Rhetorical Analysis of “How to Have a Conversation”
In today’s world, technology often seems to get in the way of real human connection and the concern around its effects on our conversation skills has even spawned self-improvement classes designed to elevate the practice. In his article, “How to Have a Conversation,” John McDermott, Executive Comment Editor of the Financial Times, matter-of-factly describes his experiences and musings during his attendance to one such class. His writing seems intended for anyone who wishes to connect with others in a more meaningful way. To lend authority to this purpose, he cites multiple renowned conversationalists. Inevitably, however, he concludes that the best way to have a conversation is simply to make the choice to have one. Conversation, according to McDermott, does not require great knowledge, or carefully thought out techniques; the act of talking, listening, and sharing is sufficient. McDermott convincingly demonstrates his premise by examining conversations in
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Storytelling or entertainment and true conversation are not the same thing. He realizes that “conversation needn’t be anything. It needn’t have a purpose” (Paragraph 24, line 3). Through his application of description, irony, and the purposeful uses of pathos and ethos, McDermott manages to be convincing in his conclusion. As noted, the conversations had before the class may not have been deep, or entertaining, but they were sufficient for what his classmates stated their goals were. They were able to have these conversations simply because they chose to speak, listen, and share -- they made the choice to do this. Fortunately, the night was not completely wasted, the students did have an opportunity to converse before the class, and at least there was quiche and