Anna Quindlen Commencement Address Analysis

Have you spent your life on things that make it worth living? Are you simply existing in this life or are you living in it? Anna Quindlen in her Commencement Address at Villanova College forces us to ask ourselves these questions as she leaves long lasting imprints in the minds of the attendees and graduates. Quindlen’s use of rhetorical devices, personal stories, and quotes helps her express her main points, that one must make their life worth living and that life should never be taken for granted because there are so many things to live for. Throughout Qundlen’s speech she uses all three of the appeals to create a connection with her audience. First, she uses ethos to shape her character or image to the audience, she gives us the …show more content…
An example of one of these declarative statements is when she states that, “You will be the only person alive who has sole custody of your life,” showing us that we are in full control of our lives and we determine where they will go. Quindlen then proceeds to use imperative sentences which have meanings that correspond with her declarative sentences throughout the text. She uses her imperative sentences to call the audience to action, to encourage the audience into creating a life full of meaning, purpose, and love. We see this when Quindlen encourages us to,” Get a life in which you are not alone. Find people you love and who love you. Send an e-mail. Write a letter. Kiss your mom. Hug your dad.” Another strong use of syntax in the text is the use of repetition. There are statements such as, “your life”, “get a life”, and “I listen, I try to laugh”, that are constantly repeated to make a point, to set a rhythm, and to link topics or ideas throughout the