Analysis

This analysis of the article “Binge Drinking is Good for You” by Jeremy Clarkson is derived from the rhetorical pentagram model.

In what follows, we will look at the topics of the speech - drinking, alcoholism, and social norms - exploring the way the writer puts them into context and argues for his views.

We will present the writer, Jeremy Clarkson, looking at his reputation and background as well as the way he presents himself within the article.

We will consider who the intended readers of the article are, focusing on the audience of the newspaper where it was published, as well as the potential readers whom the writer directs his arguments at.

We will examine the language of the speech, looking at the informal choice of words and the mocking tone, as well as at rhetorical devices and forms of appeal and how they are linked to the writer’s intentions.

We will consider the circumstances of the speech, looking at the context in which it was published and the issues in society the writer argues against (public campaigns against drinking).

We will discuss the writer’s intention with the article: Criticising those who try to establish rigid norms of behaviour in society and convincing the audience that the real problem is not occasional binge drinking, but rather actual alcoholism.

You can find the full analysis in the next pages.