Swift’s essay ‘A Modest Proposal for Preventing the Further Famine in Ireland’ is a satirical essay that criticizes the Irish government and its policies. The essay begins with a rhetorical question: “How may a poor man provide for the maintenance of a family, without exposing himself to misery?” (Swift 17) This rhetorical question is followed by an explanation of how he would like to see poverty alleviated in Ireland. Swift proposes that the government should sell its surplus food products at low prices, which will benefit those who cannot afford to buy them.
Hope this helps!