The "F Word"

     Prejudice acts as an obstacle for all citizens nationwide. Language, religion, and ethnicity are not the only factors that contribute to discrimination-- one's name can act as a barrier, too. In her article, "The 'F Word'", Firoozeh Dumas discusses the challenges of possessing a foreign name and finding an identity in America. Using humor, Dumas develops her argument by citing examples of similes, sarcasm, and irony.
    Dumas informs her readers of the barrier a foreign name can produce by using smilies. She writes, "My first and last name together generally served the same purpose as a high brick wall," (740). In this quotation, the author uses a simile to represent how much of an obstacle her full name can be. The image of a "high brick wall" shows the reader how difficult it is be for others to see past the racial sigma tied to her name.
    The author uses sarcasm to bring humor to her argument. She tells a story of her determination in finding a new, americanized name. Her father suggests "Fifi"as a shortened version of "Firoozeh". Dumas' response is as following: "Had I a special affinity for French poodles or been considering career in prostitution, I would've gone with the name," (740). This vignette shows the struggle of an Iranian girl just trying to fit in. The sarcastic come back brings comic relief to her argument, creating a more amiable mood for readers to experience, enjoy, and remember.
     Lastly, Dumas uses irony to prove her point. She writes of the time when she first began sixth grade with her new name. Without a foreign name, she becomes privy to the racial prejudice felt by her peers. "This meant that I was often privy to their real feelings about this 'damn I-raynians'" (740). Her classmates are unaware of her ethnic roots while she is in possession of an American name.
     Comedy proves to be an effective means to persuasion by allowing readers to feel a more positive connection with the writer. It builds trust and credibility, which are two key elements of persuasion. Firoozeh Dumas discusses how difficult it is to overcome the racial barrier with a foreign name. This is done by including similes, sarcasm, and irony to add comic relief to her argument.