A good work of literature, whether a story, poem, novel, or essay, always focuses on a problem. In her essay, “Bad Eyes,” Erin McGraw focused on the problem of her myopia and its effects on her life. (You could say that the primary rhetorical modes she employs are narrative and cause and effect.) While McGraw says that the subject of vision “veers almost uncontrollably toward metaphor,” she is determined to “to take it literally” (1). However, as she explores the problematic effects of her poor vision, McGraw begins to realize that they go beyond merely not seeing objects in the physical world. For this assignment, write an essay in which you describe three or four of the more serious problems McGraw developed as a result of her myopia. Focus on three or four of the numerous revelatory moments in her narrative that are of most interest to you. In other words, your thesis should answer the following question: How would you characterize a few moments in “Bad Eyes” in which McGraw comes to learn or “see” something she hadn’t noticed before about herself, or about life in general?
Remember, your thesis statement and topic sentences should mention McGraw and/or her essay in some way. In your conclusion, try to express what you get out of this essay—in other words, did McGraw’s essay help you to “see” something, even if only momentarily, from a different point of “view?”
Your essay should demonstrate that you have read McGraw carefully and thoughtfully. This will require paraphrasing as well as quoting.
Audience: For the purpose of this essay, assume your audience to be university-educated adults.
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