Rhetorical Analysis On Surfrider

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Every year eight million tons of plastic trash end up in the ocean (National Geographic), and every year little is done to stop the destruction of this resource. As trash continues to pour into what happens to be the most relied on resource, humans continue to stand idle and witness the atrocity. While it has become evident that many are not aware of this issue, or simply do not care, organizations such as “Surfrider” have taken on the tedious task of bringing this travesty to attention of others. Surfrider is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving oceans around the world. As part of their campaign, Surfrider published a strong and effective advertisement in hopes of convincing viewers to halt the destruction of the ocean. This advertisement effectively utilizes various rhetorical devices such as imagery to provoke pathos, an anaphora, and …show more content…

However, after studying the imagery on the PSA longer, it becomes clear that the sushi is no ordinary sushi. Rather, the sushi is actually made from pieces of trash instead of seafood. By using this play on imagery, Surfrider provokes pathos in the form of guilt as the audience begins to realize that their irresponsible personal life choices seem to be catching up to them. All of a sudden the issue of polluted oceans transitions from being a distant issue solely for sea life, to a personal problem. This shame continues to reside with them as they consciously make better environmentally friendly choices going forward. Furthermore, with a concern for their own health influencing their emotions, the audience feels obligated to educate themselves on the topic. This fulfills Surfriders purpose as their ashamed victims are hit with a sense of realization that their own health is at risk, consequently urging them to take action in cleaning up the landfill that we call the

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