In comparing the techniques used by Emma Lazarus in her poem "The New Colossus" and Sonia Nazario in her editorial about children escaping from Honduras, it is evident that both writers employ vivid descriptions to convey the significance of the places being referenced. However, while Lazarus portrays the Statue of Liberty as a symbol of hope and freedom, Nazario depicts the children's homes in Honduras as dire and dangerous.
Lazarus uses rich imagery to describe the Statue of Liberty, emphasizing its welcoming and inclusive nature. For instance, she writes, "A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame / Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name / Mother of Exiles." These descriptions portray Lady Liberty as a powerful and nurturing figure who offers refuge and freedom to those seeking a better life. Moreover, Lazarus mentions the "golden door" that the statue represents, suggesting that America is a land of opportunities and equality. The overall tone of the poem is one of optimism and hope, emphasizing the transformative power of the United States upon arrival.
On the other hand, Nazario employs a contrasting tone and imagery to describe the homes that the children are escaping in Honduras. She describes these places as "hovels made of tree branches, black plastic tarps and if they're lucky, walls made of adobe." This portrayal highlights the poverty and unstable conditions they endure. Nazario also mentions the rampant violence, mentioning that "Honduras has the highest murder rate in the world outside of war zones," showcasing the dangerous environment that these children are desperate to flee from.
In addition to their differing descriptions of the physical environment, Lazarus and Nazario also employ distinct tones in their writings. Lazarus's tone is one of admiration and pride, as she celebrates the United States as a sanctuary for those seeking freedom. Her use of phrases like "ancient lands" evoke a sense of history and tradition. On the contrary, Nazario's tone is more urgent and sympathetic. She appeals to the readers' emotions by recounting the heartbreaking stories of these children, emphasizing the dire situation they are escaping.
Overall, while both Lazarus and Nazario employ descriptive techniques to convey the significance of the places being referenced, they differ in their portrayal of the lands in question. Lazarus's poem describes the Statue of Liberty and America as symbols of hope and opportunity, while Nazario's editorial depicts the children's homes in Honduras as perilous and oppressive.
Compare and contrast the techniques that Lazarus uses to describe The Statue of Liberty and what it represents, to the way that Nazario describes the "home" that some children in Honduras are in need of escaping. In other words, how does the land described in Lazarus' poem compare to or differ from the land being fled by the children in Nazario's editorial? Use evidence from both texts in your response.
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