Question

In Abedi’s article “banning plastic straws - a look at how much it actually helps, and who it could hurt’ , the author describes straws as a “low-hanging fruit” (paragraph 1). What overall impact does this phrase have on the author’s purpose ?

Answer 1

Answer: The phrase “low-hanging fruit” summarizes the purpose of the author in the article. "Low-hanging fruit" is a metaphor used to refer to an easily achievable target. The author uses it to imply that despite the understandable reasons to ban straws, they are a reachable solution for the ones that need them.

Explanation: The article includes different opinions about the advantages and disadvantages of banning straws. It states that after a video of a turtle that got hurt by a straw went viral, several people demanded straws to be prohibited. However, the author used the phrase “low-hanging fruit” to imply that, although their reasons are valid, people with mobility limitations need straws to drink, it is a reachable solution.