Tropic of Cancer by Christopher Hitchens

Tropic of Cancer, by Christopher Hitchens, was a compelling essay revolving around Hitchens’ struggle with cancer. Hitchens is credited with the best seller God is Not Great, a novel that was likewise built around his struggle. Hitchens wrote the essay not to disclose his physical pain, but rather the emotional strain felt within. His internal struggle exposed by the essay creates intrigue for the audience, yet heartbreak as well. Hitchens begins his essay as he awakens to find himself essentially feeling trapped in a corpse. He vividly describes his thoughts, as the future he had once had within his grasp remains uncertain. As medics arrive, he reflects on his life just hours prior and discloses the feeling of a life lost, thus creating a gloomy mood. However, after biopsy results return, the diagnosis of cancer is revealed. His cancer, which had started in the esophagus, had spread from its origin. His yearn for life and for attendance events that he will miss contributes to the mood as well. The description of his inner struggle and the bargains he must make with himself to “battle” cancer tugged on the hearts of readers. Aiming to connect with any reader, rather then a particular group, he displays vast emotions. Hitchens uses Pathos throughout the essay and connects with the emotions of the audience. After getting the dreadful news about his condition, he thinks to himself, “Will I really not live to see my children get married?”(87). His mention of family will connect to much of the audience on an intimate level. Family is of upmost importance in the lives of many. The mood conveyed by pathos silicates empathy of any reader, and also helps achieve his purpose. He was able to not only show his physical pain to readers, but the pain he felt inside as well. 

Chained By Pain
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