Finding the Purpose in Literary Hoaxes
AP Lang – February 2012 – Noel
As a class we discussed the Willie Lynch speech and the authenticity of the document. Additionally, we discussed the
importance of correctly identifying the occasion, audience, purpose, and speaker in order to completely understand the
power of the written (or spoken) word.
Supporters of the Willie Lynch speech argue that its delivery at the Million Man March in 1995 was appropriate for Louis
Farrakhan’s purpose and, therefore, the effectiveness overshadows the questions about its legitimacy. Anne Taylor, the
researcher who gave the speech to Farrakhan, defends her decision to disseminate the speech because nothing else is
“able to engage African Americans, young and old, more than this polemic about the practice which is the crux of our
common experience.” Many, as we discussed, dispute this justification.
In addition to analyzing the Willie Lynch speech, we also discussed other literary “hoaxes” and the repercussions of their
publication. We discussed the intended versus real audiences and the author’s purpose in publishing these selections.
Assignment: Write an argument in which you explain whether or not literary hoaxes are morally acceptable if the
author’s purpose is ethical or just. Consider the purpose and audience of the piece as well as the immediate and lasting
effect of the piece within history/culture. Use two or more texts as examples to argue whether the meaning about an
issue overrides the importance of honesty, or if the deceit discredits the argument and nullifies the message that the
speaker is trying to deliver.
Notes:
1. While it is permissible in AP Lang responses to use the first person, I recommend that you refrain from overusing
pronouns. It is never acceptable to use the second person you. Never.
2. I fully expect you to integrate textual support from two selections and to cite them correctly. Additionally, I expect to
see you to synthesize ideas that have been discussed in class. Those who want to challenge themselves (and impress
me) will pull in other sources regarding the historical/cultural impact of the texts. You may want to ask whether the
discovery of a text as a hoax ends up being more harmful to the argument than any counter-argument/point could have
been. You should also consider want prompted the writer to produce the hoax – a belief that this is the best way to
support his/her message? Fear? Rage?
3. For practice, I want you to follow the classical arrangement as you organize your ideas. You should follow the
guidelines in your textbook or in your notes.
4. The essay should be in the correct MLA format with a Works Cited page that is absolutely perfect. Use the Online
Writing Lab on msnoel.com for assistance.
The Jackalope: Real or Hoax?