Rhetorical Analysis: Leah Hager Cohen

Through the implementation of various rhetorical strategies, sensory imagery, and eloquent phrasing, Leah Hager Cohen effectively depicts the predominant idea that despite the stereotypical assumption that the audibly impaired cannot possibly be normal, her grandpa is, indeed, quite normal. The author employs vivid sensory imagery strategically throughout the essay. By strategically, she applies the images meticulously in order to fortify her ideas. She writes, “He smacked his lips and sucked his teeth…” (2, 5-6). In this application, Cohen appeals to the senses of hearing, taste, and touch. She vividly describes the ways in which he eats, which, however, are particularly common. Cohen’s central idea regarding the grandfather’s normality is clearly seen through the various

Similarly, she describes his hand as being “warm and dry” (11, 6). This application builds upon her message that her deaf grandpa is just like a non-audibly impaired man. Cohen assumes the role of an innocent, loving person who is reflecting upon the great times spent with her loved one. She employs detailed descriptions in order to allow the reader to visualize the situation, and to build upon her grandfather’s greatness. These descriptions cause the audience to reminisce upon memories they have created with their own grandfathers. Cohen is targeting those who are in similar situations, those who have a handicapped loved one and/or have a fortified relationship with a loved one. One way the author depicted her fortified relationship with her grandfather was through the strategical placing of rhetorical devices. Cohen frequently uses simile throughout the entire essay. For example, “… felt like a chunk of honed granite swathed in stiff white bristles” (1. 4). Cohen utilizes this simile to describe the primary form of communication between her grandfather