The article “Why the beach is a bummer” by Roxane Gay discusses a mediocre topic of the difference between beaches and people that are expected to appear a certain way on it. The author tries to deliver the message that societal expectations will always exist and may vary. People may fall into the trap of wishing to look like others want them to see, but in reality, these stereotypes about beach body types are illusions that one can choose to follow and believe or ignore.
The author’s central claim is that no beach and body type should be considered standard. For example, Gay (2014) states that “nowhere in the world … is the water warmer and clearer” and “nowhere is the sand whiter or more willing to embrace our warm flesh” (para. 3). By selecting this topic and using non-academic and non-technical writing styles, the author seems to target an average American that has some critical analysis skills. Furthermore, utilization of this specific style, Gay is trying to connect with them and express her cynicism about the whole idea of beach body requirements that society sets.
Another approach the author uses to connect with the reader is real-life examples, which are analyzed philosophically but using the same simple writing. Specifically, when Gay (2014) recalls her experience on one of New Orleans’s beaches with tanned bodies and alcohol, she reminds the reader that anyone can survive without seeing all of it. The central claim in this article is that people can try to attain specific looks or behave in a particular way. However, they should never be obliged to do so if this perspective is not aligned with their values and goals. It is a strong claim because, from a long-term perspective, none of it will matter. Thus, visiting specific places or training one’s body to exhaustion should always be a matter of personal preference rather than a priority in life.
In summary, Gay’s article presents the central societal problem of body and lifestyle stereotypes using examples of expectation society puts on how people should present themselves on beaches. The author connected with the audience by combining a straightforward writing style and a cynical tone to show that all these standards are inessential. This claim is strong because Gay presents one specific personal experience during which she comes to the realization that she could live the same normal life without attending that beach.
Reference
Gay, R. (2014). Why the beach is a bummer. The New York Times. Web.