In Cold Blood Rhetorical Analysis

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“When it comes to murder, you can’t respect grief. Or privacy. Or personal feelings” (85).

The author uses the repetition of the word “or” to begin two sentences that effectively emphasize the sensitivity of the Clutters’ murder. Anaphora is used to appeal to the audience and generate a particular effect of understanding on them. The quote also introduces the difficulty that K.B.I. investigator, Harold Nye, is facing as he tries to interview the deceased’s relative; the problem is delaying the investigation of the murder. The effect of the crime on the entire town can be seen in this quote.

“It was after one of these beatings, one he could never forget…that the parrot appeared, arrived while he slept, a bird “taller than Jesus, yellow like a sunflower,” a warrior-angel who blinded the nuns with its beak, fed upon their eyes, slaughtered them as they “pleaded for mercy,” then so gently lifted him, enfolded him, winged him away to “paradise” (93). Capote uses symbolism to connect the significance of the reoccurring dream to Smith’s actions. The appearance of the parrot is crucial in supporting the description of Smith’s personality. The birds are known for their ability to imitate and this fact is relevant
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Diction greatly aids Capote in successfully comparing a voice with a powerful tranquilizer as it emphasizes on the fact that the two affect similar senses. He continues on, using creative word choices as an integral role in the way that Dick’s character is portrayed. Throughout the book, subtle evidence about Dick being a psychopath can be seen; psychopaths are known to be smooth talkers that know how to manipulate others’ emotions through their words. In addition, Capote has always acknowledged Perry’s submissive personality and this quote provides ample evidence to support the use of adjective in describing the

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