At the start of the semester, I really had no idea what “rhetoric and civic life” really meant. I literally looked at the title of the class and searched each word’s definition to sort of piece together what it was actually about!
But throughout the course of the past few months, its definition and meaning has blossomed from a tiny, confused seed into a less-perplexed flower, still flourishing and pushing its boundaries into even greater heights. Perhaps someday it will even be a well-informed, thriving bush!
This class has pressed me in ways I never imagined. Public speaking, speech writing, and talking about controversial issues had never really interested me, so I never attempted to do it.
And, not going to lie, my performance in class wasn’t the greatest. I am not a polished speaker now, as I emerge from my first semester. Nor am I a perky rhetorician, quips at the ready, prepared to take on the world. But I’ve taken my first steps, and at least that means I’m going somewhere.
To current day me, “rhetoric and civic life” describes the basis on which we found our civility; it highlights the importance of hot-button issues and their discussion, as well as their importance within the community. It is a charge for something greater, a new direction of thinking and involvement, in which a person may stride. It notes that citizenship is so much more than just being a civilian, but that true civic life and a rhetorical mindset really go hand in hand.
It definitely would have been interesting to continue pursuing this line of education next semester. I’m quite sad that I’ll be missing out on it when I transfer to my new school. However, just from this semester alone I feel I have learned so much.
It definitely has influenced my perspective, and also my life. And for that, I am very grateful.
Is it convenient to talk at the moment?
I love your analogy about the development of a flower and how it’s not quite full grown yet. For me this semester got me thinking about some issues that will continue to develop in my mind as I get older; they can’t necessarily be ‘figured out’ now. More life experience will hopefully lend a deeper, rounder, more accurate understanding.
I’m sorry to hear that you’re leaving, Polly! I don’t know how much blogging we do next semester but I’ll miss reading your blogs as they were always encouraging and thought-provoking. I hope your transfer transition goes well and you will be missed next semester. All the best to you. -Carissa
I felt the same way about the course at the start. I even did the same for ENGL138H, as it’s about advocacy and deliberations. And it’s sad to hear you’re leaving :(. What school are you transferring to? And good luck!