Essays every high school student should read

Essays are a powerful medium of communication, and every high school student should read examples of some of the most influential essays ever written. From classic works by famous writers such as Jonathan Swift, George Orwell, E.B. White, and Toni Morrison to contemporary pieces by writers such as Ta-Nehisi Coates and Sandra Cisneros, reading essays can open your eyes to new ideas and help you gain a broader perspective on the world.

An essay can provide a unique perspective on an issue and stimulate critical thinking. For example, Jonathan Swifts A Modest Proposal is a satire of the plight of the Irish poor and suggests an outlandish solution to their problems. In addition to being an entertaining read, it can help students understand the nuances of satire and how to use it effectively. Similarly, George Orwells Shooting an Elephant is an essay about colonialism and its effects on individuals; this essay can provide insight into the nature of oppression and the power dynamics between colonizers and colonized populations.

Essays can also expose students to different writing styles and techniques. E.B. Whites Once More To The Lake is an example of a personal narrative essay that focuses on his childhood memories of a lake. By reading it, students can learn how to craft vivid descriptions and use sensory language to bring a story to life. On the other hand, Toni Morrisons The Site of Memory is a more abstract and philosophical essay that touches on the power of memory and its effects on our experience of the world. Reading this essay can provide a way for students to explore the complexities of memory and its intersection with identity.

Regardless of the type of essay, reading them as a high school student can give you a greater appreciation for different writing styles and help you gain deeper insights into the issues and topics discussed.