Why “What is Poverty?” Makes the Reader Uncomfortable What does it mean to be poor? Jo Goodwin Parker’s article, “What is Poverty?”, summarizes her ideas of the true definition of poverty. The article is harsh and direct and can actually make the reader uncomfortable while reading it. Parker’s stern and caustic tone throughout the article makes her seem angry at the reader. Parker’s content is extremely graphic and too personal for the …showed first 75 words of 967 total…

…showed last 75 words of 967 total…tell that Parker did not think that to be true. Instead of trying to turn her life around, she complains about her entire life. This constant complaining annoys the reader and makes the reader even more uncomfortable. Parker’s article makes the reader feel guilty and makes one almost wonder if she is telling the entire truth. From the first sentence to the last sentence, Parker attacks and confronts the reader in a negative way.