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America Quote by Ishmael Reed

“If the British prose style is Churchillian, America is the tobacco auctioneer, the barker; Runyon, Lardner, W.W., the traveling salesman who can sell the world the Brooklyn Bridge every day, can put anything over on you and convince you that tomatoes grow at the South Pole.” quote by Ishmael Reed
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“If the British prose style is Churchillian, America is the tobacco auctioneer, the barker; Runyon, Lardner, W.W., the traveling salesman who can sell the world the Brooklyn Bridge every day, can put anything over on you and convince you that tomatoes grow at the South Pole.”

Ishmael Reed

About This Quote

A vivid metaphor comparing American prose to a flamboyant salesman who can sell impossible things.

In simple terms: American writing is bold, persuasive, and often exaggerated.

Key Takeaway

Critically assess persuasive language.

Themes

literature style exaggeration American culture

Mood

critical analytical

Type

literary observational

When to use this quote

  • marketing
  • political speech
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

rhetoric hyperbole

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does persuasion become deception?
  • How does style affect credibility?
A Different Perspective

The comparison may ignore nuanced literary traditions.

3.7 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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