This essay will require you to formulate a 750-word argumentative essay on one of the essays
covered in lecture from George Watsky’s How to Ruin Everything. The purpose of this essay is
to test your understanding of the text and to put forth a detailed and comprehensive thesis
statement and argument to prove the thesis statement. This thesis statement must formulate a
strong and specific stance on a particular question that will be provided closer to the due date of
the assignment. Your essay should also provide an understanding of how you intend to support
your thesis statement and must also include sufficient evidence from the text. You must only
answer ONE of the essay prompts, failure to explicitly state which question you will be taking
on or using multiple questions will result in deductions.
Question #1
In the essay “Tusk,” we are introduced to George Watsky at what would be a grand in-
between moment in life. Watsky is searching for purpose and belonging in the world of
music and poetry, but is having troubles finding consistent work, which is part of the
reason why he takes on the journey of smuggling the tusk across the border. In a 750-
word essay with examples taken from the primary source, write an argumentative essay
with a complete thesis statement about how Watsky’s “Tusk” emphasizes relatability
through his struggle to find purpose and meaning in the world. In addition to the
overarching theme of relatability, you might also want to consider how Watsky views joy
and jubilation in others (i.e. Aunt June) as well as how he faces consequences for his
actions (i.e. his arrest in Wyoming).
In order to succeed in writing these essays, you will want to make sure that you having an
introduction, a coherent and cohesive thesis statement, body paragraphs with topic and transition
sentences, quotations from the primary source (either “Tusk” or “Fa Kieu” in this assignment), a
conclusion, and a works cited list. The best essays will form an argument around how the
overarching themes of the essays are exemplified in Watsky’s essays. Spelling and grammar will
also be taken into account when assigning a grade, so be sure to take the time to read over you
work and make necessary edits. Remember to refer back to specific chapters from So, Where’s
Your Thesis? if you run into troubles, or make an appointment to go over your work with me.
