Maria Angelyn Parsacala HUMSS 11

A critical analysis of “The Audit” by Rachel May

I. Introduction

“The Audit” by Rachel May is a captivating literary work that follows the story of
Bill and his family’s encounter with an environmental audit called the Global Climate
Audit (GCA), a worldwide initiative aimed at reducing carbon footprints. Bill is faced with
a task of lowering his family’s carbon footprint to meet GCA standards. This story
highlights the challenges and choices people face in reducing their environmental
impact in a world dealing with climate change. It teaches us the importance of individual
actions in achieving ecological peace and making sustainable choices for a better
environment.

In this analysis, I will be using the reader-response approach. This approach

invites us to explore how the text resonates with our own thoughts, emotions, and
perspectives. This allows for a more intimate understanding and significance of the
literary work on a more personal level.

II. Body

“The Audit” by Rachel May explores the themes of environmental responsibility

and awareness which deeply resonate with me as a grade 11 HUMSS student because
it aligns with what I am studying, which is humanities and social sciences. It illustrates
how the topics I learn in class, like social and environmental issues, are relevant in the
real world. It shows how individuals can make a difference in these complex problems,
which is similar to what I study in social sciences, understanding society and
contributing positively to it. This connection makes my education more practical and
meaningful.

III. Conclusion

In conclusion, “The Audit” by Rachel May encourages us readers to reduce our

carbon footprint and teaches us about the significance of individual actions to combat
these environmental challenges we face today. This story reflects the idea of structural
functionalism where characters like Bill and Goodwin represent individuals contributing
to the overall environmental system. Through literature, we are reminded of our
responsibility and inspired to make positive changes for the well-being of our
environment and society.