Close Reading #5

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/11/opinion/sunday/americans-and-god.html?src=me&ref=general

     Eric Weiner (lolz)  utilizes syntax well in this article. He is constantly using commas to break down his sentences into easily digestible bits, especially in sentences that are critical to the meaning he is attempting to convey. For much the same reason as the commas, Weiner frequently utilizes very short sentences such as " He laughs, often and well." and "And for all of us." These short sentences come, by in large, at the end of paragraphs and thoughts in order to provide extra emphasis.
    Detail is used in this piece very well. The author mentions Steve Jobs, who is a mythic figure in America right now, as a way to describe what is needed in the religious world. This is an excellent detail, and it strengthens his piece because it strikes a chord with exactly the type of people his trying to reach out too. He is trying to appeal to the "Nones" who tend to be younger Americans, who are increasingly disillusioned with contemporary religious attitudes and politics. Another reason this was such a strong detail was that Jobs is known for being a pioneer of devices like the Ipod and other items near and dear to the hearts of the youngest generations. Weiner then balances his argument by mentioning the Dalia Lama, someone whose significance is well established among America's grey beards. The author's use of detail effectively endears him to all types of readers, especially his target audience, and strengthens his meaning.
     Weiner's diction matches the personality type of the people he seeks to describe and empower in his article. He uses words like "drifted" and "crisis" to describe the sort of disconnect a growing number of Americans feel for religious attitudes and institutions. He then makes excellent choices when he chooses words to describe a grudge some have religion, feeling that the focus is on "judging" and "smiting" from an "angry" God. But then he uses words like "celebrate" and "encourages", providing a youthful optimism. His diction excellently frames the opinion of the "Nones" and helps reinforce the intended message of his piece.