let’s analyze rhetorical analysis

When I first came across this phrase “rhetorical analysis” I thought it would solely apply to written text and how the author is effective through their word choice. After deeper thought and research into the topic I came to realize that we are all our own authors. Every time we speak we are using rhetorical devices that help make our audience believe us, feel our emotions, or agree with our point of view. This can be done subconsciously or consciously.

Let’s go back to our high school selves, shall we? I like to think of how I communicated with my parents, especially when I needed something from them. Picture this…. prom was coming up in just two weeks and I wanted it to be memorable, so of course there had to be an afterparty to celebrate the big night. I strategically approach my parents, beginning by boosting their ego with a compliment or genuine words of gratitude. I then use pathos to pull at their heart strings, asking them to think back on their senior prom and the happy memories that encapsulate that time.  As they reflect back on their youth, it is now my time of attack, I pop the question and ask to attend the after party hosted by my friend Katie. After buttering them up a little and playing to their emotions, my request was granted. 

In my example above, rhetorical devices were most definitely used to get a desired response. This is just one example of how rhetoric is used in everyday speech all the time. Maybe in an argument you are establishing your credibility on the subject being argued to make your argument more viable. The possibilities are endless.

After watching numerous Tedx Talks, with rhetoric in mind, I came to realize what is really effective. I noticed that the speakers that used anecdotal references always received positive interaction and participation from the audience members. Allowing the audience into the speaker’s life breaks down the third wall, allowing for a more intimate interaction, and therefore more effective in winning them over. Appealing to the emotions of the crowd was also very helpful in gaining the audience’s attention and respect. Lastly, crowd participation was effective, which acted as a way for the audience members to feel included, a sort of second person point of view. Opening the speech up to the audience helped to engage them and allowed them to help create the narrative. There are many ways to be an effective author in speech and writing.

Now go ask that lucky gal/guy to prom !