Peanuts cartoon by Charles Schulz: http://www.lixohumano.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/brown-sad.jpg
In this cartoon, Charlie Brown once again displays his tendency towards disappointment. He listens to a song that evokes sad memories, however, even in his glumness he chooses to listen to the song again.
Rhetorical elements include non-sequitur and appeal to pathos. It uses non-sequitur because Charlie's last statement does not seem to logically follow his previous words. It is strange and unexpected that he would like to listen to the song again since it makes him sad. There is also the use of communal memory, because everyone who has been truly sad understands what Charlie feels and acts this way.
The context includes the Charlie Brown comics. One who is familiar with the series knows that Charlie Brown is often a very pessimistic boy. In other words, he is often down in the dumps. Further context would include the experience or scenario Charles Schulz draws upon.
The author's purpose is perhaps to share an experience, and to relate to the audience, which is most likely his readers. He wants to create a sense of sympathy and empathy. This works because he has made good use of communal memory.
No comments:
Post a Comment