More young people today seem to be getting hooked on the nicotine in e-cigarettes like Juul (see "Is Juul Fuuling You?"). What would make a teen take up such a dangerous—and potentially cancer-causing—habit?
Critics say the makers of e-cigarettes have targeted young people by using teen-friendly marketing messages and creating flavors like mango and mint. The industry denies that it tries to attract young people.
This cartoon comments on the situation using irony. That term has several meanings, including the idea that a character is saying something that is the opposite of what’s true. Study the cartoon, then answer the questions below.
1. Who is the man in the cartoon? Where might he be?
2. What is he selling? How do you know?
3. What words or phrases would you use to describe him? How does the way the man is drawn give you that impression? Note specific details about his clothes and attitude.
4. How is what the man is saying ironic? How do the products he’s selling contradict his words?
5. How would you sum up the cartoon’s message?