There are many instances when the author hints that the essay is intended to be a satirical piece. Before presenting his proposal, the author states that he hopes it "will not be liable to the least objection." The reader knows that most proposals receive at least some objection, so the exaggeration in this line hints at satire. Immediately after this statement, the author suggests cannibalizing young infants as a way of solving Ireland's financial crisis. Of course, this is an absurd suggestion. Swift proposes such a solution to call attention to how the government has neglected the poor in Ireland. Even before the author presents his solution, there are excerpts that indicate that the whole article is intended as a satire. For example, Swift describes stealing as a means of livelihood for 6-year-olds. Later, he brings the reader's attention to the rich landlords' exploitation of poor tenants by stating, "as [landlords] have already devoured most of the parents." His critique of the rich and powerful is implied because he pretends not to criticize them and offers solutions that go against even the most basic of social values.
(PLATO)
