ms. sue for the article an ode to user friendly pencil i need to write thematic statement, but i not sure what to exactly say about it, cause its just about the author being ironic and making a point.

Thematic statement-- how about something like this?

The author makes a convincing argument that a pencil is more efficient than a computer.

Yes, the title is ironic because odes are written for heroes.

Your friend is right about those passages being ironic.

Does it make sense to spend money to make more money? My computer hasn't brought me much money in the last 10 years or so.

It's ironic because we don't usually think of a pencil as an old friend.

Pencils are made in British Columbia, while computers are made in foreign countries. Buying pencils provides employment for local people.

thanks very much ms. sue:)

i still need a little help with the irony part, like im kind of confused with irony. by being ironic the author mean opposite of what she say?

there be no irony in this passage right?

compared to a computer, a pencil takes up far less space on a desk and it can be utilized in a car, bathroom, or telephone booth without the aid of batteries. You can even use one during an electrical storm. Pencils don't cause eye strain and no one has ever screamed, after four hours of creative endeavour, "The pencil----ate my story"

also ms. sue about thematic statement? don't it have to be about irony? because i writing paragraph on irony? i have to write thematic and thesis statement.

The ironic part is that the author is right -- but it is not what the reader expects. Obviously, those of us who use a computer don't even begin to compare it with a pencil.

oh that make much sense,thanks ms sue :) also do that paragraph up above have any irony in it? because author be right in that but not what we expect.

for thematic statement, it have to be a global statement that not mention specifics from the story, but generalizes accurately and comphrensively about the story's main meaning. i still not understand though how to write it, because it have to be ironic don't it?

How about --

Sometimes the simplest tool is the best.

thanks very much ms. sue :) i like that one :) and for thesis statement i mention the article and say author show how something so simple can be so much more useful than ?

You're very welcome, Mohammad.

Yes, your idea for a thesis statement is good.

When writing a thematic statement about the article "An Ode to User-Friendly Pencil," consider the author's use of irony and their overall message. To do this, you can follow these steps:

1. Read and analyze the article carefully to identify the main point or message the author is trying to convey. Take note of any instances of irony.
2. Consider the author's tone and purpose in using irony. Is it to make a point, highlight a contradiction, or spark reflection in the readers?
3. Identify the themes or ideas that are present throughout the article. Look for recurring motifs or ideas.
4. Craft a thematic statement that summarizes the main theme or message of the article, while also addressing the use of irony. A possible example could be: "In 'An Ode to User-Friendly Pencil,' the author employs irony as a tool to critique our overreliance on technology and highlight the simplicity and value of traditional tools."

Regarding your question about the title of the article, "An Ode to User-Friendly Pencil," it does appear to be ironic. Odes are typically dedicated to important people or heroes, but in this case, the author is humorously elevating the status of a pencil, a seemingly ordinary and unremarkable object. This irony adds a humorous twist to the title and sets the tone for the rest of the article.

Now let's address your friend's observations about the ironic passages:

1. "I couldn't figure out how spending $3000 on a piece of molded plastic was going to make me wealthier." - This passage carries irony because nowadays, computers are commonly used tools for work, and the expectation is that investing in one would be financially beneficial. The author's remark highlights the absurdity of such an expensive purchase.

2. "My computer experience has forced me to spend a lot more time with an old friend, the pencil." - This passage might not contain overt irony. However, it implies a contrast between the advanced technology of a computer and the simplicity of a pencil. The author might be suggesting that despite relying on computers, returning to basics can have its benefits.

3. "You don't have to ask for a bank loan to buy a pencil." - This passage is indeed ironic because it contrasts the low cost of pencils with the significant expenses associated with obtaining a bank loan. The exaggeration of the cost disparity adds playful irony.

4. "Buying pencils, you create employment and prosperity." - This passage also contains irony. While the statement itself seems straight forward and logical, it contrasts with the prevailing belief that investing in technology, such as computers, is what drives employment and prosperity. The author highlights the overlooked value and significance of a simple pencil.

Remember, when analyzing irony or any literary device, it's important to consider the author's intent and the effect it has on the overall message of the article.