Back in the day, the art of letter writing was a rhetorical rock star, living its best life in classical times. Rhetoric was all the rage, and Aristotle himself defined it as "the faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion" (Cerku, 2023). Letters from this era were like rhetorical smoothies, blending ethos (credibility), pathos (emotion), and logos (logic) to craft messages that would stick with the recipient like gum on a shoe.These letters were not merely a form of communication but a carefully constructed performance, each word chosen with intent and precision. The ancients understood the power of language, and their letters were a testament to their skill in weaving together elements of persuasion. They knew that a well-crafted letter could sway opinions, forge alliances, and even alter the course of history.

The classical period also saw the emergence of famous orators and philosophers who contributed significantly to the development of rhetorical techniques. Figures like Cicero and Demosthenes honed their skills in oratory and letter writing, leaving behind a rich legacy of texts that continue to be studied and admired for their eloquence and intellectual depth.

As Ashley Cerku once said, "Rhetoric is the art of using language to persuade, to inspire, and to move people to action" (Cerku, 2023). Reflecting on these classical masters, it's evident that the art of letter writing was more than just a mundane task—it was a revered practice that demanded creativity, intellect, and a deep understanding of human nature. The letters of this era offer us invaluable insights into the minds of their authors and the societies they lived in, serving as enduring reminders of the timeless power of words.