They Say, I Say

Iara Fernal
English 102
Christy Vance
This week’s reading was the text “They Say I Say”. This text was interesting to read and analyze because it explained what one needs to do in order to write a good lead for his/her argument paper and what not to do in an essay.
The author of this composition makes two main points throughout his work. The first main point that the author is trying to make is to show his readers how important it is to make it clear to the readers where you are coming from with your argument. It is necessary to explain what other people have said about the topic or state studies that have been conducted which are related to your argument. If one just starts making his/her point without giving the reader enough background information his/her audience might even agree or disagree with the point but will be left hanging on where you are coming from.
The second main point the author is trying to make is to prove to his audience that a good essay can come from agreeing/disagreeing – or even both at the same time – with what a previous speaker has said. One can have any kind of opinion and write a good essay out of it as long as the writer has enough information and facts to support his point of view.
This text was really helpful because it shows to us, students, that our views – whatever they might be – can be valid as long as we can do a good job on backing up our ideas and statements. After reading this text I feel a little more prepared to start writing my argument paper and trying to persuade my readers into agreeing with what I am saying.