America, home of the Star Spangled Banner and deep fried Girl Scout cookies. Ask almost anyone that grew up in America what they think when they hear the word "America". Some will say power, others will say freedom, but the truth evades nearly everyone. Bill Bryson is one of the few that have moved past the ignorance of " 'Murica " and realized how the big the United States of America's ego really is.
Bill Bryson asserts that America is a place of "bigger is better" with examples of massive sporting events, a huge military, biggest portions, and even the most devastating nuclear arsenal on this planet. He believes many Americans are taught these ideas from birth that America is the number one country on the planet due to the notion that "God likes us best". Bryson is saying that America is the most cocky and narcissistic nation on the planet due to the ideals many of the citizens are taught throughout their lives.
He uses techniques such as syntax, diction, and most definitely satire. His use of syntax provides a sense of humor and lightheartedness throughout the text, such as when he puts the example of devastating nuclear arsenals next to peaceful, patriotic Americans. Diction was used to exaggerate the "power" of America, with words such as perfect, amplest, cheapest, devastating, and productive. Finally, his use of satire improves the tone of the text to not make it as dark as it would have been without it.
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