Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?

Hyperbole, or exaggeration, pervades Kaling’s work. The writer uses exaggerated statements and descriptions to amplify the comedic styling of the work and to emphasize contrast. Hyperbole works as a comedic technique because it can create a light-hearted tone while challenging one’s expectations. The opening line of Chapter 31 illustrates simple hyperbole: “I would rather have someone read my diary than look at my iPod playlists” (198). Kaling also uses hyperbole in larger ways by exaggerating her weight and nerdiness as a child, her obsession with dieting, and the revenge fantasies she uses to motivate her workout routines.

Juxtaposition is an important literary device in both fiction and nonfiction. By placing two characters or concepts side-by-side, the writer draws attention to their differences. Kaling uses juxtaposition in numerous ways to increase the comedic value of her work and to emphasize themes.

For example, Kaling details her experiences in Pursuing a Career in Film Media. She shows her readers that working hard and studying can have its advantages in an otherwise glamorous and shallow world. Maintaining this work ethic requires a willingness to diverge from the status quo.