Rhetorical Analysis- “The Focused Life”
Is it a Focused Life? “We’re all amateur psychologists who run private experiments on how best to live” (Gallagher, 1). Thinking deeply about this quote, creates the realization that it is true and that nearly everyone does this subconsciously. Winifred Gallagher, the author of Rapt, believes that the real problem is that we do not perceive our individual ability to utilize our attention to focus and create a better future for ourselves. As a supporter, one would feel that Gallagher presents her argument in a very effective way by utilizing the three main rhetorical analysis tools: ethos, pathos, and logos. Ethos creates a balance between the three—it is all about credibility or how likeable someone is. Pathos is the passion or emotion expressed throughout an argument. If done correctly, pathos is the glue that binds it all together (Shadesbreath, 5). Lastly, logos is about the logic and facts behind the …show more content…
The main idea that Gallagher was presenting was the fact that life is the creation of what one does and does not focus on. Nowadays, people need to stay focused and pay more of their attention on the important things that can help us create a better future and overall life experience. Gallagher demonstrated her argument by utilizing ethos, pathos, and logos. She implied ethos or her credibility by sharing her personal experience with her battle of cancer. Although weak, her pathos or passion for the subject was hidden with the exception of her personal experience that made her interested in the subject of focus and attention. The logos presented were not scientifically proven, but on a personal note, it was proven through Gallagher’s personal experiences, which was enough proof to persuade others. “In short, I’ll live the focused life, because it’s the best kind there is” (Gallagher,