Rhetoric and Reality

 

Aristotle: 384-322 BC 

Rhetoric and reality are not similar

I am sure you will agree

But we somehow confuse the two

And this rather frequently.

 

Reality is extremely observable

While rhetoric is not

Yet, we set more store by the latter

Than by what is truly our lot.

 

Rhetoric wins elections

And accomplishes great sales

While on the back end of the oration

Reality shows it has failed.

 

When reality requires an explanation

Rhetoric usually complies

And in its readily persuasive way

That reality it denies.

 

 

Rhetoric holds greatest prominence

In politics and the church,

Here you will find its staunchest adherents

And a multiplicity of so-called experts.

 

Rhetoric trumps reality

With the promise that things will change

And if that change does not come about

You must not think it strange.

 

It will come if you believe

Though often none can tell when,

It is just a matter of your believing

And it will happen right then.

 

Rhetoric is the reality

It is more dominant than the real

And fools do suffer intensely

Each time that rhetoric fails.

 

 

However, that does not really matter

Since a promise is comfort to a fool

And rhetoric is the best teacher

You would find in many a school.

 

Let me hastily conclude this matter

And I will end it on this note,

When it comes to rhetoric and reality

Rhetoric will capture most votes.

 

Stewart Russell © January 13, 2021