In Response to Admirer 3:
(A single red rose)
This approach is based almost entirely on an appeal of ethos. Rather than describing me or what makes me impressive, the "secret admirer" spends the the entire time describing herself. She points out that "NOBODY" knows me like she does. She asserts that she will always be there for me, no matter what. By claiming that she is already my best friend and that she wants something more, she sets up a "base" of trust upon which I am able to build my response.
I find this rhetorical appeal very interesting. One might think that an appeal of ethos implies the writer's egotism and arrogance. I disagree in this case. The points that she brings up are written to establish trust rather than to boast or brag. In contrast to the other responses, this letter does not sound obsessive or over the top. She is simply letting me know that she knows and cares about me as a friend and that she wants things to go further.
Of the three, this is the letter I would be most likely to respond to. The casual tone gives the feeling that even if things don't work out romantically, we will still continue to be good friends. Her writing as inviting yet reassuring and removes the feeling of awkwardness that can so easily accompany such a note. The strong appeal of ethos allows me to trust the writer and invest in what she is saying.
P.S. As far as the rose goes, I'm a boy. Flowers aren't my thing.
I like your analysis, but disagree with you on one front. You can see my post as a reference, but I think that the admirer gives a more balanced approach than just ethos. The emotional ties of being a best friend definitely exist, and the tone of voice tugs the heart strings (but I can understand that emotional appeals aren't universal). I also think that because she proves that she knows you so well, the next logical step is for you to at least give her a try. That being said, I really liked your post. Good work.
ReplyDeleteI agree that most of the approach is based on ethos, but I think there are other kinds of appeals in there too. I think your analysis seemed a little one-sided because you didn't acknowledge the other kinds of appeals. Other than that, good job.
ReplyDeleteAWESOME, Caleb! Great incorporation of the text, and you make a convincing case for her ethical appeals.
ReplyDelete