David Foster Wallace’s commencement speech, “This is Water,” delivered at Kenyon College in 2005, is often regarded as a masterclass in rhetorical finesse. In just over twenty minutes, Wallace manages to convey profound insights about the nature of consciousness, empathy, and the mundane challenges of adult life. His ability to engage an audience—comprised mostly of fresh graduates eager for guidance—demonstrates not only his skill as a writer but also his profound understanding of human experience. This essay explores how Wallace employs various rhetorical strategies to communicate his message effectively, creating a lasting impact on listeners and readers alike.
The Power of Anecdote
One of the standout features of Wallace’s speech is his use of personal anecdotes. By sharing relatable stories about everyday experiences—like driving in traffic or doing grocery shopping—he taps into shared frustrations that many people encounter. These anecdotes serve a dual purpose: they make his points more tangible and accessible while also establishing a connection with his audience. When he talks about the “default setting” we all have—the tendency to see ourselves as the center of our universe—listeners can easily identify with this notion because it resonates on such a personal level.
Wallace’s choice to delve into these commonplace scenarios underscores one of his central messages: life is filled with ordinary moments that can either feel mundane or be viewed through a lens of awareness and compassion. By framing the importance of consciousness within these familiar contexts, he invites graduates to reconsider their perspectives rather than delivering abstract philosophical concepts that may alienate them.
Addressing Assumptions
Another effective rhetorical strategy employed by Wallace is directly addressing common assumptions held by graduates. He acknowledges that many students likely believe they are now equipped with critical thinking skills after years in academia; however, he quickly dispels this notion by emphasizing that true awareness requires conscious effort and practice beyond intellectual learning.
This approach works remarkably well because it challenges the audience without condescension; instead, it engages them in self-reflection. He presents the idea that real education involves recognizing our biases and habits—a point particularly relevant for new graduates stepping into an adult world rife with complexities and responsibilities. This strategy not only enhances credibility but also fosters humility among listeners who may otherwise feel overconfident in their newfound knowledge.
The Use of Repetition
Repetition plays a vital role in reinforcing key themes throughout Wallace’s address. The phrase “This is water” itself becomes a mantra—a reminder to remain aware amid life’s distractions and routines. By repeating this simple yet powerful phrase at critical junctures in his speech, he emphasizes its significance while encouraging listeners to internalize its meaning.
This technique not only aids retention but also creates an emotional resonance within the audience. It transforms abstract concepts into something palpable; when Wallace reiterates “This is water,” listeners are reminded that they must consciously choose how they perceive their surroundings and engage with others daily.
The Role of Empathy
At its core, “This is Water” champions empathy as essential for navigating adult life successfully. Wallace insists on looking beyond oneself and recognizing the struggles faced by others—a poignant message given today’s often isolating societal climate. He argues that most people are trapped in their own narratives; hence, making an effort to understand different perspectives enriches one’s own experience.
In employing rhetorical questions throughout this section—for example, asking why we should care about others’ suffering—Wallace compels listeners to actively engage with his ideas rather than passively consume them.
A Call to Consciousness
The culmination of these rhetorical devices results in what can be described as a call for heightened consciousness—the ultimate takeaway from Wallace’s speech. He urges graduates not merely to exist but rather live intentionally by choosing how they think about their experiences.
By fostering awareness through both reflection on personal anecdotes and addressing deeply held assumptions head-on, he leaves no room for complacency among attendees entering adulthood.
This appeal resonates particularly well because it recognizes human fallibility while simultaneously offering hope—that change begins within us individually if we commit ourselves fully each day.
Wallace understands all too well how easy it can be simply go through motions without ever questioning one’s mindset or actions; therefore asserting accountability alongside understanding becomes paramount for leading fulfilling lives.”
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
In conclusion, David Foster Wallace’s “This Is Water” exemplifies exceptional rhetorical mastery through its nuanced use of anecdote, direct engagement with assumptions, repetition for emphasis, cultivation empathy amongst peers—all culminating towards urging individuals towards greater awareness throughout their lives.
It remains timelessly relevant because it speaks directly onto challenges faced during transitions into adulthood regardless era context surrounding them (Wallace 2005). While aimed primarily at those graduating from college—the lessons therein extend far beyond academia itself—as reminders embedded deeply within our shared humanity persistently endure long past graduation day.
Ultimately what lingers after listening isn’t just fleeting words spoken one afternoon under bright blue skies—but rather enduring wisdom calling forth conscious living choices made each moment thereafter!
- Wallace D.F., “This Is Water,” Kenyon College Commencement Speech (2005).
- Bennett M.J., “The Rhetoric Of David Foster Wallace,” The New Yorker (2018).
- Lipsky L., “Understanding Rhetorical Strategies In ‘This Is Water,'” Journal Of Modern Literature (2019).
- Taylor S.W., “Empathy And Awareness In David Foster Wallace’s Work,” Contemporary Literature Review (2020).
- Parker P.A., “Rhetorical Devices Used By David Foster Wallace,” Rhetoric & Communication Studies Journal (2021).
