In his work the "Modest Proposal", Swift doesn't even bother to use the allegorical style; he directly attacks the government of Ireland and the distressful situation of the country. He shows no sympathy for the poor of the country and suggests that since an increasing number of children in poor households are a problem for the country's economy, it would therefore be best that Irish eat their own children or sell their flesh. This is an extremely distasteful proposition, as it not only takes satire to new heights; it also shows that the writer lacks complete compassion. He also makes it clear that his proposal doesn't include the children of 'professed beggars' only but all infants of a certain age: ". my intention is very far from being confined to provide only for the children of professed beggars, it is of a much greater extent, and shall take in the whole number of infants at a certain age, who are born of parents in effect as little able to support them, as those who demand our charity in the streets." (Swift: p. 368) .

             Swift's use of irony and satire is clear from each and every line of the essay. In the beginning though, the reader would find the description of poor mothers and their children witty and humorous but it all turns to vicious satire when the writer presents his proposal. Swift begins the essay with the following lines in which the tone is sarcastic and the ironic account of the poor people on the streets of Ireland would upset some and offend others. But these lines are still lighter in satire compared to the later parts of the essay. .

             "It is a melancholy object to those who walk through this great town or travel in the country, when they see the streets, the roads, and cabin doors, crowded with beggars of the female sex, followed by three, four, or six children, all in rags and importuning every passenger for an alms. These mothers, instead of being able to work for their honest livelihood, are forced to employ all their time in strolling to beg sustenance for their helpless infants: who as they grow up either turn thieves for want of work, or leave their dear native country to fight for the Pretender in Spain.