Elisabeth Woodbridge

     Elisabeth Woodbridge Morris wrote an essay called, "The Tyranny of Things." In this essay, Morris talks about the want to possess, "things." She talks about how people's desire wanting to possess things, can usually become a problem; when someone gets something, the more they want. She is able to persuade her audience by exploring relatable situation like friendship and how it is overshadowed by things, using examples of diminished travel experiences, and costly time required for upkeep of things.

    Firstly, Morris uses relatable situations to appeal to her audience. In the beginning of her speech, she gives a small anecdote about two girls who become friends because they both like "things." This situation is relatable as it is very common. The audience realize these type of relation ships are very shallow and fragile and wear out easily.  When people like friends for who they are, usually, it is much more interesting and everlasting.

     Secondly, Morris uses examples of diminished experience because of the time spent on things. She talks about how many people take home many souvenirs whenever they go places. People don't go to parties to have fun; guests are required to give gifts, in return, the host gives a smaller gift. People don't enjoy books without wanting to own it. Or people don't enjoy their own photos without having to hang it on their wall. These examples makes audience realize how much time their time is wasted on the time spent on possessions. This diminishes much of the experience. Thus, Morris succeeds in making audiences realize that their experiences would be enhanced if they let go of things. 

     Lastly, Morris talks about how the time needed to upkeep of things is consuming. She talks about how eventually, people get tired of obsessing over possessions and realize the burden they bring, start donating, and finally start enjoying life.

     In conclusion, Elisabeth Morris successfully convinces her audience by exploring relatable situation like friendship and how it is overshadowed by things, using examples of diminished experiences, and time required for upkeep of things. She hopes the audience stops clinging on to old possessions and start to enjoy life the way it is.

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