Dickens

While entertaining, the quote from Dick Swiveller does little to inform the reader on the purpose of the argument.
             Similarly, the conclusion of "The She-Dragon" falls short of perfection. Ayres states that: "the text has not judged her [Sally] [. . .]impartially", but fails to give an example to back the comment. An example or citation from the text would help her argument tremendously by giving credibility to the statement and closure to the conclusion. The sentences are stale; they lack energy and excitement. Instead of giving the readers one final thought to take away with them, the conclusion leaves the readers hanging. On the other hand, statements such as "the emphatic consequences of woman's powerlessness" and "the fate of women crushed under the weight of oppression" (5) grab the readers' attention during the conclusion to "The Little Women". The readers forget the confusing or boring parts of the text as the rousing words sweep them away. This conclusion offers more than just eloquent words, though, it includes details. Ayres not only talks about the oppression of women, she gives an example. The reference to Nell's death, although brief, provides just the substance a conclusion needs. Readers finish the selection with a clear understanding of what they read.
             Details, sources, and citations form the backbone of any argument. They give a paper structure and balance; without them, a paper cannot stand. Too many details can weaken a paper, however. The author's voice needs to be heard above the chatter of others (even if it is Dickens' chatter). Finding the middle ground can be difficult, but "The Little Women" reaches that point. At times this selection appears to lack plot summaries and long descriptions from the novel. It includes fewer quotes from the novel and spends less time recalling the features and personalities of the women which can make it appear short and less developed.