Ask Figaro
Got a question about rhetoric, figures, Figaro, Figaro's book,the nature of the universe, or just want to lavish praise?
Write in the form at the bottom of this page.
Dear Figaro,
I am trying to find a figure for the following quote: “A woman who has done good work in the scholastic world doesn’t like to be called a good woman scholar. Call her a good scholar and let it go at that. I have climbed 1,500 feet higher than any man in the United States. Don’t call me a woman mountain climber.”
I am thinking that this is a form of apophasis, since the person is in a way denying what she means, like Lance Armstrong does in your example. That said, is there some other figure that might better relate to the quote? Thanks in advance for your help.
Hannah
Dear Hannah,
That depends on whether your scholartrix literally climbed higher than those men. If her climbing was only figurative, then she is executing a high-altitude simile.
She probably didn't intend an apophasis here. But, as I say in my book (and I am definitely not hyping my book, THANK YOU FOR ARGUING, here), stating what you don't want your audience to think can actually have the opposite effect. I call it the reverse innuendo.
Fig.
I am trying to find a figure for the following quote: “A woman who has done good work in the scholastic world doesn’t like to be called a good woman scholar. Call her a good scholar and let it go at that. I have climbed 1,500 feet higher than any man in the United States. Don’t call me a woman mountain climber.”
I am thinking that this is a form of apophasis, since the person is in a way denying what she means, like Lance Armstrong does in your example. That said, is there some other figure that might better relate to the quote? Thanks in advance for your help.
Hannah
Dear Hannah,
That depends on whether your scholartrix literally climbed higher than those men. If her climbing was only figurative, then she is executing a high-altitude simile.
She probably didn't intend an apophasis here. But, as I say in my book (and I am definitely not hyping my book, THANK YOU FOR ARGUING, here), stating what you don't want your audience to think can actually have the opposite effect. I call it the reverse innuendo.
Fig.
February 14, 2010 |
Hannah
Hannah
Dear Figaro,
I would like to know what figure of speech 'boredom beating' falls under. thanx
Odirile
Dear Ody,
Figaro has never encountered such a beating,despite his masochistic tendencies. Your expression is an alliteration, of course, since both words start with the same letter. Assuming that the "beating" is a gerund (as in, "beating boredom"), then we're talking metaphor. Boredom is a metaphorical body that you're hitting with a figurative stick.
BUT...
If your "beating" is a plain old noun (as in, "taking a beating"), then your assault is the boredom itself. You're boring your victim to a pulp. In that case, it's a less boring metaphor. Because it's also a form of hyperbole.
Bored yet?
Fig.
I would like to know what figure of speech 'boredom beating' falls under. thanx
Odirile
Dear Ody,
Figaro has never encountered such a beating,despite his masochistic tendencies. Your expression is an alliteration, of course, since both words start with the same letter. Assuming that the "beating" is a gerund (as in, "beating boredom"), then we're talking metaphor. Boredom is a metaphorical body that you're hitting with a figurative stick.
BUT...
If your "beating" is a plain old noun (as in, "taking a beating"), then your assault is the boredom itself. You're boring your victim to a pulp. In that case, it's a less boring metaphor. Because it's also a form of hyperbole.
Bored yet?
Fig.
February 13, 2010 |
odirile
odirile
Dear Figaro,
Speaking about President Obama: "This same reluctance to get tough, or even mildly sweaty, is felt in America's dealings with other nations." What is the rhetorical device being used here?
Anonymous
Dear Anon,
The Economist is using a metonymy when it refers to a mildly sweaty president. It's the sneakiest of the master tropes (metaphor, irony, metonymy, synecdoche), because people rarely recognize it. The paper doesn't literally mean the president should perspire. Sweating stands in this case for aggressive effort.
Figaro, for his part, doesn't sweat. He glows.
Speaking about President Obama: "This same reluctance to get tough, or even mildly sweaty, is felt in America's dealings with other nations." What is the rhetorical device being used here?
Anonymous
Dear Anon,
The Economist is using a metonymy when it refers to a mildly sweaty president. It's the sneakiest of the master tropes (metaphor, irony, metonymy, synecdoche), because people rarely recognize it. The paper doesn't literally mean the president should perspire. Sweating stands in this case for aggressive effort.
Figaro, for his part, doesn't sweat. He glows.
January 23, 2010 |
The Economist, January 16 2010 edition
The Economist, January 16 2010 edition
Dear Figaro,
I recall reading once that using two forms of a word, ex. strong followed by stronger, is a rhetorical device, but it's deuced difficult to look up a term when you can't recall its name! ( I'm rereading Claudius's soliloquy from Hamlet..."my stronger guilt defeats my strong intent"). Can you help me out?
Thanks!
Carrie
Dear Carrie,
The figure you have in mind is a polyptoton. Type that into the search bar on the right, and Figaro figures that you'll get the particulars. (Unwitty polyptoton intended.)
I did the "Ten Uses for Figures" section to help you find stuff like that. Less than ideal, but it should help your sleuthing.
Fig.
I recall reading once that using two forms of a word, ex. strong followed by stronger, is a rhetorical device, but it's deuced difficult to look up a term when you can't recall its name! ( I'm rereading Claudius's soliloquy from Hamlet..."my stronger guilt defeats my strong intent"). Can you help me out?
Thanks!
Carrie
Dear Carrie,
The figure you have in mind is a polyptoton. Type that into the search bar on the right, and Figaro figures that you'll get the particulars. (Unwitty polyptoton intended.)
I did the "Ten Uses for Figures" section to help you find stuff like that. Less than ideal, but it should help your sleuthing.
Fig.
December 9, 2009 |
Carrie
Carrie
Hi there,
I have just worked with a poem in class, and I have a problem:
I cannot find the right name for a literary device, and I would
like your help, because this is not the first time I encounter the problem.
Quite often, when analyzing literary texts in detail, one finds characteristics of "tangible" objects are applied to abstract nouns, e.g. "dense silence". I cannot think of any term to refer to this device. I guess it is some type of "metaphorical slippage", but I cannot give it a name. The closest figure of speech I've found is "synesthesia," but that does only imply "crossing" the sense boundary (e.g. red noise), not the abstract-concrete boundary. Can you think of any term (figure of speech) that answers my question?
Thanks a million. By the by, I don't think we can "count" gratitude ;-)
Bego
Dear Bego,
Though terms exist for animating objects, giving life to the unliving, Figaro knows of none devoted specifically to taking the "in" out of "inchoate."
But wait: you're talking about turning unreality into reality, right? The devices that cross the bounds of reality are tropes, not figures: metaphor, irony, synecdoche, and metonymy.
Calling silence "dense" only works if the reader converts that silence into something real--a blanket, or stifling atmosphere, say. And what do you have when you weave silence into bedclothes? A nice warm metaphor.
As for your gratitude, one can't count it any more than one can count water. But as with love, one can measure it. I love you thiiiiis much, man.
Fig.
I have just worked with a poem in class, and I have a problem:
I cannot find the right name for a literary device, and I would
like your help, because this is not the first time I encounter the problem.
Quite often, when analyzing literary texts in detail, one finds characteristics of "tangible" objects are applied to abstract nouns, e.g. "dense silence". I cannot think of any term to refer to this device. I guess it is some type of "metaphorical slippage", but I cannot give it a name. The closest figure of speech I've found is "synesthesia," but that does only imply "crossing" the sense boundary (e.g. red noise), not the abstract-concrete boundary. Can you think of any term (figure of speech) that answers my question?
Thanks a million. By the by, I don't think we can "count" gratitude ;-)
Bego
Dear Bego,
Though terms exist for animating objects, giving life to the unliving, Figaro knows of none devoted specifically to taking the "in" out of "inchoate."
But wait: you're talking about turning unreality into reality, right? The devices that cross the bounds of reality are tropes, not figures: metaphor, irony, synecdoche, and metonymy.
Calling silence "dense" only works if the reader converts that silence into something real--a blanket, or stifling atmosphere, say. And what do you have when you weave silence into bedclothes? A nice warm metaphor.
As for your gratitude, one can't count it any more than one can count water. But as with love, one can measure it. I love you thiiiiis much, man.
Fig.
December 3, 2009 |
Bego
Bego
Dear Figaro,
Wonderful site! So glad that I found it.
In Rochefort's "Les Petits enfants du siecle," the narrator visits a new housing project (Sarcelles) under construction and says "houses, houses, houses, houses, houses."
The repetition of the word is meant to parallel the multitude of identical houses being built. Is this "palilogia"? There are many figures of repetition but I'm looking for the one whose intent is to emphasize the great number of things.
In the same book, there's a long long long passage (see what I mean?) where some guys argue about the merits and disadvantages of various automobiles. It's a real sort of pissing contest, each participant keen to show he knows more than the others. Not so different from a conversation you might hear about an NFL team today. Anyway, for normal readers, this passage is long and tedious. I think that the narrator wants readers to feel the same boredom that she felt hearing it. There must be a name for this strategy, no? (Imagine how ineffective "Waiting for Godot" would be if it were a 10-minute sketch.)
Kirk
Dear Kirk,
Is this a great site or what? Where else can you wax on Rochefort and football in the same breath?
The answer to your "houses" question is yes, but. It IS a palilogia--repetition of a word for emphasis--but it's also a form of enargia, the special-effects part of rhetoric. By repeating house after house, Rochefort makes you SEE house after house before your very eyes.
The ennui-tastic device of using boring language to portray boredom could be seen as a form of mimesis, or imitation. Figaro does it frequently, but rarely on purpose.
Fig.
Wonderful site! So glad that I found it.
In Rochefort's "Les Petits enfants du siecle," the narrator visits a new housing project (Sarcelles) under construction and says "houses, houses, houses, houses, houses."
The repetition of the word is meant to parallel the multitude of identical houses being built. Is this "palilogia"? There are many figures of repetition but I'm looking for the one whose intent is to emphasize the great number of things.
In the same book, there's a long long long passage (see what I mean?) where some guys argue about the merits and disadvantages of various automobiles. It's a real sort of pissing contest, each participant keen to show he knows more than the others. Not so different from a conversation you might hear about an NFL team today. Anyway, for normal readers, this passage is long and tedious. I think that the narrator wants readers to feel the same boredom that she felt hearing it. There must be a name for this strategy, no? (Imagine how ineffective "Waiting for Godot" would be if it were a 10-minute sketch.)
Kirk
Dear Kirk,
Is this a great site or what? Where else can you wax on Rochefort and football in the same breath?
The answer to your "houses" question is yes, but. It IS a palilogia--repetition of a word for emphasis--but it's also a form of enargia, the special-effects part of rhetoric. By repeating house after house, Rochefort makes you SEE house after house before your very eyes.
The ennui-tastic device of using boring language to portray boredom could be seen as a form of mimesis, or imitation. Figaro does it frequently, but rarely on purpose.
Fig.
November 26, 2009 |
Kirk Anderson
Kirk Anderson
DEAR FIGARO,
While it is predictable that Palin would dish away - the book is a memoir, after all - she tells Barbara Walters:
"I was wearing my annoyance on my sleeve and I shouldn't have done that . . . My fault, my bad that I answered the way that I did"
- a quote that simply does not sound like she "blames everyone but herself for the disastrous Katie Couric interview."
In fact, it sounds like the antithesis. (I looked it up in your Glossary.) If I'm wrong, I'm sure those Greeks have some figure to put me in my place.
Meanwhile, thanks so much for the book. For the past two years it has been my favorite gift-giving surprise. But - a question - is it available as a download to my Ipod Touch?
Peter
DEAR PETER,
You're right. Figaro, being a member of the Media, couldn't help but be unfair to an American like ex-Gov. Palin. It's downright Pavlovian. He'll try to fight that reflex next time; or, better yet, avoid writing about her until she runs for President. Then all bets are off, of course.
Thanks for the kind words on the book. I used all the tricks in my book to persuade the publisher to do an Audible version, but failed. Kindle, yes. IPod, no.
Fig.
While it is predictable that Palin would dish away - the book is a memoir, after all - she tells Barbara Walters:
"I was wearing my annoyance on my sleeve and I shouldn't have done that . . . My fault, my bad that I answered the way that I did"
- a quote that simply does not sound like she "blames everyone but herself for the disastrous Katie Couric interview."
In fact, it sounds like the antithesis. (I looked it up in your Glossary.) If I'm wrong, I'm sure those Greeks have some figure to put me in my place.
Meanwhile, thanks so much for the book. For the past two years it has been my favorite gift-giving surprise. But - a question - is it available as a download to my Ipod Touch?
Peter
DEAR PETER,
You're right. Figaro, being a member of the Media, couldn't help but be unfair to an American like ex-Gov. Palin. It's downright Pavlovian. He'll try to fight that reflex next time; or, better yet, avoid writing about her until she runs for President. Then all bets are off, of course.
Thanks for the kind words on the book. I used all the tricks in my book to persuade the publisher to do an Audible version, but failed. Kindle, yes. IPod, no.
Fig.
November 21, 2009 |
Peter
Peter
DEAR FIGARO,
Thank you for your book, which has given me new insight into how to apply rhetoric. I teach a composition class, and find it very odd that the majority of readers do not deal with rhetoric, as this ancient art comprises the nuts and bolts of communication. (Plus, those readers are so boring, and given their lack of depth, cannot fully teach writers the full range of freedom involved in communication.) So, I am making an effort to learn the techniques in your book.
I was recently directed to a billboard-type comment given publicity on HuffPo: "Areyou good without God? Millions are." (at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/21/non-believers-take-fight_n_328445.html).
Is this an example of an implied dilemma?
While I understand that implied dilemmas are not fallacies, the manipulation of the asking is definitely trite. Is the best answer to such a question another question? (Of the kind cited on your site, such as the rhetorical question example: Everyone is always right: isn't that always the way in America?) Or would there be a better response?
Thank you for your time and attention.
Katherine
DEAR KATHERINE,
It would be difficult to dismiss the God/good question as an implied (or false) dilemma, since it attempts to answer a dilemma presented by the faithful: believe, or live in sin.
As a lifelong sinner, Figaro prefers to spend his theological time thinking about arguing WITH God. His favorite book in the Bible is Job--until the end, when God answers Job's (pretty darn airtight) case with an argumentum ad fortiori.
Did that sufficiently duck your question? Mea maxima culpa.
Fig.
Thank you for your book, which has given me new insight into how to apply rhetoric. I teach a composition class, and find it very odd that the majority of readers do not deal with rhetoric, as this ancient art comprises the nuts and bolts of communication. (Plus, those readers are so boring, and given their lack of depth, cannot fully teach writers the full range of freedom involved in communication.) So, I am making an effort to learn the techniques in your book.
I was recently directed to a billboard-type comment given publicity on HuffPo: "Areyou good without God? Millions are." (at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/21/non-believers-take-fight_n_328445.html).
Is this an example of an implied dilemma?
While I understand that implied dilemmas are not fallacies, the manipulation of the asking is definitely trite. Is the best answer to such a question another question? (Of the kind cited on your site, such as the rhetorical question example: Everyone is always right: isn't that always the way in America?) Or would there be a better response?
Thank you for your time and attention.
Katherine
DEAR KATHERINE,
It would be difficult to dismiss the God/good question as an implied (or false) dilemma, since it attempts to answer a dilemma presented by the faithful: believe, or live in sin.
As a lifelong sinner, Figaro prefers to spend his theological time thinking about arguing WITH God. His favorite book in the Bible is Job--until the end, when God answers Job's (pretty darn airtight) case with an argumentum ad fortiori.
Did that sufficiently duck your question? Mea maxima culpa.
Fig.
October 23, 2009 |
Katherine
Katherine
MR. HEINRICHS,
I just finished your book and wanted to take a moment to commend you on it. You are a very talented author and I hope to read more from you. I have already tagged your site and will visit often.
A short story if you are interested, After I finished your book I found myself looking for opportunities to use what I had learned. My employer uses "code words" such as "hustle," "system," and "rascal". (I didn't use that last one on him.) He also uses annoying phrases, "Put your shoulder to the plow! Keep your gloves up!" He preaches self sacrifice to the team and practicing on your own time. (We do construction. When do I get to "practice on my own time?")
After reading your book, I went into work and "hustled." When he came to the job and commended me just like every other day I said, "Well sir, last night I was sitting at home and I started to think of ways to better my system so the team could get more done. Then I got in here today, put my shoulder to the plow and tried to put more weight on my shoulders." (All this while wearing khakis and a button up shirt, just like him.)
I got my percentages raised to 40% and $3 added to my hourly.
Karl J. Stalker III
DEAR MR. STALKER,
Although your last name would alarm the more timid author, your story illustrates the single more important thing about learning rhetoric, other than saving the country: it can instantly boost your income without any additional effort on your part. (Aristotle personally commends this sort of argument.)
Jay
I just finished your book and wanted to take a moment to commend you on it. You are a very talented author and I hope to read more from you. I have already tagged your site and will visit often.
A short story if you are interested, After I finished your book I found myself looking for opportunities to use what I had learned. My employer uses "code words" such as "hustle," "system," and "rascal". (I didn't use that last one on him.) He also uses annoying phrases, "Put your shoulder to the plow! Keep your gloves up!" He preaches self sacrifice to the team and practicing on your own time. (We do construction. When do I get to "practice on my own time?")
After reading your book, I went into work and "hustled." When he came to the job and commended me just like every other day I said, "Well sir, last night I was sitting at home and I started to think of ways to better my system so the team could get more done. Then I got in here today, put my shoulder to the plow and tried to put more weight on my shoulders." (All this while wearing khakis and a button up shirt, just like him.)
I got my percentages raised to 40% and $3 added to my hourly.
Karl J. Stalker III
DEAR MR. STALKER,
Although your last name would alarm the more timid author, your story illustrates the single more important thing about learning rhetoric, other than saving the country: it can instantly boost your income without any additional effort on your part. (Aristotle personally commends this sort of argument.)
Jay
October 7, 2009 |
Karl Stalker III
Karl Stalker III
DEAR FIGARO,
Why are you using a bold font to emphasize?
I find it really frustrating to avoid the bold emphasis. When you are using a serif typeface, you might actually be better off with an italicized font. This doesn't distract your reader and doesn't make the rest of the text disappear.
Ferrix
DEAR FERRIX,
Figaro's preference for boldface reflects the bold face he presents to the world. He'd rather not have people know that, deep inside, he's a quivering mess of italics.
Fig.
Why are you using a bold font to emphasize?
I find it really frustrating to avoid the bold emphasis. When you are using a serif typeface, you might actually be better off with an italicized font. This doesn't distract your reader and doesn't make the rest of the text disappear.
Ferrix
DEAR FERRIX,
Figaro's preference for boldface reflects the bold face he presents to the world. He'd rather not have people know that, deep inside, he's a quivering mess of italics.
Fig.
September 3, 2009 |
Ferrix
Ferrix
DEAR FIGARO,
What would you call these?
"That car is in mint condition." (the car was also painted mint green)
"Global warming legislation is really starting to heat up."
"The city bus system will soon begin ramping up service for the handicap."
Are these adianoeta? Or are they simply double entendre since the irony is not contradictory? I was incorrectly calling them puns for a while; I'd love to know if they have a rhetorical name or category! Also, is there a different name for these if they are intended versus unintended?
Lisa
DEAR LISA,
Although classical rhetoricians may not agree, Figaro puts puns in three categories: double entendres, near-puns, and puns with a restraining order. Near-puns have their very own Greek name, PARONOMASIA. Unintended humor--the kind that backfires--Figaro calls BOEHNERS, after the congressman who turned his own boners into a reverse eponymn.
Fig.
What would you call these?
"That car is in mint condition." (the car was also painted mint green)
"Global warming legislation is really starting to heat up."
"The city bus system will soon begin ramping up service for the handicap."
Are these adianoeta? Or are they simply double entendre since the irony is not contradictory? I was incorrectly calling them puns for a while; I'd love to know if they have a rhetorical name or category! Also, is there a different name for these if they are intended versus unintended?
Lisa
DEAR LISA,
Although classical rhetoricians may not agree, Figaro puts puns in three categories: double entendres, near-puns, and puns with a restraining order. Near-puns have their very own Greek name, PARONOMASIA. Unintended humor--the kind that backfires--Figaro calls BOEHNERS, after the congressman who turned his own boners into a reverse eponymn.
Fig.
August 16, 2009 |
Lisa
Lisa
DEAR JAY,
I beg to disagree with a quote from you in the August '09 issue of Reader's Digest , namely "when a mechanic says your car needs more than a tune-up, you might get a second opinion, In fact, always get a second opinion, whether it's about your car, your health, or your teenager". I'll agree to your health or your teenager, but not about the car - 'always'.
If you have to question your mechanic 'every time' he advises you on car repairs Jay, trust me, you need to find another mechanic! In fact, what if the 2nd opinion is as wrong as the 1st opinion, or what if you get 2 different opinions? Who do you believe? Should you get a 3rd opinion? Where will this end?
Let me throw out a novel idea. An honest, reputable, professional shop that knows how to properly diagnose car troubles and treat clients with respect will provide sound advise and reap the rewards of a busy shop. Don't get me wrong, we don't live in a perfect world, and in the event that they misdiagnose a problem, the type of shop I am talking about will not charge for the incorrect repair, but will realize the goodwill created by such selfless dealings in more business. I speak from experience, because I own such a shop, and my customers will attest to that fact. Don't take my word for this; read the 45 plus comments on Good Day LA's HOT LIST 'myfoxla.com' where we were voted Inland Empire's favorite auto repair shop. I am not trying to beat you up here, but instead am trying to help the many people dazed and confused about automotive repair and the frustrations of the shady operators out there making the rest of us look bad.
If you ever need any advise on automotive repair, Jay, please feel free to contact me - Harvey Van Egmond, owner of Harvey's Autotech in Corona, CA - 951-737-9878. Thanks for listening to me argue, and please respond!
Harvey
DEAR HARVEY,
That's the kind of self-plug that warms Figaro's heart. I usually rent cars when I'm in CA, being as how I live in NH. But I'll take you up on that advice next time my 1990 Chevy truck needs repair. Which, I'm afraid, is frequently.
Jay
I beg to disagree with a quote from you in the August '09 issue of Reader's Digest , namely "when a mechanic says your car needs more than a tune-up, you might get a second opinion, In fact, always get a second opinion, whether it's about your car, your health, or your teenager". I'll agree to your health or your teenager, but not about the car - 'always'.
If you have to question your mechanic 'every time' he advises you on car repairs Jay, trust me, you need to find another mechanic! In fact, what if the 2nd opinion is as wrong as the 1st opinion, or what if you get 2 different opinions? Who do you believe? Should you get a 3rd opinion? Where will this end?
Let me throw out a novel idea. An honest, reputable, professional shop that knows how to properly diagnose car troubles and treat clients with respect will provide sound advise and reap the rewards of a busy shop. Don't get me wrong, we don't live in a perfect world, and in the event that they misdiagnose a problem, the type of shop I am talking about will not charge for the incorrect repair, but will realize the goodwill created by such selfless dealings in more business. I speak from experience, because I own such a shop, and my customers will attest to that fact. Don't take my word for this; read the 45 plus comments on Good Day LA's HOT LIST 'myfoxla.com' where we were voted Inland Empire's favorite auto repair shop. I am not trying to beat you up here, but instead am trying to help the many people dazed and confused about automotive repair and the frustrations of the shady operators out there making the rest of us look bad.
If you ever need any advise on automotive repair, Jay, please feel free to contact me - Harvey Van Egmond, owner of Harvey's Autotech in Corona, CA - 951-737-9878. Thanks for listening to me argue, and please respond!
Harvey
DEAR HARVEY,
That's the kind of self-plug that warms Figaro's heart. I usually rent cars when I'm in CA, being as how I live in NH. But I'll take you up on that advice next time my 1990 Chevy truck needs repair. Which, I'm afraid, is frequently.
Jay
August 7, 2009 |
Harvey Van Egmond
Harvey Van Egmond
DEAR SIR,
I wondered if you might like a mutual link to my English word website or press release details of my ensuing book with Penguin Press on amusing and interesting English vocabulary? www.thewonderofwhiffling.com
with best wishes,
Adam Jacot de Boinod (author of The Meaning of Tingo)
adamjacot@fastmail.co.uk
DEAR ADAM,
Penguin published the UK edition of Thank You for Arguing, which makes us, um, publishing housemates. I'd love to learn more about whiffling and tingo.
JAY
I wondered if you might like a mutual link to my English word website or press release details of my ensuing book with Penguin Press on amusing and interesting English vocabulary? www.thewonderofwhiffling.com
with best wishes,
Adam Jacot de Boinod (author of The Meaning of Tingo)
adamjacot@fastmail.co.uk
DEAR ADAM,
Penguin published the UK edition of Thank You for Arguing, which makes us, um, publishing housemates. I'd love to learn more about whiffling and tingo.
JAY
August 6, 2009 |
adam jacot de boinod
adam jacot de boinod
DEAR FIGARO,
I am a music composition professor and have found that some of the Rhetorical figures work well with the musical themes my students write. I'm interested in finding the most commonly used Rhetorical tropes or figures in language today so that I can adapt them into composition exercises for my students. Any ideas about how I might find something like this?
Charles
DEAR CHARLES,
You stand on the shoulders of such giants as Johann Sebastian Bach, who consciously worked figures into his compositions. As for the more common figures (figures and tropes are not quite the same thing), click on the "10 Ways to Use Figures" link at the top of this page. There you'll find the more common figures organized around 10 uses--including sounds and rhythm.
Fig.
I am a music composition professor and have found that some of the Rhetorical figures work well with the musical themes my students write. I'm interested in finding the most commonly used Rhetorical tropes or figures in language today so that I can adapt them into composition exercises for my students. Any ideas about how I might find something like this?
Charles
DEAR CHARLES,
You stand on the shoulders of such giants as Johann Sebastian Bach, who consciously worked figures into his compositions. As for the more common figures (figures and tropes are not quite the same thing), click on the "10 Ways to Use Figures" link at the top of this page. There you'll find the more common figures organized around 10 uses--including sounds and rhythm.
Fig.
July 27, 2009 |
Charles Rochester Young
Charles Rochester Young
DEAR FIGARO,
Thank you for the article on teaching children how to argue! I Stumbled, I read, I laughed and laughed! I could not agree more! I posted this link on Twitter. I thumbs up on Stumble. I'll post to FB next! I read incessantly, but very rarely post a comment or share on all my Social Media favorites!
As a parent of 2 daughters (ages 3 - 5) I have always encouraged them to discuss, negotiate and find a way to get the other person to agree with you. Until now, I have not used the 3 types of debate (but will starting today!) and they both know the rules of "calling foul" however we haven't called it that before today.
Here in the MidWest, I am often told that I am "wrong" by encouraging my munchkins to negotiate, as in they should "just do what they are told". yeah right! It doesn't work with adults, or in the work world, or in college - so why should I encourage it in my children.
There is a BIG difference between intelligent argument or debate and disrespect or "talking back". I never forget that I am raising my girls to be "released into the wild" and what better way then to prepare them to debate and negotiate!
Thank you for reinforcing what I KNEW to be right!! You Rock!!
Christina
GoogleJuice (on Twitter)
DEAR CHRISTINA,
We live to reinforce you.Thanks for the kind words.
FIG.
Thank you for the article on teaching children how to argue! I Stumbled, I read, I laughed and laughed! I could not agree more! I posted this link on Twitter. I thumbs up on Stumble. I'll post to FB next! I read incessantly, but very rarely post a comment or share on all my Social Media favorites!
As a parent of 2 daughters (ages 3 - 5) I have always encouraged them to discuss, negotiate and find a way to get the other person to agree with you. Until now, I have not used the 3 types of debate (but will starting today!) and they both know the rules of "calling foul" however we haven't called it that before today.
Here in the MidWest, I am often told that I am "wrong" by encouraging my munchkins to negotiate, as in they should "just do what they are told". yeah right! It doesn't work with adults, or in the work world, or in college - so why should I encourage it in my children.
There is a BIG difference between intelligent argument or debate and disrespect or "talking back". I never forget that I am raising my girls to be "released into the wild" and what better way then to prepare them to debate and negotiate!
Thank you for reinforcing what I KNEW to be right!! You Rock!!
Christina
GoogleJuice (on Twitter)
DEAR CHRISTINA,
We live to reinforce you.Thanks for the kind words.
FIG.
July 17, 2009 |
Christina
Christina
Dear Figaro,
Why do people no longer pronounce the word 'the' as 'thee' before vowels? It sounds so hick and ugly.
[Theh End]
DEAR BOO,
We would not be rude enough to retort that "Boo" does not exactly sound urbane.
Fig.
Why do people no longer pronounce the word 'the' as 'thee' before vowels? It sounds so hick and ugly.
[Theh End]
DEAR BOO,
We would not be rude enough to retort that "Boo" does not exactly sound urbane.
Fig.
July 2, 2009 |
Boo Gosling
Boo Gosling
Thank you for your book
i found my first copy in the back of my uncles car, i flipped to the section (How to Seduce a Cop)
i was then seduced into getting my own copy, having no ideal what kind of world, i was stepping into.
Your book has opened the doors of Rhetoric to me and i am amazed in all that there is. The power that lies in Rhetoric seems immense and incredible.
Thank you for opening this world to me
P.S. Do you have any advice on how a 16 year-old can learn and master Rhetoric?
DEAR NICK,
Your best bet is to apply to colleges with strong rhetoric programs. Which, alas, means, avoiding the most prestigious private schools. The good news is, land grant universities tend to have excellent rhetoric departments. Start there.
Fig.
i found my first copy in the back of my uncles car, i flipped to the section (How to Seduce a Cop)
i was then seduced into getting my own copy, having no ideal what kind of world, i was stepping into.
Your book has opened the doors of Rhetoric to me and i am amazed in all that there is. The power that lies in Rhetoric seems immense and incredible.
Thank you for opening this world to me
P.S. Do you have any advice on how a 16 year-old can learn and master Rhetoric?
DEAR NICK,
Your best bet is to apply to colleges with strong rhetoric programs. Which, alas, means, avoiding the most prestigious private schools. The good news is, land grant universities tend to have excellent rhetoric departments. Start there.
Fig.
June 26, 2009 |
Nick Reel
Nick Reel
Dear Figaro:
I teach AP English English Language and Composition, and this coming year (actually, for summer reading), we'll be delving into your book. It's required for my course. Now, I need help, ideas, game plans, etc. I've printed your discussion questions. Just wondering if you would take the book in the order you've written it (probably a d'uh there). I also teach (alongside the AP course) American Lit, and that last chapter is very appealing to start with. I teach American Lit in chronological order, so we'll be analyzing the Founding Fathers' speeches, etc. Anyway, I finished your book today and feel pretty rhetorical for promoting both your book and rhetoric in my classroom. I just want to do justice to your material!
Thanks, Jan
DEAR JAN,
I just (belatedly) answered your note by email. Teachers out there should know that I'm willing to hold phone-ins with classes that adopt my book.
Fig.
I teach AP English English Language and Composition, and this coming year (actually, for summer reading), we'll be delving into your book. It's required for my course. Now, I need help, ideas, game plans, etc. I've printed your discussion questions. Just wondering if you would take the book in the order you've written it (probably a d'uh there). I also teach (alongside the AP course) American Lit, and that last chapter is very appealing to start with. I teach American Lit in chronological order, so we'll be analyzing the Founding Fathers' speeches, etc. Anyway, I finished your book today and feel pretty rhetorical for promoting both your book and rhetoric in my classroom. I just want to do justice to your material!
Thanks, Jan
DEAR JAN,
I just (belatedly) answered your note by email. Teachers out there should know that I'm willing to hold phone-ins with classes that adopt my book.
Fig.
June 6, 2009 |
Jan C
Jan C
Dear Figaro,
Hey, you encourage your kids to argue, http://www.figarospeech.com/teach-a-kid-to-argue/, but don't have on page comments? Seems contrary.
Anyhow, my eldest is nearly 4 - I tell him if he doesn't like what we ask he has to say, this I try and encourage argument. Unfortunately the school tell him he must do things "first time", oh well. Any suggestions for encouraging him to think about his objections more; what did you do with your kids (who it seems are much older) at this stage?
Dear PB,
They are much older, but I remember their horrible fours as if it were yesterday. I always told my children, "If you don't want to do something, do it badly the first time." Hey, it worked.
I also tried to establish a policy of the "default no." Whenever they asked for something, the answer was no--but subject to change if they talked me into it. I'm hoping to write a book on rhetorical child-rearing in the months to come.
Jay
Hey, you encourage your kids to argue, http://www.figarospeech.com/teach-a-kid-to-argue/, but don't have on page comments? Seems contrary.
Anyhow, my eldest is nearly 4 - I tell him if he doesn't like what we ask he has to say, this I try and encourage argument. Unfortunately the school tell him he must do things "first time", oh well. Any suggestions for encouraging him to think about his objections more; what did you do with your kids (who it seems are much older) at this stage?
Dear PB,
They are much older, but I remember their horrible fours as if it were yesterday. I always told my children, "If you don't want to do something, do it badly the first time." Hey, it worked.
I also tried to establish a policy of the "default no." Whenever they asked for something, the answer was no--but subject to change if they talked me into it. I'm hoping to write a book on rhetorical child-rearing in the months to come.
Jay
May 29, 2009 |
pbhj
pbhj
After reading one of my favorite comic strips, "Get Fuzzy", I recalled a term that I have not heard in years, that term being "feghoot". In the comic strip a man has conversations with his dog and cat. The dog is somewhat dim, and the cat always manages to mangle the English language. Two Sundays in a row the cat tells a long story ending in a pun, one week the punch line is "never cover a judge with his book", the next Sunday was "never book a judge with his cover". These pun-ending stories are groaners, shaggy dog stories, or feghoots. A club I belonged to would run a monthly feghoot column, but that was in the early '80s, and I have not heard the name since. Comment?
Love your site.
Arthur
DEAR ARTHUR,
While Figaro loves the punned cliche (he once proudly wrote a magazine headline, "Hale, Britannia? Britannia Waives the Rules"), he must confess to having been ignorant of the term "Feghoot."
It seems that Feghoot is an eponym for Ferdinand Feghoot, a science fiction character invented in the mid-1950s by Reginald Bretnor under the gnome de plum Grendel Briarton. Feghoot went on short intergalactic missions for the Society for the Aesthetic Re-Arrangement of History, with each shaggy-dog tale ending in an outrageous, cliche-based pun. Time Magazine carried a Feghoot headline in 1971, when China became a member of the U.N.: "China in the Bull Shop."
While the Feghoot technically includes a very short story, we hereby declare that the punchline alone qualifies as a figure of speech under that name.
You may find this hard to swallow; but Figaro is the bastard of his own ptomaine.
Fig.