The ‘Crisis at Christmas’ pamphlet persuades the reader to donate through its use of language and punctuation. Varied font colour, paired with the letter format, attracts relatively wealthy adults with the ability, and potential desire, to give money to the less fortunate.
Aiming to persuade, the pamphlet begins by flattering the recipient, addressing them as “friend.” This subtly compliments the reader’s personality, instilling a sense of familiarity and trust, which reduces the letter’s commercial quality. Consequentially, one is more likely to view ‘Crisis at Christmas’ as a charity, instead of a business. Throughout the article, flattery is used frequently to remind the potential donor of their compassion, encouraging further generosity.…show more content… The pamphlet describes Christmas as the “hardest time of all,” causing the recipient to inadvertently consider the virtues of their own situation, often resulting in a sense of obligation to help those who are less fortunate. The adjective “hardest” accentuates the privilege of the higher classes, and assures the reader of others’ severe struggles, without detailing the implied horrors. Exaggeratedly optimistic goals, including trying to “double” the charity’s efforts, evoke positivity and confidence in the ability of ‘Crisis at Christmas’ to rectify these problems, allowing the reader to alleviate their guilt by donating.
Uniquely, this pamphlet uses a rhetorical question as a title, causing the recipient to reflect upon their ability to help others before reading the letter. Guided by a clear purpose, one is more receptive to other persuasive devices, and, therefore, is predisposed to seriously consider the charity. After reading multiple emotional anecdotes, one is questioned again, allowing the reader to re-evaluate their previous decision. The rhetorical questions encourage self-reflection, which often evokes feelings of responsibility to help others, and
