Tactical purpose:
An author may use an aphorism to speak the truth to the reader in a humorous or ironic fashion. Aphorisms get the reader or the audience's attention and can convey a relatable truth in very simple terms. Since aphorisms are generally very short and simple,it is much easier to remember and stick with an audience. Motivational speeches are situations in which the speaker may use an aphorism. Speakers use it to make it easier to understand and be relatable, keeping the audience engaged. An aphorism might help writers achieve the lesson they want to convey in very simple terms.
Steps for Analysis:
Identify the situation in which the writing presents itself. Usually in a motivational or inspirational context.
Determine the goal of the author in the text.
Identify the Aphorism by finding simple and figurative sentences that are easy to convey.
Here are some questions to ask?
Is there figurative, humorous, or ironic language being used?
If so, is there a lesson the author is trying to teach?
Example from General George Patton's Speech to the 3rd Army
“There will be some complaints that we're pushing our people too hard. I don't give a damn about such complaints. I believe that an ounce of sweat will save a gallon of blood. The harder we push, the more Germans we kill. The more Germans we kill, the fewer of our men will be killed. Pushing harder means fewer casualties. I want you all to remember that. My men don't surrender. I don't want to hear of any soldier under my command being captured unless he is hit. Even if you are hit, you can still fight. That's not just bullshit either. I want men like the lieutenant in Libya who, with a Luger against his chest, swept aside the gun with his hand, jerked his helmet off with the other and busted the hell out of the Boche with the helmet. Then he picked up the gun and he killed another German. All this time the man had a bullet through his lung. That's a man for you!”
Patton, George. "Speech to the 3rd Army." Genius, genius.com/Gen-george-patton-speech-to-the-3rd-army-annotated#:~:text=We%27ll%20win%20this%20war,the%20treads%20of%20our%20tanks. Accessed 7 Sept. 2022.
General George Patton’s Speech to the 3rd Army is one of the most popular motivational speeches, as it was a speech before the infamous and death-ridden D- Day. Through a stern assertive tone, he can inspire young men going into battle. Using an aphorism was essential in uplifting the morale and fighting spirits of the army. General Patton says, “An ounce of sweat will save a gallon of blood” this is a perfect example of an aphorism because he uses figurative language to teach a lesson. He meant if you worked hard in training or on the battlefield, your efforts will save more people. Instead of just saying “work hard to help your peers,” the figurative language he used can give a more powerful and impactful message.
Sydney S.