Rhetorical Analysis: John Dutton’s Essay "Toxic Soup" 
Drew Lewis
English 1102
Prof. Lowe
10.5.10
Rhetorical Analysis
John Dutton’s essay “Toxic Soup” (2006) speculates about the effects that humans have on pollution in the ocean, as well as ways the damage can be reduced. In this essay, Dutton incorporates his personal experiences as a surfer and nature lover with statistics and his knowledge of the effects of water pollution on animals and humans. Dutton’s purpose is to raise public awareness of the need for environmental protection of the ocean in order to preserve and improve nature’s status. Given the language and references used, Dutton is writing for college educated adults interested in science and the environment. Dutton expresses strong opposition to those who are more concerned with themselves than the environment and ocean, stating that “if you think it’s bad in the lineup for you…it’s far worse for the organisms that live in there 24/7” (396). The appeal leans towards Californian Surfers and those who are environmentally conscious enough to buy organic food and are mindful of how things like motor oil and yard waste are disposed of. Dutton minimizes ailments that humans may suffer, stating that dangerous parasites that cause cancers and disease in sea creatures are “a far cry from an ear infection, a common cold, or the runs” (397). While caring for the environment is undoubtedly important, diminishing the importance and severity of human illnesses and conditions seemed excessive. This approach portrays Dutton as more of an alarmist than an advocate. Because he wants to create some kind of connection with his audience, Dutton uses a strong emotional appeal. The effect that Dutton’s essay achieves is that it forces readers to think about pollution’s effect on the wildlife that lives in the water and the responsibility of humans. His personal narrative attempts to help the audience relate to a time where they have been in the ocean for a significant period of time and came out feeling sick and make
English 1102
Prof. Lowe
10.5.10
Rhetorical Analysis
John Dutton’s essay “Toxic Soup” (2006) speculates about the effects that humans have on pollution in the ocean, as well as ways the damage can be reduced. In this essay, Dutton incorporates his personal experiences as a surfer and nature lover with statistics and his knowledge of the effects of water pollution on animals and humans. Dutton’s purpose is to raise public awareness of the need for environmental protection of the ocean in order to preserve and improve nature’s status. Given the language and references used, Dutton is writing for college educated adults interested in science and the environment. Dutton expresses strong opposition to those who are more concerned with themselves than the environment and ocean, stating that “if you think it’s bad in the lineup for you…it’s far worse for the organisms that live in there 24/7” (396). The appeal leans towards Californian Surfers and those who are environmentally conscious enough to buy organic food and are mindful of how things like motor oil and yard waste are disposed of. Dutton minimizes ailments that humans may suffer, stating that dangerous parasites that cause cancers and disease in sea creatures are “a far cry from an ear infection, a common cold, or the runs” (397). While caring for the environment is undoubtedly important, diminishing the importance and severity of human illnesses and conditions seemed excessive. This approach portrays Dutton as more of an alarmist than an advocate. Because he wants to create some kind of connection with his audience, Dutton uses a strong emotional appeal. The effect that Dutton’s essay achieves is that it forces readers to think about pollution’s effect on the wildlife that lives in the water and the responsibility of humans. His personal narrative attempts to help the audience relate to a time where they have been in the ocean for a significant period of time and came out feeling sick and make