judith Treas and Tsui-o Tai and an article by Matthew Krehbiel, North America Fabric Care Brand Manager for P&G. Citing these sources helps the author to build her credibility in the eyes of readers.

Regarding appeals to logos, Grose mentions statistics and interesting facts that help to enhance the logical progression of ideas central to her argument. To emphasize the uneven distribution of the cleaning task, she says, “My husband and I both work…I do the dishes nine times out of ten, and he barely knows how the washer and dryer work.” Such facts confirm and support the idea that women do more household chores than men. She also cites statistics, showing “55 percent of mothers working full-time in America do some housework daily compared to 18 percent of fathers.” In this respect, the article is factual about the uneven distribution of household chores that disadvantages women. As a result, the personal details and statistics from credible sources help Grose to impress upon the reader how society uses the domestic environment to subjugate women.

The article appeals to the readers’ pathos in the beginning and middle sections, where Grose uses emotionally-charged words and phrases to induce the audience’s sympathy. For example, Grose laments that, while she “was eight months pregnant,” her husband experienced the complexity of fighting “a massively pregnant person.” These words evoke an image in the readers’ mind that portrays women as vulnerable in the domestic space because of natural factors, like high emotions and pregnancy. Indeed, readers may feel sympathetic to Grose and the women who generally live in this social context. Moreover, using words and phrases, like ‘argued,’ ‘sucks,’ ‘be shunned,’ ‘be judged,’ and ‘headachey,’ evokes readers’ negative feelings about cleaning. As such, they are more drawn to sympathize with men and view men as selfish.

III. Example of a Conclusion of a Commentary Essay

Grose takes a rhetorical stand throughout the article to persuade her audience of the unfair distribution of cleaning labor in the domestic space. By referencing credible sources, citing statistics and interesting facts, and portraying women as adversely disadvantaged, Grose effectively appeals to the readers’ ethos, logos, and pathos. This rhetorical stand is critical in communicating how society remains unfair to women in the domestic space despite men’s growing involvement in some household chores like childcare and cooking.

4 Easy Steps for Writing a Commentary Essay

Writing a commentary essay is a technical process that requires students to grasp essential details. For example, these details reflect 4 writing steps: preparation, stage setup, writing a first draft, and wrap-up. Typically, each step’s details of writing a commentary essay reflect the wisdom writers should exhibit when creating any scholarly text.

Step 1: Preparation

Preparation is the first step of writing a commentary essay. As the name suggests, it is when writers take time to create a favorable environment to write their papers. The first task is identifying a single source, where students should select good sources they can analyze easily, including poems, novels, or films. The second task is to create a topic, where students must write short topics that communicate a precise message of a commentary essay.

Step 2: Stage Setup

Setting the stage is the second step of writing a commentary essay. The first task is to read, watch, or examine an assigned source to identify key themes and ideas. The second activity is to research reliable sources that help to generate ideas that align with these themes and concepts. The next task is to create a clear essay outline emphasizing the introduction, body, and conclusion with all the essential details.

Step 3: Writing a First Draft of a Commentary Essay

Writing a first draft is the third step in creating a commentary essay, and the focus is generating a paper that can be used for further editing and improvement. As such, students should organize their ideas into text, emphasizing the claim in the thesis statement, ideas in the topic sentences, evidence (quotes), and transitions in the body paragraphs. Students should also ensure the conclusion restates the thesis, summarizes the main ideas of a commentary essay, and gives a final remark about their commentaries, focusing on an assigned source and topic.

Step 4: Wrap-Up

The wrap-up is the last step in writing a commentary essay. The main focus is transforming a first draft into a final text by eliminating all mistakes and flaws. Typically, students should revise all sections that do not make sense to a central claim or those that affect the paper’s logical progression. They should also edit a commentary essay by adding or deleting words and phrases and eliminating grammatical mistakes, missing punctuation, formatting errors, and incorrect citations.

20 Tips for Writing a Commentary Essay

Looking at the information in the preceding sections, writing a great commentary essay is a complex task that requires students to demonstrate knowledge of what it takes to create a quality paper. Some of the tips for writing a commentary essay include identifying a single source, which can be a text, film, or image; noting the source’s basic information, like the author, title, and publication date; identifying the central themes in the source; writing an introduction that emphasizes the source’s basic information; creating a thesis that communicates a claim about the source; adopting the unique structure as above; beginning paragraphs with a topic sentence; incorporating quotes from the source into body paragraphs; commenting on the quotes and their significance; and concluding a commentary essay with a summary that makes a final remark about a single source and topic.

10 things to do when writing a commentary essay include:

• identifying a source for writing a commentary essay;
• reading, watching, or analyzing an assigned source carefully and closely;
• outlining critical details, like themes, ideas, and literary devices;
• writing an introduction with a hook and an argumentative thesis statement;
• providing body paragraphs with topic sentences, concluding sentences, quotes, commentary, and transitions;
• maintaining a formal tone in a commentary essay;
• using the applicable format (APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian) correctly;
• presenting an introduction that summarizes a commentary essay;
• avoiding grammatical mistakes;
• proofreading a final version of a commentary essay.

10 things not to do include:

• failing to document the source’s essential details, like the author’s name and surname;
• concentrating on the introduction more than the body;
• not incorporating quotes in body paragraphs;
• focusing on too many ideas in a commentary essay;
• not defending the claim in the thesis;
• ignoring a unique outline of a commentary essay;
• writing with too many grammatical mistakes;
• using different formatting styles (APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian);
• not implementing transitions in body paragraphs;
• creating a commentary essay without a logical flow of ideas and thoughts.

Summing Up on How to Write a Perfect Commentary Essay

• Choose a single source that is simple to analyze.
• Create a clear thesis that emphasizes the focus of a commentary essay, such as a claim.
• Identify passages or themes in an assigned source that help to build an argumentative claim.
• Use an introduction paragraph for its purpose: to introduce a specific topic. As such, it should be short and precise.
• Use a body section for its purpose: to analyze a particular source and defend a central claim comprehensively. Therefore, it should be long and have quotes as evidence.
• Use a conclusion part to summarize a commentary essay, and it should be concise. More importantly, it should leave readers with a lasting impression of a defined source and topic.

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Unveiling Social Commentary: A Guide to Its Definition and Significance

A social commentary explores societal structures and behaviors, uncovering and critiquing underlying power dynamics, inequalities, and injustices. It often uses literature, art, film, or other creative mediums to provoke thought and inspire change.

Social commentaries play a vital role in shaping public discourse, raising awareness, and challenging the status quo. They not only reflect the zeitgeist but also contribute to social and political movements, fostering empathy and understanding.

The main article delves deeper into various forms of social commentary, their historical context, and their impact on society. It examines how literature, art, and media have been used throughout history to critique social norms, challenge authority, and promote social justice.

Table of Contents

Social Commentary

Social commentary, a critique of societal structures and behaviors, encompasses various dimensions. Here are nine key aspects:

• Observation: Keen observation of social norms and behaviors.
• Analysis: Uncovering underlying power dynamics and inequalities.
• Critique: Questioning and challenging social assumptions.
• Provocation: Sparking thought and debate on social issues.
• Education: Raising awareness about social injustices and inequalities.
• Empathy: Fostering understanding of diverse perspectives.
• Change: Inspiring and motivating social and political change.
• Reflection: Encouraging self-reflection and critical thinking.
• Expression: Utilizing various mediums, such as literature, art, and film, to convey social commentary.

These aspects are interconnected and essential for effective social commentary. They allow us to critically examine society, challenge injustices, and work towards a more just and equitable world. For instance, the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” provides a powerful critique of racial inequality, while the film “Parasite” explores class struggles and economic disparities. Through these key aspects, social commentary continues to shape public discourse, promote social change, and inspire generations.

Observation

Observation serves as the foundation for social commentary, providing the raw material for analysis and critique. Keen observation of social norms and behaviors allows commentators to identify and understand the underlying currents that shape society. This observation can take many forms, from direct personal experience to in-depth research and data collection.

For example, the renowned social commentator Jane Jacobs spent years observing the everyday life of New York City streets. Her observations led her to develop groundbreaking theories about urban planning and the importance of community engagement.

Observation is not merely about gathering facts but also about developing a deep understanding of the social context. It requires empathy, the ability to see the world from different perspectives, and a willingness to challenge assumptions. By observing social norms and behaviors with a critical eye, social commentators can uncover hidden power dynamics, inequalities, and injustices that often go unnoticed.

This understanding is crucial for effective social commentary. Without keen observation, commentators risk making superficial or inaccurate critiques. By grounding their work in solid observation, social commentators can produce powerful and insightful works that resonate with audiences and inspire change.

Analysis is a crucial component of social commentary. It involves examining social norms and behaviors to uncover the underlying power dynamics and inequalities that shape them. This analysis allows commentators to identify the root causes of social problems and to develop effective strategies for addressing them.

For example, the social commentator Ta-Nehisi Coates has written extensively about the systemic racism that persists in American society. Through careful analysis of historical and contemporary data, Coates has shown how racism is embedded in our institutions, policies, and culture. His work has helped to raise awareness of this issue and to inspire a new generation of activists to fight for racial justice.

The ability to analyze social dynamics is essential for effective social commentary. Without analysis, commentators risk making superficial or inaccurate critiques. By understanding the underlying power dynamics and inequalities that shape society, commentators can produce more powerful and insightful work that can lead to real change.

Critique plays a central role in social commentary by interrogating and challenging prevailing social assumptions, norms, and beliefs. It involves a critical examination of the status quo, questioning its validity and exposing potential flaws or injustices.

• Unveiling Hidden Biases: Critique sheds light on hidden biases and prejudices that shape social structures and interactions. By scrutinizing societal norms, commentators can reveal how they perpetuate inequalities and limit opportunities.
• Challenging Power Dynamics: Critique examines power dynamics, questioning the distribution of authority and resources. It exposes power imbalances and challenges the legitimacy of those in positions of privilege.
• Promoting Social Justice: Critique is often driven by a commitment to social justice. It aims to expose and challenge injustices, advocating for a more equitable and just society.
• Encouraging Critical Thinking: Critique fosters critical thinking by encouraging individuals to question assumptions and consider alternative perspectives. It promotes intellectual curiosity and challenges complacency.

Critique is essential to effective social commentary as it pushes the boundaries of accepted thought and encourages a deeper understanding of social issues. By questioning and challenging social assumptions, commentators can spark dialogue, raise awareness, and inspire positive change.

Provocation

Provocation is an inherent aspect of social commentary, as it seeks to incite critical thinking and stimulate discourse on pressing social issues. By challenging societal norms, questioning assumptions, and presenting alternative perspectives, social commentary provokes individuals to engage with the topic, form opinions, and potentially initiate change.

• Challenging the Status Quo: Social commentary often challenges the status quo by presenting contrasting viewpoints or exposing uncomfortable truths. This can spark debate and encourage individuals to critically evaluate their own beliefs and assumptions.
• Raising Awareness: Provocative social commentary can raise awareness about underrepresented or marginalized perspectives, shedding light on social injustices and fostering empathy.
• Encouraging Dialogue: By sparking thought and debate, social commentary creates a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas. This can lead to a deeper understanding of complex issues and promote constructive conversations.
• Inspiring Action: Provocative social commentary can ignite a sense of urgency and inspire individuals to take action. It can motivate people to engage in activism, support social causes, or advocate for change.

Provocation is a vital component of effective social commentary, as it pushes boundaries, encourages intellectual growth, and fosters social progress. By provoking thought and debate, social commentary empowers individuals to become active agents of change and contributes to a more just and equitable society.

In the realm of social commentary, education plays a pivotal role in raising awareness about social injustices and inequalities. By shedding light on these issues, social commentators contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry, capable of recognizing and challenging societal wrongs.

• Unveiling Hidden Truths: Social commentary often uncovers and exposes hidden truths about social injustices and inequalities. Through research, storytelling, and analysis, commentators bring these issues to the forefront, dispelling ignorance and denial.
• Empowering the Voiceless: Social commentary provides a platform for the voices of the marginalized and oppressed. By amplifying their stories and experiences, commentators give agency to those who are often silenced or ignored.
• Fostering Empathy and Understanding: Through powerful narratives and evocative imagery, social commentary helps individuals develop empathy and understanding for those facing social injustices and inequalities.
• Inspiring Action and Change: By raising awareness and educating the public, social commentary can inspire individuals to take action and work towards social change. It can motivate people to support organizations, advocate for policies, and engage in activism.

Education, therefore, is an indispensable aspect of social commentary. By illuminating social injustices and inequalities, commentators empower individuals with knowledge and inspire them to become agents of positive change. Through education, social commentary contributes to a more just and equitable society.

Empathy plays a crucial role in social commentary by fostering understanding of diverse perspectives. Social commentary often involves examining and critiquing social structures and behaviors, which requires the ability to see the world from different viewpoints. Empathy allows commentators to connect with the experiences and emotions of individuals from various backgrounds, identities, and walks of life.

This understanding is essential for effective social commentary. Without empathy, commentators risk making superficial or inaccurate critiques that fail to capture the complexities of social issues. By embracing empathy, commentators can produce more nuanced and insightful work that resonates with a wider audience and promotes meaningful change.

Empathy is not just about feeling sympathy for others, but also about actively seeking out and listening to diverse perspectives. Social commentators must make a conscious effort to engage with people from different backgrounds and experiences in order to develop a truly inclusive and empathetic understanding of the world.

Within the realm of social commentary, change serves as a driving force, inspiring and motivating individuals and societies to work towards a more just and equitable world. Social commentary often acts as a catalyst for change, shedding light on social injustices and inequalities, and mobilizing people to take action.

• Raising Awareness and Consciousness: Social commentary brings important social issues to the forefront, raising public awareness and consciousness about pressing concerns. By highlighting social problems, commentators can awaken individuals to the need for change.
• Challenging the Status Quo: Social commentary challenges the status quo, questioning prevailing norms and values, and exposing the underlying power structures that perpetuate social injustices. This challenge can create a sense of urgency and inspire people to demand change.
• Empowering Individuals and Communities: Social commentary empowers individuals and communities by providing them with knowledge and tools to understand and address social issues. It can foster a sense of agency and encourage people to take ownership of their lives and communities.
• Building Coalitions and Movements: Social commentary can bring together diverse groups and individuals, building coalitions and movements for social change. By providing a shared understanding of social problems and inspiring a common vision, commentary can mobilize collective action.

Social commentary plays a vital role in inspiring and motivating social and political change. By raising awareness, challenging the status quo, empowering individuals, and building coalitions, social commentary contributes to a more just and equitable society.

In the realm of social commentary, reflection plays a crucial role in fostering self-awareness and critical thinking, which are essential for understanding and addressing social issues.

• Introspection and Self-Awareness: Social commentary encourages individuals to engage in introspection and self-reflection, examining their own beliefs, values, and biases. This process helps them develop a deeper understanding of their own role in perpetuating or challenging social norms.
• Critical Analysis of Societal Norms: Social commentary prompts individuals to critically analyze societal norms and structures, questioning their validity and impact on various groups of people. This critical thinking allows individuals to identify and challenge unjust or discriminatory practices.
• Re-evaluating Assumptions: Through reflection, social commentary encourages individuals to re-evaluate their assumptions about the world and to consider alternative perspectives. This process helps them become more open-minded and receptive to new ideas and experiences.
• Personal and Social Transformation: The process of self-reflection and critical thinking fostered by social commentary can lead to personal and social transformation. By challenging their own beliefs and assumptions, individuals can become more empathetic, tolerant, and committed to social justice.

Overall, reflection is an essential component of social commentary as it encourages individuals to critically examine themselves and the world around them, fostering a deeper understanding of social issues and inspiring positive change.

Expression through various mediums like literature, art, and film is a fundamental component of social commentary, as it provides powerful avenues for conveying complex social messages and critiques. These mediums allow commentators to creatively explore and communicate social issues, reaching diverse audiences and evoking a range of emotions and responses.

Literature, with its capacity for nuanced storytelling and character development, enables social commentators to delve into the human experience and expose the social forces that shape individual lives. Novels, short stories, and plays can illuminate social injustices, explore the complexities of human relationships, and challenge societal norms.

Art, in its visual forms, offers a potent means of capturing and conveying social commentary. Paintings, sculptures, and installations can provoke thought, raise awareness, and stimulate conversations about pressing social issues. Artists use their creative expression to depict social realities, challenge stereotypes, and inspire viewers to reflect on their own values and beliefs.

The expression of social commentary through literature, art, and film is crucial for creating awareness, fostering critical thinking, and encouraging social change. By utilizing these mediums, social commentators can effectively communicate complex social issues, challenge dominant narratives, and inspire individuals to engage with social problems in meaningful ways.

Frequently Asked Questions about Social Commentary

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding social commentary, providing concise and informative answers.

Question 1: What is the purpose of social commentary?

Social commentary aims to critique and analyze societal structures, norms, and behaviors, highlighting injustices and inequalities with the intention of inspiring positive change.

Question 2: What are the different forms of social commentary?

Social commentary can be expressed through various mediums such as literature, art, film, music , and even everyday conversations, each offering unique ways to convey social messages and critiques.

Question 3: Why is social commentary important?

Social commentary is crucial for fostering critical thinking, raising awareness about social issues, challenging dominant narratives, and inspiring individuals and communities to work towards a more just and equitable society.

Question 4: How can I engage in social commentary?

Engaging in social commentary can take many forms, from actively listening to diverse perspectives and reflecting on your own biases to creating and sharing your own commentary through various mediums.

Question 5: What are some examples of social commentary in popular culture?

Examples of social commentary in popular culture include novels like “To Kill a Mockingbird” and films like “Parasite,” both of which critique social injustices and inequalities.

Question 6: How can social commentary contribute to social change?

Social commentary can contribute to social change by raising awareness, challenging harmful norms, inspiring activism, and influencing policy decisions.

In conclusion, social commentary plays a vital role in shaping our understanding of society and inspiring positive change. By engaging with social commentary in its various forms, we can cultivate a more critical and empathetic perspective on the world around us.

Transition to the next article section:

Social Commentary Tips

Social commentary is a valuable tool for analyzing and critiquing societal structures, norms, and behaviors. Here are several tips for creating effective social commentary:

Ground your commentary in research and evidence: Support your arguments with data, statistics, and examples to strengthen your credibility and persuasiveness.

Use clear and concise language: Avoid jargon and technical terms that may alienate your audience. Strive for clarity and accessibility in your writing or speech.

Consider diverse perspectives: Acknowledge and address different viewpoints on the issue you are discussing. This demonstrates a balanced and thoughtful approach.

Be respectful and avoid personal attacks: Focus on critiquing ideas and systems, rather than individuals. Maintain a respectful tone even when discussing controversial topics.

Offer potential solutions: While critique is important, also suggest constructive solutions or ways to address the issues you raise.

Use creative and engaging formats: Explore different mediums to convey your commentary, such as essays, articles, speeches, films, or art installations. This can make your message more accessible and impactful.

Collaborate with others: Partner with organizations, activists, or fellow commentators to amplify your voice and reach a wider audience.

Be persistent and adaptable: Social change takes time and effort. Stay committed to your message and be willing to adjust your approach as needed.

By following these tips, you can create social commentary that is informative, thought-provoking, and potentially world-changing.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

Social commentary is a powerful tool for critically examining societal structures, challenging injustices, and inspiring positive change. Throughout this article, we have explored the multifaceted nature of social commentary, its historical context, and its significance in shaping public discourse and social movements.

Effective social commentary is grounded in research, evidence, and diverse perspectives. It uses clear and respectful language to critique ideas and systems, while also offering potential solutions. By engaging with social commentary in various forms, we cultivate critical thinking, empathy, and a commitment to social justice. Social commentators play a vital role in holding power to account, raising awareness about marginalized voices, and inspiring individuals and communities to work towards a more just and equitable society.

Dieter Felix

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• Able to critique writing of others in a constructive manner at an advanced level.
• Advanced understanding of how social commentaries differ from other forms of the essay.
• Apply knowledge of social, political, and cultural issues to social commentary essays.
• Gain confidence in essay writing skills to an advanced level.
• Understand methods of studying and evaluating social, political, and cultural issues at an advanced level.

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Individual and Society — Social Commentary

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• The Great Gatsby

F. Scott Fitzgerald

• Literature Notes
• Social Stratification: The Great Gatsby as Social Commentary
• The Great Gatsby at a Glance
• Book Summary
• About The Great Gatsby
• Character List
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• F. Scott Fitzgerald Biography
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• In Praise of Comfort: Displaced Spirituality in The Great Gatsby
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Critical Essays Social Stratification: The Great Gatsby as Social Commentary

In The Great Gatsby Fitzgerald offers up commentary on a variety of themes — justice, power, greed, betrayal, the American dream, and so on. Of all the themes, perhaps none is more well developed than that of social stratification. The Great Gatsby is regarded as a brilliant piece of social commentary, offering a vivid peek into American life in the 1920s. Fitzgerald carefully sets up his novel into distinct groups but, in the end, each group has its own problems to contend with, leaving a powerful reminder of what a precarious place the world really is. By creating distinct social classes — old money, new money, and no money — Fitzgerald sends strong messages about the elitism running throughout every strata of society.

The first and most obvious group Fitzgerald attacks is, of course, the rich. However, for Fitzgerald (and certainly his characters), placing the rich all in one group together would be a great mistake. For many of those of modest means, the rich seem to be unified by their money. However, Fitzgerald reveals this is not the case. In The Great Gatsby , Fitzgerald presents two distinct types of wealthy people. First, there are people like the Buchanans and Jordan Baker who were born into wealth. Their families have had money for many generations, hence they are "old money." As portrayed in the novel, the "old money" people don't have to work (they rarely, if ever, even speak about business arrangements) and they spend their time amusing themselves with whatever takes their fancy. Daisy, Tom, Jordan, and the distinct social class they represent are perhaps the story's most elitist group, imposing distinctions on the other people of wealth (like Gatsby) based not so much on how much money one has, but where that money came from and when it was acquired. For the "old money" people, the fact that Gatsby (and countless other people like him in the 1920s) has only just recently acquired his money is reason enough to dislike him. In their way of thinking, he can't possibly have the same refinement, sensibility, and taste they have. Not only does he work for a living, but he comes from a low-class background which, in their opinion, means he cannot possibly be like them.

In many ways, the social elite are right. The "new money" people cannot be like them, and in many ways that works in their favor — those in society's highest echelon are not nice people at all. They are judgmental and superficial, failing to look at the essence of the people around them (and themselves, too). Instead, they live their lives in such a way as to perpetuate their sense of superiority — however unrealistic that may be. The people with newly acquired wealth, though, aren't necessarily much better. Think of Gatsby's partygoers. They attend his parties, drink his liquor, and eat his food, never once taking the time to even meet their host (nor do they even bother to wait for an invitation, they just show up). When Gatsby dies, all the people who frequented his house every week mysteriously became busy elsewhere, abandoning Gatsby when he could no longer do anything for them. One would like to think the newly wealthy would be more sensitive to the world around them — after all, it was only recently they were without money and most doors were closed to them. As Fitzgerald shows, however, their concerns are largely living for the moment, steeped in partying and other forms of excess.

Just as he did with people of money, Fitzgerald uses the people with no money to convey a strong message. Nick, although he comes from a family with a bit of wealth, doesn't have nearly the capital of Gatsby or Tom. In the end, though, he shows himself to be an honorable and principled man, which is more than Tom exhibits. Myrtle, though, is another story. She comes from the middle class at best. She is trapped, as are so many others, in the valley of ashes, and spends her days trying to make it out. In fact, her desire to move up the social hierarchy leads her to her affair with Tom and she is decidedly pleased with the arrangement.

Because of the misery pervading her life, Myrtle has distanced herself from her moral obligations and has no difficulty cheating on her husband when it means that she gets to lead the lifestyle she wants, if only for a little while. What she doesn't realize, however, is that Tom and his friends will never accept her into their circle. (Notice how Tom has a pattern of picking lower-class women to sleep with. For him, their powerlessness makes his own position that much more superior. In a strange way, being with women who aspire to his class makes him feel better about himself and allows him to perpetuate the illusion that he is a good and important man.) Myrtle is no more than a toy to Tom and to those he represents.

Fitzgerald has a keen eye and in The Great Gatsby presents a harsh picture of the world he sees around him. The 1920s marked a time of great post-war economic growth, and Fitzgerald captures the frenzy of the society well. Although, of course, Fitzgerald could have no way of foreseeing the stock market crash of 1929, the world he presents in The Great Gatsby seems clearly to be headed for disaster. They have assumed skewed worldviews, mistakenly believing their survival lies in stratification and reinforcing social boundaries. They erroneously place their faith in superficial external means (such as money and materialism), while neglecting to cultivate the compassion and sensitivity that, in fact, separate humans from the animals.

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Social Commentary: Making Change Through Writing

Social commentary is a form of writing that offers insight into society, its values, and its customs. It is the act of using rhetorical means to provide commentary on issues in a society. Social commentary can be found in a variety of literary works, including novels, plays, poems, and essays. It is a powerful tool that writers use to shed light on social issues and spark change.

One of the most notable examples of social commentary is Plato’s The Republic. In this work, Plato critiques the flaws of democracy and proposes an alternative system of government. His ideas have had a lasting impact on political philosophy and continue to be studied to this day.

Another example of social commentary is Aristophanes’ plays. In his comedies, Aristophanes takes aim at the political and social issues of his time. His plays are known for their sharp wit and biting satire, and they offer a glimpse into the culture of ancient Athens.

More recently, Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games has become a popular example of social commentary in literature. The novel explores themes of poverty, inequality, and oppression, and offers a critique of the media and entertainment industries. The book has been praised for its social commentary and its ability to engage young readers in complex issues.

Jonathan Swift’s A Modest Proposal is perhaps one of the most famous examples of social commentary. In this essay, Swift suggests that the Irish should sell their children as food to the wealthy in order to alleviate poverty. While Swift’s proposal is clearly satirical, it highlights the extreme poverty and suffering that was pervasive in Ireland at the time.

Social commentary is an important tool for writers who want to bring attention to social issues and inspire change. By using rhetorical means to critique society, writers can help to expose the flaws in our systems and promote a more just and equitable world. Whether through novels, plays, or essays, social commentary offers a powerful way to engage readers and encourage them to think critically about the world around them.

What Is Social Commentary?

Social commentary is a literary technique used to criticize or analyze social issues or societal norms. It is a form of expression that aims to bring attention to the flaws or injustices present in a society, either through direct or indirect means. Social commentary can be found in various forms of literature, including novels, poetry, and plays, as well as in other forms of media such as film and television. It is meant to provoke thought and inspire action towards positive change. Social commentary can address a wide range of issues, including politics, race, gender, class, and religion, amog others. social commentary serves as a reflection of society and its values, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses.

What Is Social Commentary Quizlet?

Social commentary on Quizlet refers to the written or spoken expression of opinions or observations about societal issues, values, and customs. It is a type of writing that offers insight into society by using rhetorical means to provide commentary on issues affecting a particular society. This form of commentary can take various forms, including essays, articles, and speeches, and is often used to raise awareness, spark discussions, and encourage critical thinking about social issues. Social commentary on Quizlet is an essential tool for individuals seeking to promote social change and advocate for social justice.

What Is Social Commentary Examples?

Social commentary is a form of writing or art that aims to criticize or comment on society and its issues. It often highlights the flaws and injustices of society, and proposes solutions or alternative ways of thinking. Examples of social commentary can be found in literature, such as Plato’s The Republic, whih critiques the political system of Athens, Aristophanes’ plays, which satirize various aspects of Athenian society, and Jonathan Swift’s A Modern Proposal, which mocks the callousness of the British ruling class towards the Irish. Similarly, contemporary works such as The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins also offer commentary on societal issues, including class inequality, government control, and the exploitation of the poor. In all of these examples, social commentary is used to provoke thought, spark discussion, and inspire change.

What Is Social Commentary In Poetry?

Social commentary in poetry refers to the act of using poetry as a medium to express opinions, critiques, and observations about society. It involves using poetic language to comment on social issues, such as politics, inequality, discrimination, and other societal problems.

Poets who engage in social commentary often use their artistry to call attention to issues that are not receiving enough attention in mainstream media. They may also use their poetry to challenge existing power structures or to offer alternative perspectives on social problems.

Social commentary in poetry can take many forms, including satire, irony, and allegory. Poets may use humor and wit to expose the absurdity of certain societal norms or to highlight the contradictions inherent in certain political or social systems. They may also use metaphor and symbolism to convey complex ideas about social issues in a way that is accessible to readers.

Social commentary in poetry is a powerful tool for raising awareness about social issues and promoting social change. It allows poets to use their artistic talents to contribute to important conversations about the world we live in and to inspire others to take action toards a more just and equitable society.

Social commentary is a powerful tool in literature that allows writers to offer insight into the values, customs, and issues of society. Through the use of rhetorical means, writers can critique societal norms and offer a call to action for change. Social commentary has been used throughout history in various forms of literature, from Plato’s The Republic to modern-day novels like The Hunger Games. By shedding light on societal issues and questioning the status quo, social commentary can inspire readers to think critically about the world around them and work towars positive change. As such, social commentary remains a relevant and necessary aspect of literature today.

William Armstrong

Social Commentary Essays

Divergent paths of beneatha’s love: unveiling themes through george murchison and joseph asagai in a raisin in the sun, affective images research paper, this is america (official video) donald glover music video analysis, anthropomorphizing of cartoon animal based on the film zootopia, satire as a medicine for social ills in “mandragola” and “lysistrata.”, lavalle’s “the ballad of black tom” research paper, bartleby the scrivener, popular essay topics.

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Home Essay Samples Literature The Pardoner's Tale

Analysis of Geoffrey Chaucer's Social Commentary in The Pardoner’s Tale

Table of contents

Social commentary in the pardoner’s tale.

• Chaucer, G. (1390). The Canterbury Tales. (N. B. Scholars, Ed.) Harvard University Press.
• Gamble, B. M. (2011). The Pardoner's Tale and the Perils of a Postmodernist Perception. ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes, and Reviews, 24(3), 146–150. https://doi.org/10.1080/0895769X.2011.595602
• Kinney, A. F. (2012). The Pardoner's Tale: Criticism and Contexts. Boydell & Brewer.
• Luttrell, C. (1990). Chaucer's Pardoner: A Psychoanalytic Portrait. University of Georgia Press.
• Warren, M. (1985). The Knight, the Miller, and the Pardoner. John Benjamins Publishing Company.

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The Silent Conversation: Exploring Art as a Medium of Social Commentary

In the realm of artistic expression, a silent conversation unfolds—a dialogue that transcends words, inviting viewers to engage in thought-provoking reflections on societal issues. In this blog post, we'll delve into the profound world of art as a medium of social commentary, exploring how artists employ their creations to spark conversations, challenge norms, and offer nuanced perspectives on the complexities of the human experience.

Art as a Mirror of Society: Begin by acknowledging the role of art as a mirror reflecting the intricacies of society. Explore how artists use their creative prowess to capture the essence of cultural, political, and social landscapes, providing viewers with a visual commentary on the world around them.

Symbolism and Allegory: Delve into the use of symbolism and allegory in art as tools for social commentary. Discuss how artists employ visual metaphors to convey deeper meanings, allowing viewers to interpret and connect with the artwork on various levels. Symbolism becomes a language that transcends the limitations of words.

Challenging the Status Quo: Examine how artists use their creations to challenge the status quo. Discuss the power of provocative art that questions societal norms, sheds light on injustices, and prompts viewers to reconsider their perspectives. Art becomes a catalyst for critical thinking and social awareness.

Political Satire and Irony: Explore the realm of political satire and irony as vehicles for social commentary. Discuss how artists use humor and wit to dissect political systems, critique power structures, and offer biting commentary on contemporary issues. Satirical art becomes a means of both entertainment and enlightenment.

Capturing Cultural Shifts: Delve into the ability of art to capture cultural shifts and evolving societal attitudes. Discuss how artists serve as cultural observers, documenting changes in values, traditions, and identity. Art becomes a time capsule that reflects the dynamic nature of human society.

Provoking Empathy Through Portraiture: Examine how portraiture becomes a powerful tool for social commentary, particularly in provoking empathy. Discuss how artists use the human face and form to tell stories, convey emotions, and highlight the shared humanity that binds us all. Portraits become windows into diverse lived experiences.

Art as a Catalyst for Conversation: Discuss the transformative role of art as a catalyst for conversation. Explore how viewers engage in dialogues inspired by artworks, sharing interpretations, questioning assumptions, and collectively exploring the multifaceted layers of social issues. Art becomes a communal space for reflection and exchange of ideas.

Street Art and Public Discourse: Examine the impact of street art in fostering public discourse. Discuss how artists take their creations to the streets, turning public spaces into canvases for social commentary. Street art becomes a democratized form of expression, accessible to diverse audiences.

Conclusion: In the silent conversation of brushstrokes and sculpted forms, art emerges as a profound medium of social commentary. By exploring art as a mirror of society, employing symbolism and allegory, challenging the status quo, embracing political satire, capturing cultural shifts, provoking empathy through portraiture, catalyzing conversations, and taking art to the streets, artists contribute to the rich tapestry of human expression and understanding. As we navigate the complexities of our world, let art be a guiding companion—a silent but powerful voice that prompts us to question, reflect, and engage in the ongoing dialogue about the society we inhabit. In each stroke and creation, artists extend an invitation to viewers to participate in the silent conversation that transcends boundaries and cultivates a deeper appreciation for the diverse narratives that shape our shared human experience.

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Banksy’s 10 Most Powerful Works of Social Commentary

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This weekend, the Sincura Group hosted an unauthorized auction of several iconic works from the reclusive—and still anonymous—street artist Banksy. Each of the pieces were removed from the walls of real buildings and put up for sale, with international bidders willing to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to own an actual Banksy. Obviously, Banksy himself was not pleased with the “Stealing Banksy?” auction, releasing a somewhat tongue-in-cheek statement on his website saying, “This show has got nothing to do with me, and I think it’s disgusting people are allowed to go around displaying art on walls without getting permission.”

Since his unique brand of street art, stencil paintings and graffiti first started appearing in the early ’90s, the mysterious artist has become a media sensation for his stinging political and social commentary. And art collectors—even ones who purchase pieces in unauthorized auctions—have paid fortunes for the guerrilla work of the world’s most notorious street artist.

Here’s our look at Banksy’s 10 most powerful works of social commentary that have helped make him into a one of culture’s most iconic—and controversial—figures.

10. Spray Art

Image In a work of New York performance art meant to demonstrate the subjective value of art, Banksy actually sold hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of prints on the sidewalk alongside venders to unsuspecting customers. All for a whopping $420.

9. Mobile Lovers

Image One of Banksy’s newest pieces , the commentary on tech-obsessed culture depicts a couple more consumed with their smartphones than their embrace.

8. The London Games Series

Image In the lead up to the London Olympics, Banksy created a series of images —like this one of a child sweat shop worker churning out British flag merchandise—that criticized the way the officials overlooked global issues in light of the Games.

7. Exit Through the Gift Shop

Image Banksy’s critically acclaimed documentary about the rise of street art and the career of fellow artist Thierry Guetta may have just been a work of performance art itself. Since its release there’s been speculation that the documentary was actually a carefully scripted hoax that provided commentary on the world of art, consumerism and celebrity.

6. The Guantanamo Bay Disney Stunt

Image When Banksy covertly erected a life-sized dummy resembling a Guantanamo Bay prisoner inside a Disney Land attraction, it did more than just get people’s attention. The stunt caused Disney officials to temporarily shut down parts of the park and briefly detain a Banksy accomplice.

5. I Remember When This Was Trees

Image Created in Detroit in 2010, the image depicts a young boy with a heartbreaking message as he stands in the rubble of a city devastated by an economic collapse.

4. Cardinal Sin

Image Created in 2011, in the wake of the Catholic Church’s child sexual abuse scandal, Cardinal Sin depicts the traditional bust of a priest—with his face disguised by pixels in the same way the media hid the young victims’ identity in their coverage of the case.

3. Crazy Horse

In one of his more controversial pieces as part of the New York “Better Out Than In” tour, Banksy incorporated actual audio from the Wikileaks files that recounted an Iraq airstrike that resulted in civilian causalities. Combined with an image of night vision goggle-wearing horses and crosshairs affixed on targets below, the work remains one of his most haunting pieces.

2. Flower Thrower

Banksy’s iconic ode to nonviolence remains one of the images most closely associated with the reclusive artist.

1. Flying Balloons Girl

Image Created in 2005, the image of a little girl with balloons attempting to float over the West Bank barrier wall that separates the Palestinian territories from Israel has become one of Banksy’s most iconic stencil works.

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The new social media etiquette: Post your politics, not your kids

From Facebook to TikTok, social media norms are always shifting. These tips can help you post properly.

There are no official rules for how to conduct yourself online.

In some ways, that’s great. You do you and deal with the consequences, if any arise.

But sometimes the internet’s anything-goes atmosphere can lead you into a mess you could have avoided. We can help. Here are nine maxims to live by as you post and chat online. Got social media etiquette rules (or wishes) of your own? Drop us a line .

Don’t overshare your kids

Give the children in your life the same agency you’d afford an adult.

The norms around sharing kid-related content online have shifted. We now know that once something is on the internet, it can be impossible to remove it, and that oversharing kids can be a form of exploitation or expose them to predators.

If you’re going to share videos, photos or personal stories, get consent each time, starting at a young age. Default to posting privately instead of publicly, and use ephemeral options that are less likely to follow them around forever such as Instagram Stories, which disappear after 24 hours. If a child, teen or even young adult in your family asks you to remove content you’ve posted about them in the past, delete it without argument. Finally, if you do feel the need to post publicly, block or blur the child’s face so they have privacy.

Maintain a distinction between your child’s life and your own. They might look back with fondness at the slivers of their childhood you shared with your followers — or they could feel embarrassed or exploited. Some so-called child influencers are lobbying for stronger legal protection for minors whose families make money from social media. A New York Times investigation found that accounts showing young girls in bathing suits and leotards had large followings of adult men.

Only post what’s yours to share

Don’t post someone’s newborn baby, wedding photo or divorce news before they can. Private moments and conversations should stay private unless the other person is okay with you sharing — and yes, this includes texts and DMs. “May I post this?” is your new mantra, even if it’s your spouse, child or grandchild. When it comes to big life events, defer to the subject of your post. If you go to a wedding, ask the couple when and if they want photos posted online. If you take a picture where you look great and your friend less so, a quick “may I post?” goes a long way.

The same courtesy applies to strangers. A person existing in public doesn’t constitute permission to post them. Nobody wants to step out the door worrying someone they don’t know could blast their face to an online following. Sometimes when people behave badly, sharing some evidence can lead to consequences and accountability. That’s a tough situation, and it’s worth consulting someone you trust before you share a damning video or DM publicly.

Stay on topic in the comments

Public comments on social media posts are not the place to have a two-way conversation. Got a funny quip or compliment for the creator? Go for it. But don’t try to strike up a conversation, tell them to call you back or ask if they’re on Ozempic . Save it for a text, direct message or in-person interaction.

Post about your politics

We’re done with the “no politics at the dinner table” approach to social media. If people avoid every topic that could ruffle feathers — politics, religion, money, etc. — we consign social media to reflect only the easy, shallow parts of being human.

Let your friends and family know where you stand, not just on national politics, but on local and international issues as well. Do research and share your thoughts in a respectful manner. Welcome corrections and conflicting opinions. Over time, you’ll become better versed.

That said, remember that posting about a problem is not the same as doing something about it. Make sure your online opinions make their way to the real world, and put your time and money behind the causes you care about most.

Fact-check images and videos

If you do decide to share posts to back up your views, do it responsibly. Improvements to AI-generated images and video can make it tough to tell the real from the fake . Often, all it takes are a few seconds of critical thinking to figure out that the picture of a police dog clad in an American flag saving a baby from a rushing river isn’t bona fide.

There are a few tricks for spotting AI-generated content — a computerized sheen, too many fingers. Better questions, perhaps, are “Does this seem realistic?” or “Is this designed to provoke a strong reaction?”

If a photo or video seems too good, too cute or too horrible to be true, it could be fake or misinformation . Slow down, check the original source and seek out additional context.

Don’t overstep with influencers

Content creators choose to share their lives or work with the world, but they are not actually your friend (usually). They also aren’t receptacles for your emotions or opinions. These nouveau celebrities don’t owe you much of anything, so there’s no sense in getting mean or demanding. If a creator says or does something you dislike, you can respond respectfully, stop following or block them. Feel free to disagree with them about political or other issues if they choose to discuss them, but it’s rude to send comments or messages with unsolicited criticism or advice — say about parenting choices or that person’s appearance.

@justin_danger_nunley Can we have a talk? ♬ original sound - Justin Danger Nunley

Opt for deletion and ephemerality

Even as we get used to leaving traces of our lives online, an unflattering “digital footprint” can still cause problems. Colleges and employers check social media accounts for whatever they consider to be red flags. You can save yourself a headache by paring down the digital breadcrumbs you leave behind. Gen Z has already started moving in this direction, with some keeping their grids on Instagram completely blank .

On Facebook, you can manually delete posts or limit their audience. Instagram lets you hide posts without deleting them by choosing “archive.” You can also post to stories instead of the main feed, as stories disappear after a day. For X, you can sign up for a service such as TweetDelete , which automatically deletes posts after a certain period of time. Threads head Adam Mosseri has said the app may introduce a built-in auto-delete feature.

Read the room

The internet has made us more aware of tragedies at home and across the globe, and the suffering can seem endless. You don’t need to turn your profiles into news channels, but get a sense of the temperature before you post. A celebratory photo in the midst of a major disaster, especially one that’s affecting your friends, can leave a bad taste. Also consider what’s going on in your inner circle when sharing news, like announcing a pregnancy when someone you’re close to is dealing with infertility.

Match your post to the platform

LinkedIn is for career updates. Facebook is for posting in groups, selling used bookshelves or sharing major life updates. Instagram is for beautiful scenery and vibes. X is for stream-of-consciousness commentary and arguing. TikTok is for strangers. Make sure your posts fit the platform you’re on. (The emotional essays on LinkedIn are weird, sorry .)

If you’re tired of sharing updates with your whole audience — including your grandma and that one guy you dated when you were 19 — you may benefit from a smaller platform. Instagram lets you build a “Close Friends” list and share directly with those users. A Discord chatroom, Substack newsletter or “finsta” (anonymous Instagram account) may be a better home for your musings and confessions than a public channel.

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Data and Privacy: A guide to every privacy setting you should change now . We have gone through the settings for the most popular (and problematic) services to give you recommendations. Google | Amazon | Facebook | Venmo | Apple | Android

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Why We Still Turn to Magic in Difficult Times 

I n 1552, the Protestant divine Hugh Latimer preached a sermon in Lincolnshire, England. “When we be in trouble,” he said , “or sickness, or lose any thing, we run hither and thither to wizards or sorcerers, whom we call wise men… seeking aid and comfort at their hands.” Latimer saw this reliance on magic as a problem because it caused supposedly good Christians to turn their backs on God. The preacher had a point: in his day, there was a spell to solve nearly every problem, and a whole army of cunning folk willing to sell said spells to desperate clients. But Latimer was fighting a losing battle.

No matter how many sermons he, and others like him, dedicated to stamping such practices out, magic and mysticism would resurface in times of crisis. While Latimer despaired of Tudor people consulting cunning folk, the men and women themselves were using every method at their disposal to get through the day. One 16th century cunning woman, Joan Tyrry, consulted fairies to diagnose child illnesses. The 15th century vicar-cum-magician William Dardus found stolen goods by summoning spirits. The same year that Latimer complained, a servant named Joan Hall bought a spell to help her procure a “rich marriage.” As time went on, this became more acute in times of widespread danger: when crops failed or war broke out, the impulse to use magic got all the more powerful. As we will see, this is true of the modern day as much as it was the Early Modern era.

This belief in magic and the supernatural didn’t die out as time progressed: In fact, it survives into the present day. There is an old assumption that belief in magic faded away in the Enlightenment, shepherding a new age dominated by rational decision-making and scientific progress. It’s true that times have changed, but perhaps not as much as we might expect. Instead, it seems that when things get tough, we lapse into the same habits as our forebears.

The most striking example from recent times is the COVID-19 pandemic. As the new virus swept the globe, demand for psychics and fortune-tellers roe in tandem with infection rates. From the United States to Thailand , from India to the United Kingdom , people sought answers and comfort from supernatural sources while the world felt like it had turned upside down. The online directory Yelp reported a 74% increase in searches for mediums in 2020. Some psychics even confessed to turning away clients as they were unable to cope with the demand. People generally asked the same questions: about the health of themselves and their loved ones; whether they would survive financially, and when the chaos would end.

The same questions are asked in all times of stress, both personal and national. Google Trends shows searches for psychics peaked in the final weeks before the 2016 Brexit vote, and around key dates during the country’s exit from the European Union (there’s also a small but significant bump in searchers googling ‘money spell’). Mediums also saw an upsurge in business during the financial crash of 2008 (IBISWorld declared fortune-telling one of the few “recession proof” industries); and spiritualism and seances famously gained popularity during the First and Second World Wars. In my period of interest, there was a boom in astrology in 1640s England, when Britain was in the throes of civil war. Much like in modern spates of social upheaval, astrologers like the Londoner William Lillie were consulted about who might flounder and who survive, and when and how the trauma would end.

At first glance, turning to a medium can look like an act of surrender: of accepting that we are not the masters of our fates. But that is rarely the case. Rather, magic becomes one tool in our arsenal for coping. Knowing the future is one aspect of this; another is casting spells to bring about a desired outcome. We saw this happen in modern times with the “ Witches against Trump ” movement (and the prayer circles organised to counter the witches’ spells). What’s fascinating, though, is that those taking part in such rituals didn’t just rely on supernatural skills: they wove them into a wider blanket of action that encompassed things like campaigning and voting. This is an often overlooked aspect of magic—it’s not the same as mere wishful thinking. It is an active effort to take control of the situation, and as such most magical practitioners will use the supernatural alongside other methods to make their lives better. This is true of the past as well—Tyrry, the fairy healer, administered well-chosen herbs to her patients alongside her incantations; Dardus used his position as a priest to investigate his parishioners. Ultimately, magic has always been one tool among many in people’s arsenals to make life bearable.

Read More: What We Get Wrong About Manifesting

Of course, there is a darker side to magic in times of crisis. Difficult situations can bring out the best and worst in people, especially when fear sets in. Soldiers bought protective amulets during the English Civil War, but they also accused neighbours of malevolent witchcraft. The stress caused by the social divisions and trauma of the war led to the single biggest witch hunt in English history, with three hundred accused and over 100 executed. On this side of the Atlantic, the Salem Witch Trials saw over 200 people accused and at least 20 deaths. People’s fears during the COVID-19 pandemic also led to terrible acts: the United Nations reported an increase in ritualised murder as some people’s body parts were harvested for magical cures.

It's easy to think that we’re different to our ancestors. But when things go wrong, for good or ill, we still make room for magic in our lives. It’s one of several strategies people use to survive, and it is, in itself, not a bad thing. In fact, our reliance on magical thinking is something fundamentally human that deserves to be recognised. We are creatures who need hope and a feeling of control. Perhaps magic is just a mental and spiritual crutch—but it’s a surprisingly powerful and constant one.

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Stop Shouting Down the Women Going Off the Pill

As over-the-counter birth control hits shelves, more people are also expressing skepticism about hormonal contraceptives. They should be heard.

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Produced by ElevenLabs and News Over Audio (NOA) using AI narration.

P erhaps you’ve noticed something new at your local market. Opill, the first oral contraceptive approved by the FDA for over-the-counter use, began shipping to U.S. stores in March. It has no age restrictions and does not require a physician’s sign-off; you can now buy a three-month supply at Walmart or Target the same way you might pick up Tylenol or tampons or a six-pack of seltzer.

This is, without a doubt, a momentous development in the realm of reproductive health. In the post- Dobbs environment, in which access to abortion care has been severely restricted across the United States, easier access to contraceptives is significant. Yet Opill also debuts as more and more women, in public forums and in their physicians’ offices, are raising concerns about the effects of hormonal birth control on their physical and mental well-being—and are pushing back against the idea that pharmaceuticals are their best options for trying to prevent pregnancy.

For the past few years, the “Why women are going off the pill ” essay has become a staple of lifestyle journalism . A search for birth control on TikTok yields thousands of videos, many taking a negative stance on hormonal methods. Side effects are a common complaint: mood changes , headaches, irregular bleeding , lower libido —or, in some instances, more dangerous complications, such as blood clots . Many of the critiques note that women’s concerns have a history of being overlooked or dismissed by the medical establishment, and that women are still waiting for an improvement on the birth-control status quo.

Read: The Coming Birth-Control Revolution

In many spaces, this upsurge in discussion has been treated not with curiosity, but with contempt. Those airing dissatisfaction, or simply describing potential side effects, have been called antifeminist or accused of threatening other women’s birth-control access . Commentary critical of the pill has been dismissed as misinformation by mainstream news outlets—not always unfairly, as much of the material on social media can’t exactly be called reliable. (“Wellness” figures hawking fertility-awareness “coaching” abound, as do right-wing influencers with barely concealed agendas.)

But at the same time, many people online are recounting real stories of real symptoms, and expressing legitimate qualms about the options they’ve been given. Their distrust is not unfounded. Kate Clancy, a biological anthropologist and professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and the author of Period: The Real Story of Menstruation , told me that women “are very often subject to medical betrayal—to having really awful experiences in a medical context.” Clancy said she was “glad there’s improved access.” But if you already harbor mistrust, “if you already have reasons to say, ‘Wow, these pharmaceuticals were not really made for me,’ then over time I understand why people arrive at a place where they are dissatisfied with current options.”

This is where the tenor and content of the discourse can be vexing: The public takedowns of skeptical women risk silencing the important conversations people ought to be able to have in service of meeting their health-care needs. If women’s overall betterment is the goal, then narrowly prioritizing access—celebrating a development such as Opill while shouting down the women simply trying to talk about their experiences—is counterproductive. To address reproductive health in full, taking into account questions about rights, responsibilities, and the physical and social ramifications of pharmaceutical solutions, requires a wider lens.

A few years ago , I was prescribed an oral contraceptive after a conversation with my doctor that could most generously be described as extremely brief. In the month I took the pill, I was overtaken by a debilitating brain fog that felt like a loss of self. I was irritable, snappish. I made my living as a professional columnist, yet suddenly I felt bad at writing—not in the sense of the usual scribbler’s procrastination, but in that I genuinely couldn’t generate ideas or string together words. I contemplated leaving my job . I cried a lot.

I realized the cause of this identity shift only after my prescription ran out and my regular personality snapped back into place, seemingly overnight. I hadn’t turned into a failure. Hormonal birth control had derailed me.

The pill is something of a catchall term, used to describe a variety of oral contraceptives that make the uterus inhospitable to pregnancy and often prevent ovulation. “Combination” pills, the most common type—and the kind I was prescribed—contain synthetic estrogen and progestin (a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone); “mini-pills,” of which Opill is one, contain progestin alone. Early versions of oral contraceptives had extremely high doses of both hormones, leading to sometimes severe side effects. Newer versions, with more carefully calibrated doses, have lessened, though not eliminated, those risks.

Today, oral contraceptives are the second-most popular birth-control method for women in the United States, after permanent sterilization . Fourteen percent of girls and women ages 15 to 49 use them, according to a federal survey from 2017 to 2019 , the latest data available; nearly one in five American girls between the ages of 15 and 19 are on the pill. Over the decades, several studies have found that many people who start taking the pill will eventually go off it because the side effects are so intolerable. Concerns about side effects are also frequently named as a reason women resist taking their “preferred contraceptive method” in the first place.

It is not a stretch to imagine that young women taking an over-the-counter pill, unmonitored, could be left dealing with symptoms they might not be prepared for—without the recourse or the wherewithal to ask questions, or without the knowledge that what they’re experiencing is worthy of concern. Sarah E. Hill, a psychology professor at Texas Christian University and the author of This Is Your Brain on Birth Control: How the Pill Changes Everything , told me she’s in favor of removing barriers to access and supports Opill coming to market. But “I worry about it,” she said. “For everybody, but I worry about it most intensely for adolescents, whose brains are still developing.” Recent studies have found evidence of an increased risk of depression in some of the youngest users of hormonal birth control, and Hill said it troubles her to think about “young women who are most vulnerable to getting these kinds of side effects going on this medication and not being watched.”

Nearly all medications come with potential negative side effects, and we still use them as tools. You can get liver damage from taking too much Tylenol, but in the right amounts, the drug can lower a worrying fever. And in the case of birth control, of course, any adverse effects must be weighed against the life-changing alternative: becoming pregnant, one of the riskiest undertakings many women will ever experience. Forty-six percent of pregnancies in the U.S. are unintended , one of the highest rates among wealthy nations, and the rate tends to be highest among low-income populations and younger women. Those are the same populations most likely to take advantage of a pill that has no age restrictions and does not require a visit with a health-care provider for a prescription and subsequent renewals.

My own disturbing experience was, I know, not a universal one (though there is at least one high-quality study, of more than 1 million Danish women and girls, suggesting a linkage between hormonal birth control— especially progestin-only formulations —and higher rates of depression). And some people decide that even significant side effects are worth it when they desperately want to prevent pregnancy and hormonal birth control is the only, or the most readily accessible, option. Here is where Opill could be transformative—imagine a woman being pressured into pregnancy who can now buy birth control without alerting her partner, or a working mother who doesn’t have the time or resources to meet with a prescribing doctor but can walk to the nearest CVS.

But I do wonder: If I had started taking hormonal birth control unsupervised, as a teen or a young adult, would I have spent my entire adulthood believing my personality to be different than it was? What would that have meant for me—and the trajectory of my life?

I t would be an understatement to say that women have put up with a lot in the name of reproductive health, including many discomforts and inconveniences that men have refused to endure, and that the conventions of medical research have allowed them to avoid. This is not to say that efforts have not been made to get men to do their part.

Andrea Tone, a medical historian and professor at McGill University, told me that in the 1960s and early ’70s, “activists clamored for a contraceptive pill for men so that they, too, could share its responsibilities and risks.” Clinical trials for male hormonal birth control began as early as the 1970s . But a 2016 study noted that a trial for a hormonal injection was canceled after men reported side effects , including acne and depression—never mind that for decades, women have endured these afflictions and worse.

Read: New Male Contraceptives Could Be Infuriatingly Pain-Free and Easy

In a recent Atlantic article , my colleague Katherine J. Wu detailed current research and potential innovations in male-managed birth control, noting that although the list of contraceptive options available to women has lengthened since the introduction of the pill 64 years ago, most of the changes have been incremental, and women are still left to deal with a wide variety of side effects and inconveniences. In contrast, the medical system seems to bend over backwards to ensure male users are comfortable: Experts have said they doubt that the side effects typical of the female contraceptives on the market would be deemed acceptable by evaluators of the clinical trials of male birth-control methods.

Easier access to the pill eliminates real barriers. But in a medical industry that has long centered male comfort when it comes to reproductive health, an undue burden will always be placed on the people capable of becoming pregnant. As Tone put it, “Making pill-based hormonal contraception available OTC normalizes birth control as a female responsibility and, possibly, even an expectation.”

That expectation may very well continue to serve as an excuse for overprescribing, for overlooking women’s concerns, and for failing to hold accountable a health-care system that has historically not served women well. Ease of access is “a really good thing,” Clancy, the University of Illinois professor, told me. “But there are things in addition to contraception we need to be doing to improve the lives of people who can get pregnant, like broader social infrastructure to improve their care.” Instead, she said, “we just choose to kick the can down to the microsolution and make it about individuals making decisions.”

This is where the knee-jerk pushback to discussion of hormonal birth control’s potential downsides becomes harmful. To support individuals, we need more conversation, not less. It should be possible to celebrate increased access to birth control and to validate women’s negative experiences. It should be possible to praise Opill and to push back against the unfair assumption that women must bear the material and physical costs of contraception.

In a 2023 survey of people assigned female at birth, conducted by the reproductive-justice nonprofit Power to Decide, almost a quarter of respondents ages 15 to 19 said that they lacked sufficient information to decide which birth-control method was right for them—a gap that speaks to a larger problem with the American approach to reproductive health. In an ideal world, the health-care providers I spoke with told me, doctors would spend more time with patients, health literacy would be higher, and reproductive responsibility would be shared between women and men. To create such a world would require not only a cultural shift but also a remaking of the American way of providing care—a not-impossible task, but a much heavier lift than selling a pill.

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Elon Musk Ramps Up Anti-Biden Posts on X

The billionaire owner of X has increasingly been using his social media platform to criticize President Biden for his health and immigration policies, according to a New York Times analysis.

By Kate Conger and Ryan Mac

Last month, Elon Musk posted on X that President Biden “obviously barely knows what’s going on.”

“He is just a tragic front for a far left political machine,” Mr. Musk wrote. It was the 29th time this year that he had posted about the president on X, formerly known as Twitter, which Mr. Musk bought in 2022.

Mr. Musk has steadily ramped up his criticism of Mr. Biden as the campaign season heats up before the November presidential election. Mr. Musk has posted about Mr. Biden on X at least seven times a month since January, attacking the president for everything from his age to his policies on immigration and health. Before that, he posted about Mr. Biden twice in December and not at all in November, according to a New York Times analysis. In all, Mr. Musk had posted nearly 40 times about Mr. Biden this year, compared with about 30 times for all of last year.

In contrast, Mr. Musk had posted more than 20 times on X this year about former President Donald J. Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee. In those posts, Mr. Musk defended Mr. Trump, arguing that he is a victim of media and prosecutorial bias in the criminal cases that the former president faces .

Mr. Musk’s posts about this year’s presidential race stand out because he is signaling a willingness to tip the political scales as the owner of an influential social media platform, something that no other leader of a social media firm has done. And Mr. Musk exerts outsize influence over the political discourse on X, where he regularly posts to his 184 million followers.

Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s founder, has shied away from endorsing candidates and rarely posts political content on Facebook or Instagram. Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s chief, and Sundar Pichai, Google’s chief, have also not posted political commentary on their companies’ social media platforms, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Bhaskar Chakravorti, the dean of global business at the Fletcher School at Tufts University, said Mr. Musk’s outspokenness on his political views could have consequences.

“He has ownership and the largest follower base, and he is a much-larger-than-life character with almost godlike status” on one of the largest platforms for political discussion, Mr. Chakravorti said. “If he was to really come out and support a candidate and put his weight against it, it could have an impact.”

The White House, the Biden campaign, Mr. Musk and X did not respond to requests for comment.

By bringing an ideological bent to X, Mr. Musk mirrors what media moguls like Rupert Murdoch, whose empire includes Fox News and The New York Post, have done by helping shape their outlets’ coverage and broader political discourse, said Sarah Kreps, a professor and director of the Tech Policy Institute at Cornell University.

Mr. Murdoch “has a particular ideological valence and most people know what that is, and that permeates through his different media outlets,” she said. “People can opt into those or opt out,” similar to X. Some users — put off by Mr. Musk’s ideological bent — have migrated to competing social media platforms, she said.

Still, Mr. Musk is unlikely to tip November’s vote, social media experts said. Many of his followers already agree with his political stance, they said, and the platform has shifted right since his acquisition.

Mr. Musk has become more publicly supportive of right-wing candidates and views in recent years. As recently as 2022, he described himself as a centrist and a reluctant Democrat. He said he voted for Mr. Biden hesitantly in 2020. Political giving records show that Mr. Musk has not made national campaign contributions since 2020, when he gave to Republican and Democratic Senate candidates.

But in June 2022, Mr. Musk said he had voted for a Republican candidate for the first time in a special election for Texas’ 34th Congressional District. In the national midterm elections that November, he urged voters to vote Republican in congressional races since a Democrat was in the White House.

That evolution continued last May when Mr. Musk hosted a buggy audio stream on X to announce and endorse Florida’s governor, Ron DeSantis, for the Republican presidential nomination. Mr. Musk has not made another endorsement.

Mr. Musk has also repeatedly used X to vocally support right-wing politicians around the world, including Javier Milei, the president of Argentina; Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil; and Narendra Modi of India. He has then tried to use that good will to lobby for advantages in those countries for his other businesses, including SpaceX, a rocket company, and Tesla, which makes electric cars.

Mr. Musk has courted Mr. Trump, who was booted from X when it was still known as Twitter, after the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the Capitol. After buying Twitter in 2022, Mr. Musk moved quickly to restore Mr. Trump’s account, although the former president has posted only once on the platform since then.

Even though Mr. Musk has not endorsed Mr. Trump, he has had several conversations with the former president. In March, Mr. Musk and Republican donors met with Mr. Trump in Palm Beach, Fla. , as the former president sought election donations.

Afterward, Mr. Musk posted on X that he was “not donating money to either candidate for US President.”

Mr. Musk has been sympathetic to Mr. Trump in his posts. “The more unfair the attacks on Trump seem to the public, the higher he will rise in the polls,” Mr. Musk wrote last week.

Mr. Musk has long been critical of Mr. Biden. In 2021, the billionaire slammed Mr. Biden for his decisions on electric vehicle promotion and subsidies, most of which favored unionized U.S. auto manufacturers. Tesla, where Mr. Musk is chief executive, has resisted efforts to unionize its manufacturing.

“My preference for the 2024 presidency is someone sensible and centrist,” Mr. Musk posted in November 2022, weeks after buying Twitter — and just as he brought Mr. Trump back onto the platform. He added that he had been hopeful about the Biden administration, but was “disappointed so far.”

In January, Mr. Musk ramped up his critiques of Mr. Biden. He posted seven times about the president that month, primarily regarding immigration policies, just as the Biden administration sued Texas over a law that allowed local law enforcement to arrest migrants.

“I cannot see myself voting for Biden,” Mr. Musk said, accusing the president of “facilitating illegal immigration.”

In February, Mr. Musk said Mr. Biden supported lax immigration restrictions because they would give him and the Democratic Party an advantage in the November election.

“Biden’s strategy is very simple: 1. Get as many illegals in the country as possible. 2. Legalize them to create a permanent majority — a one-party state,” Mr. Musk wrote. As the number of people crossing into the United States has reached record levels , Mr. Biden has called for a stricter crackdown on immigration and accused Republicans of stymieing his efforts.

Since then, Mr. Musk has escalated his commentary on Mr. Biden, posting 12 times in March and complaining the media is a “Biden cheering squad.”

Last month, at a dinner party in Los Angeles, Mr. Musk along with other billionaires, including Mr. Murdoch and the venture capitalist Peter Thiel, discussed how to oppose Mr. Biden’s re-election, according to a person familiar with the event, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. The dinner was earlier reported by Puck .

During an interview with the former CNN host Don Lemon in March, Mr. Musk said that he would continue voicing his opinion but didn’t want “to put a thumb on the scale monetarily that is significant,” and that he might endorse a candidate during “the final stretch.”

”I’m leaning away from Biden," he said, laughing.

Kate Conger is a technology reporter based in San Francisco. She can be reached at [email protected]. More about Kate Conger

Ryan Mac covers corporate accountability across the global technology industry. More about Ryan Mac

The World of Elon Musk

The billionaire’s portfolio includes the world’s most valuable automaker, an innovative rocket company and plenty of drama..

Neuralink: Elon Musk’s first human experiment with a computerized brain device developed significant flaws, but the subject Noland Arbaugh, who is paralyzed and the first patient to take part in the human clinical trial , has few regrets.

Wooing World Leaders: Musk has fostered relationships with a constellation of right-wing heads of state — including Argentina’s Javier Milei and India’s Narendra Modi — to push his own politics and expand his business empire .

Tesla: Musk has gutted the part of the carmaking company responsible for building charging stations for electric vehicles , sowing uncertainty about the future of the largest and most reliable U.S. charging network.

X: An Australian court extended an injunction ordering the social media platform to remove videos depicting the recent stabbing of a bishop , setting the country’s judicial system up for a clash with Musk.

A $47 Billion Pay Deal: Despite   facing criticism that Tesla is overly beholden to Musk , its board of directors said that the company would essentially give him everything he wanted, including the biggest pay package in corporate history.