Rhetorical Criticism: Whisper of AIDS by Mary Fisher
Mary Fisher is American; political activist; mother, wife, author as well as artist who contracted AIDS from her husband. She since became an advocate for AIDS/ HIV victims; subsequently forming the Mary Fisher AIDS Research and Education Fund.( Fisher, 1995)
On 19th August, 1992 Mary Fisher passionately with a positive ethos delivered this, "Whisper of AIDS” address on the occasion of the National Republican Convention. She was best qualified to deliver this address on behalf of all AIDS sufferers around the world due her political affiliation and AIDS infected status.
The audience consisted mainly of politicians and policy makers who had to be sensitized towards the needs of a silent community paining with the virus. Clearly, this speech focused on the ruling Republican party and those seeking election. Emphatically, Fisher projected the necessity of lifting the covering off of AIDS/HIV as being a stigmatized disease to face reality.
It is no doubt that the speaker caught the attention of politicians present in the hall and millions of people across the nation and world who were listening. Importantly, she garnered the alternative by saying that even though a politician, applause was not the aim of her speaking, but rather attention.
This speech was supported by a distinct reference to Pastor Nemoellor who showed no concern for others since he was not affected by their troubles. Consequently, he did not participate in such drama with supportive action. Then, it happened that the tide of time turned to him and he had no back-up being selfishly wrapped up in his concerns only. (Fisher, 1992)
Precisely, the conclusive analogy is that when someone thinks it is all safety then, they are at risk according to Mary Fisher. No fallacious statements or reasoning can be clearly identified. However, liberal usage of metaphors inflicted by subtle humor tempered the overall tone of this speech which was delivered with commanding eloquence, poise, distinct vocal variety and appropriate gestures accompanied by a compassionate facial expression.
Works Cited
Fisher, Mary. My name is Mary Fisher: A Memoir. . . New York: Scribner. 1995. Print.
Fisher, Mary. "Whisper of AIDS." 1992 Republican National Convention Address, 1992. Web.
20th July 2011. <http://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/maryfisher1992rnc.html>.
