Lauren Carbone 11-2
English III
Mr. Fiorini
February 23, 2009
Does writing have the power to enact social change?
“Don't tell me words don't matter. ‘I have a dream!' Just words? 'We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal.' Just words? 'We have nothing to fear but fear itself.' Just words? Just speeches?" - Barack Obama,
Just words? Is that all the compelling speech, I Had A Dream, Martin Luther King delivered spoke to us, just words? No, His single speech alone inspired the civil rights of people that are still in power today. It is words that bring meaning into peoples lives and gives them the motivation to bring upon changes and better the world surrounding them.
One of the obligations of a writer is to say all that he or she can to invoke change in the minds of their readers or listeners, as well as to deal with as much of the world as possible in language. It is possible for powerful statements and words coming from the deepest void in the heart of a person’s body to inspire others to act forth on resolving issues and providing them with the motivation to do all they can to make a difference. The statement by Barack Obama, presenting the idea that the words of multiple powerful speakers are indeed more than just words, is a strong example of how writing can enact social change. His statement portrays the crucial role things that are said have on individuals and how it allows you to express yourself in ways actions cannot. Great achievements have come to be due to the competence of speeches and effectiveness of the messages delivered from them. They have brought upon people’s freedom, rights and also provided hope that a difference CAN be made no matter who it is that dares to take that vigorous step forward.
Words are extremely powerful. Words being produced with a small drop of ink upon a thought produces that which makes thousands or even millions think. The words that produce these thoughts are what inspire the insight to develop what starts out as a single thought into an action. These actions have the ability to do wondrous things and allow people to find a voice deep inside of them they have yet to hear.
Your opening quote and closing statements were very powerful. Opening with a very good quote [one that I also used] set the tone for your response, while your closing wrapped up your response with a bang. This was a great job of showing that you really believed in what you were writing.
ReplyDeleteLauren [Telly] Your paper was really interesting, and there were a lot of statements that really struck a chord to me. Your particular word choice was really effective, and you really stress the idea of words being a tool that is powerful throughout your whole entire paper. Great Job, buddy!
ReplyDeleteLauren you open with a bold statement when you write: "One of the obligations of a writer is to say all that he or she can to invoke change in the minds of their readers or listeners, as well as to deal with as much of the world as possible in language." I wonder if all writers feel that they are obliged to write for change. Maybe they should...I'm not sure. What would you say to those writers who would say that they do want to do so or don't feel as though they can enact change through their writing?
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