alaysis of `The Atlantic Widens` by T.R. Reid

The essay `The Atlantic Widens ' is a timely and engaging reflection on the complex relationship between the world 's only superpower , the Unites States , and its potential rival , the European Union . The essay has a powerful appeal and is marked by stylistic perfection . Three literary devices are utilized with mastery , namely irony , binary opposition , and symbolism

The essay is not only ironic it is self-ironic . The narrator , himself an American , shares an insight into the life in Europe and the experience of being ridiculed and derided at every turn . However , the

author laughs together with Europeans and acknowledges many faults of Americans that make them an easy target of offensive jokes . The author admits that some Americans are ignorant of the rest of the world and excessively proud of their country . Reid 's openness about his experience in Europe makes him more credible as a narrator furthermore , it generates sympathy towards Americans who have to suffer from negative stereotyping , everywhere they go

The second powerful device used in the essay is the binary opposition The relationship between the U .S . and Europe is described as a classical love-hate drama : although Europeans despise American ways , it does not prevent them from enjoying many elements of American culture , ranging from television series to food and fashion . This dichotomy uncovers the hypocrisy of European views on their transatlantic partner

Finally , symbolism is another narrative element that makes the essay so appealing . The author refers to 9 /11 as a point of unification of the entire Western civilization . The terrorist attack on New York serves as a symbol of compassion and support Europeans expressed for their American counterparts . For these three reasons , the essay is a wonderful piece of publicism , of interest to both Americans and Europeans who want to get a deeper understanding of their mysterious love-hate relationship . References

Reid , T . R . The Atlantic Widens ' Wilson Quarterly 28 .4 (2004 13-23...