In Norman Mailer's essay, "The Death of Benny Paret" elements such as similes and ironic phrases are used in order to give the readers the true sense of the events that are taking place. These elements that were used are methodically placed throughout the essay; by Mailer doing this he gives his essay a logical aspect to it.
             "...the right whipping like a piston rod which has broken through the crankcase, or like a baseball bat demolishing a pumpkin." This an example of one of the similes used by Mailer. The simile is used to show the readers the viciousness of the opposing fighter, when he punched Paret numerous times in a matter of seconds. The effect that is posed onto the reader is one of awe and amazement. Mailer's usage of similes such as this one in his essay gives the audience a sense of involvement. He makes the readers feel as though they are right there sitting next to him in that second row, watching every single punch with him.
             The content found in this essay can be described as being logical. Mailer's essay is in an order that keeps the audience interested and entertained. He starts off by telling of a champion, Benny Paret, and how he had the unusual ability of taking a punch. He then goes on to tell how his fighting began to deteriorate, ultimately leading to his fall against Griffith. This order of events is one that keeps the readers at the edge of their seats, leaving his audience in the dark much throughout his essay.
             Mailer's essay is informative as well entertaining, something enjoyed by many. In this essay the elements used as well as the order of events make for a suspense filled, action packed time. This type of writing keeps the readers amused, something that most people enjoy when reading an essay.
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