Rhethorical Analysis Of The Clare Boothe Luce's Speech To The Women's National Press (Essay Example)

In the 1960’s being a woman, as well as a journalist had it’s trials. The constant misogyny, discontempt, and over all distaste society had towards working women was profound. Yet in 1960 Clare Boothe Luce spoke to a room full of journalists about the titan called the American Press. With the use of rhetoric and a strong sense of tone, Boothe transforms a room full of journalists into a battle ground. Where she strategically plans her attacks as well as her victories. 

Boothe commences her speech with an accusatory tone then finishes it off  by praising the journalists. Boothe starts off with a metaphor, stating “I stand here at this rostrum invited to throw rocks at you. The subject not only is of great national significance but also has, one should say, infinite possibilities---and infinite perils to the rock thrower.” This metaphor is important because it sets her intentions for her speech right from the beginning. She explains that she will criticize the American press, but she will still be fair and considerate. Boothes tone, while harsh, is still constructive and indicates a passion for journalism and its endeavors. An example of said tone is when Boothe states, “In my perilous but earnest effort to do so here tonight I must begin by saying that if there is much that is wrong with the American press, there is also much that is right with it." Boothe wants the audience to acknowledge her ideas, and really process them. As a woman in the 1960’s it was hard to be heard, but now was her time. This was a chance to discuss reforms in journalism, and it was important for the audience not to feel attacked. Boothe accomplishes this goal with a stern yet overall fair tone. 

Boothe starts off her argument with a juxtaposition by admiring the presses strengths and highlighting it’s faults. For instance when Booth declares “There is much that is wrong with the American press, there is also much that is right with it.” She connects with the audience, by showing she knows the ins and outs of journalism. This way the audience is more likely to connect with her. This connection is prudent, because then the audience will presumably trust her opinion more. Another way Boothe connects with her audience is through repetition. This repetition was incredibly influential because it helped pull the audience in further. One example is when Boothe states "On a working finite level it is . . . strip away cant. It is the. . . smaller aspect of life that touches the public interest or engages proper public curiosity." This repetition, typically with "It is,” puts great emphasis on her points. Allowing Boothe to really get into her passion for journalism and all her criticisms that come with it. 

Boothe’s prelude to her speech is very carefully crafted. From the moment her speech starts, she hooks her audience into a state of idleness. This allows her to have their complete attention while flushing her main points across. Boothe’s introduction gives a good look into the body of her speech while still maintaining an upbeat, and honest tone. Her speech is well worded and structured, nothing she says is an accident. Using metaphors, repetition, and juxtaposition Boothe draws in her audience and holds them to the very end.