The reading under review is a 2010 essay, Only Disconnect, written by Gary Shteyngart for The New York Times. Humorously and brilliantly, the author brings the dehumanization, disconnection, and loss of identity facilitated by modern technology to the forefront. The essay is rhetorically effective and relays a clear and believable message. The author establishes his credibility and effortlessly allows readers to relate to his experiences. Furthermore, Shteyngart appeals to the reader’s feelings, imagination, beliefs, and values. Overall, Only Disconnect is a powerful piece of writing that everyone should read to evaluate their connection to their phones and their disconnection from society.
The credibility of the author helps make the essay effective and allows readers to compare their own experiences with his. From the salesperson’s pitch in the Apple Store, checking the location of the nearest restaurants, and forgetting to read the books on one’s list, the author’s experiences are nearly universal (Shteyngart). It is easy for readers to relate to Shteyngart as they likely heard the same sales pitch, relied on their phones for directions, and forfeited their more time-consuming hobbies to short-term online pleasures. Thus, the writing effectively builds a strong connection with the audience.
Moreover, Shteyngart appeals to the reader’s feelings and arouses their imagination by describing his dream of leaving the techno-fugue state and connecting with people around him. The imagery utilized by the author is vague and precise at the same time, with him imagining a getaway in upstate New York with friends (Shteyngart). They are eating together, talking, drinking, and enjoying each other company, with phones being nothing but useless pieces of plastic in their pockets (Shteyngart). Shteyngart cleverly employs the imagery of people connecting over food and drinks, as it is a nearly universal experience much cherished by many. Thus, the author appeals to the feelings roused by such get-togethers to show how technology plays little role in genuine human connections.
In summary, Only Disconnect by Gary Shteyngart is one of The New York Times’ most compelling pieces. The essay is rhetorically strong, with the author seamlessly building a connection with readers and establishing his credibility while appealing to their feelings and values. As the world is quickly being taken over by technology, it is crucial to assess its impact on people’s everyday lives and how connecting with one’s phone leads to disconnecting from others.
Work Cited
Shteyngart, Gary. “Only Disconnect.” The New York Times, 2010.