Summary Of Why Literature Matters By Dana Gioia

Stepping outside, a person in the United States can instantly see how prevalent a role technology has in our lives. From the smart phones that connect people globally trough a few touches on the screen, to the airplanes roaring across the sky, the astounding capabilities and convenience that technology offers is unmatched. In “Why literature matters”, an article from the New York Times Corporation by Dana Gioia, Gioia explores how living in the high-tech 21st century has unfortunately deteriorated the percentage of Americans who read literature. Gioia is able to sway his audience to devote more time to the simple task of reading works of intellectual value through fearful diction and compelling consequences associated with being illiterate.

Through his article, Gioia implements fearful diction to express his concern that America’s future is in the hands of those who are less informed and comprehending of situations; economic and social. By labeling the diminished percentage of those who read as “worrisome” and “troubling” Gioia is able to convey the negativity of the lack of literacy. Upon reading the article, and mulling over how Gioia feels about America’s current reading levels, a reader is inclined to acknowledge that illiteracy is detrimental to American society and something that needs

By exposing the domino effect of illiteracy into other large aspects of American society such as electing leaders, and the business world, Gioia succeeds in alarming the audience to the seriousness of the issue and instilling a sense of urgency to mend the problem. Although the facts alone are eye-opening to any reader, by backing the facts up with big name organizations like “The National Association of Manufacturers” and the “National Conference of State Legislatures”, Gioia is able to cement his argument and therefore be more empowered in persuading his audience on the importance of