Compare and contrast the techniques that Lazarus uses to describe The Statue of Liberty and what it represents, to the way that Nazario describes the "home" that some children in Honduras are in need of escaping. In other words, how does the land described in Lazarus' poem compare to or differ from the land being fled by the children in Nazario's editorial? Use evidence from both texts in your response.
In comparing the techniques used by Emma Lazarus in her poem "The New Colossus" and Sonia Nazario in her editorial about children escaping from Honduras, it is evident that both writers employ vivid descriptions to convey the significance of the places being referenced. However, while Lazarus portrays the Statue of Liberty as a symbol of hope and freedom, Nazario depicts the children's homes in Honduras as dire and dangerous.
Lazarus uses rich imagery to describe the Statue of Liberty, emphasizing its welcoming and inclusive nature. For instance, she writes, "A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame / Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name / Mother of Exiles." These descriptions portray Lady Liberty as a powerful and nurturing figure who offers refuge and freedom to those seeking a better life. Moreover, Lazarus mentions the "golden door" that the statue represents, suggesting that America is a land of opportunities and equality. The overall tone of the poem is one of optimism and hope, emphasizing the transformative power of the United States upon arrival.
On the other hand, Nazario employs a contrasting tone and imagery to describe the homes that the children are escaping in Honduras. She describes these places as "hovels made of tree branches, black plastic tarps and if they're lucky, walls made of adobe." This portrayal highlights the poverty and unstable conditions they endure. Nazario also mentions the rampant violence, mentioning that "Honduras has the highest murder rate in the world outside of war zones," showcasing the dangerous environment that these children are desperate to flee from.
In addition to their differing descriptions of the physical environment, Lazarus and Nazario also employ distinct tones in their writings. Lazarus's tone is one of admiration and pride, as she celebrates the United States as a sanctuary for those seeking freedom. Her use of phrases like "ancient lands" evoke a sense of history and tradition. On the contrary, Nazario's tone is more urgent and sympathetic. She appeals to the readers' emotions by recounting the heartbreaking stories of these children, emphasizing the dire situation they are escaping.
Overall, while both Lazarus and Nazario employ descriptive techniques to convey the significance of the places being referenced, they differ in their portrayal of the lands in question. Lazarus's poem describes the Statue of Liberty and America as symbols of hope and opportunity, while Nazario's editorial depicts the children's homes in Honduras as perilous and oppressive.
In Lazarus' poem "The New Colossus," she describes The Statue of Liberty as a symbol of refuge for immigrants and conveys the idea of hope and freedom. On the other hand, Sonia Nazario's editorial "Children of the Drug Wars" depicts the land in Honduras as a place of violence and despair, from which children are desperately seeking to escape. Let's compare and contrast the techniques used by Lazarus and Nazario to describe these contrasting lands.
Lazarus employs vivid and positive imagery in her depiction of The Statue of Liberty and the land it represents. She describes the statue as a "mighty woman" with a "torch" and a "beacon-hand" that "glows" and "imprisoned lightning." These images convey strength, enlightenment, and freedom. Lazarus further emphasizes the welcoming nature of the statue by calling it the "Mother of Exiles," reassuring immigrants that they will be accepted and protected in this new land. The tone of the poem is uplifting and hopeful, aiming to inspire those seeking a better life.
On the other hand, Nazario paints a stark and grim picture of the land that children in Honduras are trying to escape. She describes it as a place plagued by drug wars, violence, and poverty. Nazario states that Honduras has one of the highest murder rates in the world and highlights the gruesome nature of the violence, mentioning decapitations and bodies found in ditches. She provides statistics to support her claims, illustrating the reality of the dangerous environment these children are fleeing. The tone of Nazario's editorial is somber and urgent, urging readers to understand the dire situation these children face and the necessity for their escape.
While Lazarus focuses on the hopeful and promising nature of the land represented by The Statue of Liberty, Nazario highlights the desperation that drives children to leave their homeland. Lazarus emphasizes the freedom and opportunity that the immigrants will find in America, portraying it as a haven for those seeking a better life. Nazario, however, shows how the land in Honduras is marked by violence, instability, and lack of opportunities, motivating children to risk their lives in search of safety and a chance to thrive.
In summary, the techniques used by Lazarus and Nazario to describe contrasting lands differ greatly. Lazarus uses positive and uplifting imagery to portray The Statue of Liberty as a symbol of hope and freedom, while Nazario depicts the land in Honduras as a place of violence and despair, from which children are desperately seeking to escape.