When comparing two essays regarding the same subject matter, the reader is able discover many differences by analyzing the content and writing style of each author. Both John Dos Passos and Janet Flanner have constructed two very different essays about Isadora Duncan. The author's styles of writing differ in word usage, grammar, and punctuation. Although Flanner and Dos Passos include some of the same factual statements about Isadora's life, there are also differences in the content of the essays. John Dos Passos and Janet Flanner are able to show their opposing views of Isadora Duncan, a once famous dancer in the 20th century, through different writing styles and content.
Janet Flanner and John Dos Passos write about Isadora Duncan in two very different grammatical styles. Flanner uses a poetic style that contains many poetic devices, such as similes, metaphors, and the use of alliteration, in her essay. She immediately starts her essay by stating that Isadora began dancing "like a ghost from the grave- and makes reference to her spirit being as "green as a bay tree."" This writing style gives the reader a much more positive attitude which reflects Janet Flanner's own view of Isadora Duncan. John Dos Passos on the other hand writes in a much more unorthodox style. He often miss capitalizes words, such as "Art,"" to show sarcasm. Dos Passos uses fragments and often ends sentences in incorrect places. This choppy structure gives the reader a negative view of Isadora and foreshadows his view of her unconventional life. By analyzing Dos Passos and Flanner's writing styles, it is clear to see the opposing sides both writers take in their essays. .
Dos Passos and Flanner include many similar statements concerning Isadora's life throughout their essays. One of the most important ideas that both authors strive to point out throughout their essays is that Isadora was a free spirit.