Writing is Easy by Steve Martin

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Literary Elements
Steve Martin employed a couple of literary elements in most of his works. These elements helped him to explain, inform or entertain the readers. Many considered him more of a comedian rather than a write due to his style of writing. Steve preferred using a satirical intertwined with allusions. He also employs ethos as a rhetorical device in most of his works. This essay is focused on Martin’s use of allusions, ethos, and tone to inform, entertain or explain something to the readers.
Martin alludes to both Socrates and Millan Kundera to show the disparity regarding thoughts abbreviation, change of details or even omissions. Martin is trying to prove how it is challenging to differentiate between a real author, a comedian or a philosopher. Although Socrates was not a writer, Martin often refers to him as a great author. On the other hand, Martin managed to shorten a piece of article written by Kundera using 13 words alone (Martin 1). Martin uses this to entertain his readers and make his works lively and engaging.
One of the most common rhetorical devices that Martin preferred to use was the ethos. Martin never tired of employing this element in most of his works. His primary motive was to explain something or a concept to readers. Martin had sufficient knowledge regarding the various literary styles that writers can use when writing (Martin 1). However, he repeatedly criticizes modern day writers on claims that they do not perceive writing realistically.

Martin had diverging thoughts regarding the style of writing, and the most suited approached to reach out to target audience effectively.
Martin showcases the mastery of tone with his lighthearted and mocking tone. Martin used these two tones interchangeably depending on the content of the work and the target audience. His main motive is to inform readers about the writing has transformed over the years (Martin 1). Modern writers have a unique approach to writing which is dependent on the creativity of the author and the message he/she intend to pass to the audience. Martin advises on the importance of employing a tone that aligns with the primary theme of a text.
In conclusion, Martin explains the importance of these three elements in any work. In his essay, “Writing is Easy,” Martin satirizes modern writers because of their idealistic style of writing. Martin wants modern day writers to visualize their works from a realistic viewpoint. Readers want something that they can relate to the contemporary world. Martin’s style of writing is concise and thoughtful of all potential readers who may desire to read what he has written. Martin uses allusions, tone, and ethos to inform, entertain and explain something to writers.
Work Cited
Martin, Steve. “Writing is Easy.” N.d.