Community Essay Martin Luther King, Thoreau, Anna Quindlen, and Jane Howard have different and similar views of community that has impacted society in various ways. Their views are the same, such as Martin Luther King and Jan Howard who stress community as people as a whole and in contrast, both Thoreau and Quindlen who stress the individual above society.
King was and still is one of the most influential heroes. King's views and beliefs, which were similar to the non-violent ideas of Gandhi, helped African Americans through the 50's and 60's obtain the rights and liberties that was their birth right. King faced many obstacles on his quest like jail and even assassination attempts. Despite these obstacles, he became a successful leader during the Civil Rights Movement, and even after his death, by guiding African Americans in a non-violent and positive direction for the fight to secure rights and equality. These reasons make Martin Luther King worthy enough of the title "hero." Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. not only spoke with purpose but also with a style unlike any others. He was an inspirational speaker and a motivational leader. Dr. King utilized his charisma and inspirational tactics to change the views and beliefs of a nation and to lead his people throughout their course of the civil rights movement. His personality consisted of every good characteristic needed of a leader. He was sensible at all times and his ability to clearly state his ideas and thoughts surrounding peace and equality in the United States. There were other rights movements going on at the same time that Dr. King was leading his peaceful rights movements. King spoke in an eloquent manner and his ability to persuade and inspire is rivaled by none. Martin Luther King Jr. lived an exemplary life and although it culminated in his assassination, the strides that Dr. King made for the civil rights movement and his numerous speeches that inspired a nation such as his “I have a dream…” speech, should never be forgotten nor ignored.
Anna Quindlen presents an interesting outlook on a volatile issue that has plagued or country for years. She appears to be voicing her opinion in an effort to bring reason and clarity to a confusing and emotional topic. To do this Quindlen uses personal experiences along with practical real life experiences. By using these different types of strategies Quindlen is able to achieve a greater influence over her audience. The primary purpose portrayed through Quindlen’s writing is the complete and all-encompassing celebration of life. Anna Quindlen says that people shouldn’t try to be perfect. In her speech, Quindlen attempts to illustrate the importance of living in the moment. She claims that a stress free life will make you happier than anything else. Quindlen makes remarks to the pressure we put ourselves under to be and stay perfect. Quindlen focuses on these elements of our lives because of everyone can relate to them. He commencement speech is meant for people entering the “real” adult world, and the speech is an attempt to help people recognize and realize what’s important in life. The speeches central idea is people’s attempt to be perfect. Quindlen goes above that though, by highlighting another element. Anna Quindlen’s speech is effective in the sense of inspiration and entertainment. She does a great job of establishing ethos, pathos, and logos by telling
