Elder Neal A Maxwell, on the subject of teaching by the Spirit,
stated that the lack of “visible earnestness” is what “deprives so many
presentations of their desired influence even when content is commendable.” In
my experience, I have found that the mien of the speaker can develop ethos as
much or more as the language used. A speaker that talks with feeling and
evident love for the gospel principle they discuss engenders my respect. I
listen more closely to what they say because I want understand how they
fostered this devotion and know how to experience it in myself. Gospel message
are so much stronger to me when shared with an “earnestness” of physical
demeanor and language.
Elder Holland’s “Of Souls, Symbols, and Sacraments” talk is a
great example of this intensity of language. He employs dramatic diction and
repetitious rewording in his address to emphasize the seriousness of his
message. He begins by asserting that he would be “devastated” if students were
unchaste and that he is “thrilled” by the sexual purity of the majority of
students. This use of diction represents two emotional extremes to enhance the
juxtaposition between promiscuity and chastity. Likewise, “horrors”, “terror”,
“crushing remorse and guilt” and “piecemeal dissipation” of virtue are
associated with sexual immorality in the course of the discourse. Though
popular culture may look lightly on sexual transgression, it is clear that
Elder Holland does not. The powerful, dark words reinforce the seriousness of sexual
sin.
Additionally, he stresses certain points by repeating and expanding
upon them multiple times. In describing sexual sin, he declares that God does
not want us to engage in these actions “illegally, illicitly, unfaithfully,
without sanction.” This particular idea is not allowed to pass quickly by; it
is reinforced to the audience, making it near impossible to ignore or miss.
Similarly, temple marriage is compared to being “united, bound, linked, tied,
welded, sealed” together. Elder Holland wants to strengthen this image in the
mind of his audience. If they remember nothing else, they can remember his
emphasis on the union of marriage. The importance of temple marriage is clearly
portrayed in this way.
Throughout his talk, Elder Holland’s powerful word choice and repetition
of ideas convey his earnest tone.
I liked your analysis of the word choice of his talk, and how through the use of certain words had a rhetorical impact. I also made comment in my post of his use of juxtaposition in certain words to have a bigger impact on the audience, and how they perceive the meaning of his words.
ReplyDeleteI agree, I think this what Elder Holland was trying to express. I believe his use of strong language was used as a wake up call for all young single adults. By his word choice and form of speech it would be harder to ignore his counsel than to live it. It is interesting that he can do so powerfully and not with too many words.
ReplyDeleteHis language of speech reminds me of the speakers/prophets in the scriptures. When they would speak with so much earnest in their heart.