Useful Examples for AP Lang Flamingo Essays The use of irony in "The Plastic Pink Flamingo": Analyze the use of irony by Jennifer Price in her essay to convey her critique of American flamingo materialism and culture through the symbolism of the pink flamingo. The meaning of the essay's sarcastic tone: Discuss how Price's sarcastic tone throughout the essay serves as a powerful tool to challenge social norms and emphasize the absurdity of the pink flamingo's cultural status. the symbol of the pink flamingo: examines the historical context and changing perception of the pink flamingo in American culture, as represented by Jennifer Price. How does it reflect changes in social values? The Role of Color in Symbolization: Analyze the symbolism of the color pink in the essay and its broader implications on consumer culture and materialism in America in the 1950s. The Influence of Popular Culture on American Identity: Explore how the iconic pink flamingo represents the influence of popular culture on American identity and consumerism, as highlighted by Jennifer Price in her essay. AP Lang Flamingo Essay Example In a sarcastic tone, writer Jennifer Price describes the relationship between the infamous pink flamingo and common culture in an attempt to highlight the materialism of Americans in the 1950s. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Price immediately shows his sarcastic tone with the title of his essay “The Plastic Pink Flamingo: A Natural History.” This is quite ironic, as it portrays a piece of cheap pink plastic as something that has sculpted our society in a monumental way. To more educated readers, this would seem bizarre, which is the writer's goal: to make the reader fully understand how inappropriate it is to have this cheap piece of plastic as a social icon. In conjunction with the previous idea, Price begins his essay with bold diction by pointing out how tourists often “flock” to Florida and leave with new flamingo souvenirs. As a result, the flamingo became “synonymous with wealth”. The author illustrates, in this case, how the flamingo is now the "face" of Florida, now used as something Floridians can profit from. Price continues with his use of irony and sarcastic tone, particularly when discussing the two different ideas separated by the short phrase "But it doesn't matter." Prior to this statement, Price acknowledges how in the past flamingos were despised and almost hunted to the brink of extinction. However, by following this short sentence, Price highlights the popularity that the flamingo gained in the 1950s. These two ideas contradict each other, clearly, which further manifests the idea that Americans now "worship" this piece of molded plastic is undoubtedly ironic. Along with his use of irony, Price uses a simile to further clarify his feelings towards flamingos. in American culture. Repeatedly mentioning pink and its multiple and equally exciting shades further highlights the unnecessary prevalence of the flamingo in American society. Although color may seem insignificant, it has become a social norm: “Washing machines, cars and kitchen counters.” According to Price, the level of idolatry has reached new heights; heights that should never have been reached. In 1950s America, restaurants and other businesses in Florida were "like a line of semiotic sprouts," deploying these flamingos left and right as if they were a major factor.