Which Two Things Are Being Compared In The Last Sentence

The Unexpected Parallel: Comparing Apples and Oranges in the Final Sentence

The age-old adage, "comparing apples and oranges," ironically highlights the very act of comparison itself. While seemingly disparate, the comparison itself reveals underlying similarities or differences. This article delves into the art of comparing dissimilar things, focusing specifically on identifying and analyzing the two elements compared in a concluding sentence – a rhetorical technique employed to drive home a point, create a lasting impression, or even subvert expectations. We'll explore various examples across different literary forms and analyze the effectiveness of such comparisons, demonstrating the power of juxtaposing seemingly unrelated concepts.

Understanding the Power of Final Sentence Comparisons

The last sentence of any piece of writing – be it a short story, essay, poem, or even a marketing email – carries significant weight. It's the final impression, the lingering thought the reader takes away. Employing a comparison in this crucial position amplifies the message. By contrasting or linking two seemingly disparate elements, the author crafts a powerful conclusion that lingers in the reader's mind. This technique can:

• Highlight a key theme or message: The comparison acts as a summary, encapsulating the main argument or idea.
• Create a memorable image: A striking comparison can leave a lasting impression, making the piece more impactful.
• Introduce a twist or unexpected revelation: The comparison can subvert expectations and offer a new perspective on the preceding text.
• Evoke strong emotions: The juxtaposition of contrasting elements can generate a range of emotions, from surprise to sadness, depending on the context.

Identifying the Compared Elements: A Systematic Approach

To effectively analyze the final sentence comparison, we need a systematic approach. First, we must accurately identify the two elements being compared. This might seem straightforward, but subtleties in language and implied comparisons can complicate the process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Isolate the final sentence: Focus solely on the concluding sentence. Context from previous sentences is important, but the core analysis should be limited to the final statement.
2. Identify the main clauses: Break down the sentence into its core components. Often, the comparison will reside within the main clauses.
3. Look for conjunctions: Words like "like," "as," "unlike," "whereas," "but," and "however" often signal a comparison.
4. Consider implied comparisons: Sometimes the comparison isn't explicitly stated. The author might use metaphors, similes, or analogies to suggest a parallel between two entities.
5. Analyze the relationship: Determine whether the comparison is based on similarity, difference, or a combination of both. What aspects are being compared? Are they characteristics, qualities, actions, or experiences?

Examples Across Different Literary Forms

Let's explore how this technique manifests across various genres:

1. Fiction:

Consider a short story about a struggling artist finally achieving recognition. The final sentence might read: "Her success tasted as sweet as the bitter struggle had been arduous." Here, the two elements compared are the "sweetness of success" and the "bitterness of struggle." The comparison highlights the contrast and the hard-earned nature of her achievement.

2. Poetry:

In a poem about loss and resilience, the concluding line could be: "Grief, like a storm-tossed sea, eventually yields to the calm of a quiet shore." Here, "grief" is compared to a "storm-tossed sea," and its eventual resolution is likened to a "quiet shore." The comparison emphasizes the transformative power of time and resilience.

3. Non-fiction/Essays:

An essay discussing societal change might end with: "The fight for equality is not a sprint, but a marathon requiring unwavering determination." In this case, "the fight for equality" is compared to "a marathon," highlighting its enduring nature and the need for sustained effort.

4. Marketing/Advertising:

A marketing campaign for a new phone might claim: "Our phone isn't just a device; it's an extension of yourself." Here, "a phone" is compared to "an extension of yourself," emphasizing its personal and integrated nature, appealing to the user's sense of identity.

Analyzing the Effectiveness of Final Sentence Comparisons

The effectiveness of a final sentence comparison depends on several factors:

• Clarity: The comparison must be clear and easily understood. Avoid overly complex or obscure comparisons that confuse the reader.
• Relevance: The comparison should be directly related to the overall theme or message of the text. An irrelevant comparison can undermine the impact of the conclusion.
• Originality: While cliché comparisons can be effective in certain contexts, aiming for a fresh and original comparison often yields stronger results.
• Emotional impact: A well-crafted comparison can evoke powerful emotions, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Examples of Ineffective Comparisons:

• Vague or abstract comparisons: "It was like, you know, really different." This lacks clarity and specific details.
• Forced comparisons: "Her smile was like a broken washing machine." This is jarring and lacks coherence.
• Clichéd comparisons: "He was as brave as a lion." While understood, it lacks originality and impact.

Advanced Techniques in Final Sentence Comparisons

Mastering the art of final sentence comparisons involves exploring more sophisticated techniques:

• Paradoxical Comparisons: Juxtaposing seemingly contradictory elements can create a compelling and thought-provoking conclusion. For example, "The greatest strength lies in acknowledging our weaknesses." This contrasts "strength" with "weaknesses."
• Metaphorical Comparisons: Using metaphors to create implicit comparisons can add layers of meaning and evoke richer imagery. For instance, "Hope was a fragile bird, clinging precariously to the storm-ravaged branch."
• Symbolic Comparisons: Employing symbols with established meanings can imbue the comparison with deeper significance. "The withered rose symbolized the fading embers of our love."

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Comparison

The careful crafting of a final sentence comparison is a powerful rhetorical tool. By strategically comparing two elements, writers can leave a lasting impact, summarize key themes, introduce a twist, or evoke strong emotions. Understanding the principles of effective comparison – clarity, relevance, originality, and emotional impact – is crucial for creating compelling and memorable conclusions. By analyzing the elements being compared and considering the overall context, we can better appreciate the artistry and effectiveness of this literary technique. The seemingly simple act of comparing two things in the final sentence can elevate a piece of writing from the ordinary to the extraordinary, leaving the reader contemplating the unexpected parallels unveiled in those final, resonant words.