“It doesn 't deter crime, but merely cheapens human life and gives rise to more murders.” This is one of the many quotes that reflects Truman Capote’s view on capital punishment. In writing his novel, In Cold Blood, Capote’s primary purpose is to convey his opposition towards the death penalty. Through the stylistic elements of rhetorical appeals, diction, and a selection of detail, Capote reveals the attitude he holds against this unreasonable form of justice. Tying into the events of the trial, Capote uses the rhetorical appeal pathos to highlight his point by appealing to the emotions and sensitivities of his audience. He argues an unfair trial by referring to the M’Naghten rule in which “Kansas law allowed nothing more than a yes or no