IELTS General Writing Task 2 — Practice Draft

Some people think that spending a lot on holding wedding parties, birthday parties and other celebrations is just a waste of money. Others, however, think that these are necessary for individuals and the society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

A Discussion and Opinion Essay
with a Funnel Approach Introduction

As social beings, gathering is a natural human behaviour. It comes as little surprise, thus, that assembling traditionally to celebrate certain life events, such as birthdays, marriages and so on, has constantly been shown in many, if not all, cultures. Today, seemingly due to modern capitalist mindsets, organising such celebrations has become a profitable business offering, in turn, a whole range of attractive celebratory packages, some of which varying from the most affordable to the most exorbitant.

Entrepreneurs of this niche come to high-end party business' defence, clarifying that the need for organising such events is booming. In other words, whilst customers keep requesting luxurious parties, it makes sense that it keeps being offered. What is more such niche, they say, is responsible for sustaining a considerable number of jobs and, as such, it should be fostered more and more and not restrained.

On the other hand, some claim that spending absurd amounts of money in luxurious parties for the sake of celebrating special occasions is just not reasonable; as there is no real long-term benefit for society. Rather, this money would be better invested, for example, in boosting social or educational sectors, yielding real gains for the common good.

That these kind of celebrations play a fundamental role in people's lives seems to be a consensus. Ergo, albeit I acknowledge the validity of both arguments, yet admitting that the latter resonates far more with my ideals, I believe that ultimately this is a very personal choice, and each one should be able to decide how much they are willing to spend on their celebrations.