Question

Study the editorial cartoon by John Branch.

A couple are standing together. The woman sees a blowing leaf and says "Fall is in the air." Plastic bags are flying around the man, and he says "So are a few other things."

What is the cartoonist's purpose in this cartoon?

to show readers what type of weather they can expect to experience in autumn
to persuade readers that plastic bags negatively affect people and the environment
to convince readers that leaves are just as annoying as plastic bags
to tell readers that they should be happy about fall and not annoyed by it

Answer 1

to persuade readers that plastic bags negatively affect people and the environment

Explanation: the cartoon contrasts the pleasant idea of "fall" (leaves in the air) with the unpleasant reality of plastic bags also blowing around, calling attention to pollution and its negative impact.