Rhetorical Analysis: Gift from the Sea

Through the utilization of passionate diction, depressing figurative language, and deceptive syntax, Anne Morrow Lindbergh describes the benefits and effectiveness of applying oneself to isolation, thus revealing the importance of seeking solitude. In order to illustrate the benefits of the “practice of the art of solitude,” Anne Morrow Lindbergh uses a variety of passionate diction, such as “quality,” “incredibly precious,” “richer,” “vivid,” “whole,” and “complete.” These words clearly demonstrate how embracing solitude generates one into a completely different person, as it paves way for a pure and replenished soul. Not only that, but solitude also makes one’s life more meaningful and mellifluous. Furthermore, through the employment of depressing figurative language, Lindbergh asserts that “Parting is inevitably painful, even for a short time. It is like an amputation, I feel” (36).

Through the usage of this simile, it illuminates that even though separating oneself from his/her loved ones can be extremely agonizing, “…there is a quality…that is incredibly precious. Life rushes back into the void, richer, more vivid, fuller than before” (36). By stating this quote, she declares that seeking solitude pays off in the end when taken necessary risks, to form a purposeful life. Lastly, Lindbergh’s application of deceptive syntax, such as dashes in between sentences and a plethora of commas, introduces new ideas and creates pauses to show calmness, implying that solitude mollifies our inner soul. With these rhetorical strategies, Anne Morrow Lindbergh transfers passion to the reader, thus allowing him/her to experience the nature of being solitary.