Reactionary Essay on Applied Science | Themes

The Dangers of Modern Technology
“Reactionary Essay on Applied Science” contrasts the benefits of minor domestic inventions with the major scientific accomplishments of famous inventors. Even though the work is lightly humorous, the underlying satire contains a serious premise: many so-called technological advances are in fact dangerous and destructive.

McGinley uses contrast throughout the poem to illustrate her thesis. Many of the asides, as well as the third and fourth stanzas, focus on inventions by “unsung” creators. These are small innovations which...


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