G.O. P.A.T.E.L

The main purpose of Orwell's essay is to show the reader how the English language can be, and is often, misused in everyday writing. One of his main points is that when a writer is trying to describe something he/she will often water down their statement because of the all the overused metaphors and descriptive words in their writing. He blames this mainly on poor habit patterns of the modern English writer and say that, if practiced, quality and truely descriptive English writing is achievable. Another main point that Orwell makes is that poor writing is often used in politics to disguise the true meaning/purpose of a statement. I find this to be accurate because it seems like politicians will sometimes hide behind long, vague statements to avoid exposing the truth of what they are actually saying.

This reading is very useful because in this unit we will be writing a lengthy argument paper. Orwell's advice on writing will help when writing the paper. I personally will try to not use the metaphors and other words he says are overused. I think by reading this essay it will cause writers to think more carefully about the words and metaphors they use in their writings instead of just plugging in descriptive words that might not even accurately describe what they are talking about.