Holiday Hope
Your comment:
- Read the background and transcript of the following exchange between Virginia O'Hanlon and Francis P. Church: Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus
- Analyze the rhetorical strategies that Church uses to uniquely reassure Virginia.
- Write an original, creative response of your own back to Virginia. I don't care so much what you say, but how you say it. If you were given Church's monumental task, how would you approach it? You can be funny, serious, lighthearted, etc. Choose the tone and examples that you think are most appropriate.
- DUE: Monday, December 6th at midnight
Comments to your classmates':
- Choose two of your classmates' letters. Take on the persona of "Virginia", her father, or another questioning child. What questions has your classmate cleared up? What questions are still lingering?
- DUE: Friday, December 10th at midnight
Church uses Logos, Ethos and, pathos. He was already a well known writer since he was the chief editor and people trusted him. He appealed to his audience by responding a letter to an eight year old little girl. He took the letter very seriously and responded in a very strong manner. His letter gives people a little spurt of happiness. He makes you want to believe in Santa Claus. Also if you don't believe in Santa Claus the Author makes you feel a little absurd.
ReplyDeleteResponse:
Dear Virgina, Three words, Santa does exist. How could you doubt his existence? He might just put on on his naughty list for that. He might leave a lump of coal in your stocking. I assure you he is real. Your friends do not believe in him, because when you do not believe he stops going to your house. He stopped going to your friends' houses a long time ago. I still believe in him and he comes to my house every Christmas. Be careful though, he likes kissing moms, once i saw my mommy kissing him. Also do not forget the cookies and the milk, he loves his cookies and his milk.The more cookies you leave him, the more presents he leaves under your tree. Why do you think he is so chunky? Also, if you don't leave him any cookies he is going to go ghetto on you and leave you some socks under your tree just to get back at you.
Don't get me wrong, he is a very nice jolly old man, he just loves them cookies. So, don't forget Virginia, Santa Claus is a real as you and me.
-Church appeals mostly to logic and the emotions and he proves to have a good character and credibility. Showing he is fully understands the rhetorical devices, logos, pathos, and ethos.
ReplyDeleteChurch has an expansive vocabulary and expresses himself very eloquently, so much so that while I was reading the article I found it hard to believe he was writing to a little girl.
He also uses a lot of language that appeals to the emotions. The reader knows he has good intentions and that reassures his credibility and character.
-Dear Virginia,
I understand that you little friends may not believe in Santa Claus, but that is no reason for you to stop believing in him. I will be completely honest with you, there once was a man just like Santa Claus. His name was Nicholas, and he had a reputation for secret gift giving, and that is where we adopted the idea of Santa Claus. I myself do not believe that there is a Santa Claus. But I am older and no longer have that childlike faith. I do though, believe in everything Santa Claus represents, charity, good spirit, and kindness of heart. Virginia, you are still young, it is far too early for you to stop believing something because of others skepticism. Just because you can't see or touch something doesn't mean its not real. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. And it's a wonderful thing, please Virginia keep your childhood. Don't grow up so fast, you have no reason to. Enjoy your childhood and believe what ever it is your heart tells you to. The spirit of Santa Claus, and all he represents, lives on in the heart of millions and that’s all the proof necessary of his existence.
Sincerely,
Karen
Francis P. Church uses a wide-ranging vocabulary that at first, made me think he was talking to another adult. He tries to reassure Virginia by comforting her and saying that although you are not always able to SEE something that does not mean that it is not always there. He appeals mostly to logos (logical thoughts) and seems to be truthful.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Although you may have never met me before, I truly hope that you hear me out, and try to understand my point of view. Just because your friends say that someone or something does not exist, it does not make it so. If you believe that Santa Claus does exist, then do not let anyone else deter you from that wonderfully child-like thought! It is what you believe in, and not anything that anyone can say should make you believe otherwise. Enjoy your childhood while you still can! I wish desperately [sometimes] that I could go back to those days. The adult world can be so frustrating, confusing and even scary, but we all learn to deal with it in some way. However, while you are still 8 years old, you do not need to worry about these perspectives of others-even if they are your closest friends. Santa Claus is well known to be a kind-hearted man who does nothing but good in the world. He brings toys to all the good boys and girls and brings joy and faith to nearly everyone. He is anticipated all year long and leaves behind good feelings and cheer when he departs.
Just remember what my overall message is: Don’t let anyone change your thoughts on anything! (unless it’s life threatening)
Yours Truly,
Amy
Church used logos in his response to Virginia's letter. He appears to logic when he shows examples on the reasons why Santa Claus is real. For example when Church responds,"In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him." This is an appeal to logic.
ReplyDeleteChurch also uses rhetorical questions to enforce his response. He says, "but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove?"
Dear Virginia,
The things that are no seen are the most memorable ones. For example, love cannot be ssen but it can be felt. Like when your mommy says that she loves you, you do not see a giant heart appear but you can feel it. Santa Claus is just like that. You may not see him as he is leaving your presents under the tree, but you can feel his presence when you open the first gift on Christmas morning. Whatever it is that the others say, your opinion is greater. Do not waste your time pondering about what other people have to say. Keep your head held high if you believe that Santa exists. Enjoy your childhood while it is still within your reach. One of the things that you cannot recover is the time after it is lost. Enjoy it.
Sincerely,
Maria Barajas
Church mostly uses logos and pathos. At first he starts off with logic and goes on about how if you can not see something it does not mean it is not real. So just because they have never seen Santa Claus that does not mean he does not exist. Then Church goes on to emotions and compares the existence of Santa Claus to the existence of love... He mentions how if there was not Santa Claus then there would be no poetry... He basically is trying to tell her that to not let go off Santa Claus because he is a special belief that should not be forgotten.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Just because your friends are telling you that Santa Claus is not true does not mean you should belive them. You should have your own thoughts and beliefs and not care what other people think or say. Also just because you can not see something that does not mean it does not exist. Santa Claus has never been seen but people do sometimes believe in him and with their faith miracles have happened on Chirstmas. Right now you are young and it is okay to believe in Santa Claus and the toothfairy and things like that. Later on you might change your mind with your beliefs but you will be sharing your faith with your children and telling them there is a Santa. You will give them something to look forward to and belive in. If you belive there is a Santa then there is a Santa and if you belive there is a toothfairy then there is. Once when I was little we call the toothfairy 'el raton' which means a rat and it would be our toothfairy. I would put my teeth under my pillow and there would be money the next day. Just keep believing.
Sincerely, Thalia
One of the rhetorical strategies that Church uses is personification. He says that Santa's existence is love. He then says, "Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond." Since love is not a living thing, he makes it seem as if it has human characteristics by saying that it could push something aside. Church also uses euphemism. He says the word "little" to describe Virginia's friends and the minds of man. Church is implying that they don't know anything.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Don’t begin to doubt your own beliefs just because your friends say so. If you believe that there is a Santa, you should keep it. You shouldn’t let anyone persuade you into losing hope or making you unhappy. Virginia, just because your friends say they don’t see Santa doesn’t mean he’s not really there. I mean, he has to deliver gifts to thousands and thousands of kids and in so little time, Santa has to work quickly. Don’t worry Virginia, if you believe in Santa, he will always be there for you.
Sincerely,
Lena
"There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished." This shows one of Miller's most used devices. He uses logos appealing to the logic of the child. The child knows that love and romances are feelings that without them, happiness would be extinct. He appeals to emotion by writing "Alas!" showing his own emotion to it.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
How dare you doubt in the person that makes you smile with all the presents that he gives to you? Santa Claus is part of your life and part of everyone's life, the way air is. Just because you can't see air doesn't mean you aren't breathing. In addition, Virginia, you have to be your own person. If your friends jumps off a building you don't have to do it as well. You can believe in anything you want to believe, you can be whatever you want to be. Keep breathing and keep believing. Be a child, be Virginia, be unique... believe in what you cannot see. Santa Claus will be real as long as you want it to be, as long as you keep believing. No one has proven him otherwise, so why can't he be real? Santa Claus believes in you, that's why he bring a you presents. Why can't you believe in him?
Love,
Abby Rios :)
Church uses Logos, Ethos, and Pathos to explain to Virginia that Santa Claus is real. His emotion towards Santa is shown through Pathos while he is trying to convince her. The Logos is used when Church includes logical ideas of a child, as in, "There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence."
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
How is your December this year? I hope all is well because, you know, soon enough your Christmas Tree will be filled with wonderful gifts from Santa. As hard as you try, you will never be able to see him, but that's the magic about it. He is real as you and I! We've all felt sadness and joy, but we have yet to physically see it even though it is as real as can be. Your little friends aren't always right and you can believe whatever your heart tells you. That is why you are so unique. My oh my Virginia, what would the world be like if he didn't exist? Why, it would just be madness! All the joyful children around the world would be suddenly painted with melancholy faces. So let the snow fall ever so swiftly onto the ground and let the sound of Reindeer prancing around on your rooftop be the soundtrack of your Christmas because Santa is sure to come.
Church mostly uses logos. To answer the question at hand he uses one fundamental idea. Just because you can not see something does not mean it does not exist. He uses fairies as an example," If you do not believe in Santa Claus then you do not believe in fairies"
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
I assure you that Santa Claus does exist. All you have to do is keep faith that he will give you presents every Christmas. Think about it Virginia if Santa Claus does not exist then why is there Christmas? There would be no need for Christmas if there was not a Santa Claus. The only reason your friends no longer believe in Santa Claus is probably because they are on the naughty list. I know Santa Claus frustrate me he is very real.There's a Santa and as long as you believe in him he will always believe in you, never ever forget that.
Sincerely,
Mauricio
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ReplyDeleteThe rhetorical strategies used in the text was mostly appealed to logos, ethos, and pathos. Francis P. Church is trying the best of his abilities to reassure to Virginia, does in fact, exist. The ethics that Church conveys plays a major role his his credibility. First off, he is considered to be a faithful author who writes for The New York Sun. There’s a least possible chance that an author would be willing to lie in a newspaper editorial, which is why his words hold a great amount of credibility by just the title he holds. Also, Church is the son of a Baptist minister. Considering this, the assumption that he grew up with the correct morals where lying a sin is made. The emotional appeal Church provides the audience is displayed in his sincerity. He explained to Church that Santa Clause does exist in the most practical reasons without lying to her. This sincerity shows that he respects Virginia’s question, but he chooses not to destroy her beliefs.
ReplyDeleteLiterary devices he uses are simile and apostrophe because Church compares Santa Clause to love and generosity. In other words, he is explaining to Virginia that Santa Clause doesn’t have to have a physical existence at all, but he is a belief that are given personified characteristics.
Dear Virginia,
How can I put this into the exact words? Santa Clause, whether he is believed in or not, does exist. He lives in the faith and the hope of young adolescents, such as yours. Not only young adolescents, but the many others who choose to believe in him. Santa doesn’t have to have a physical existence in the world to have much meaning and importance in a child’s life. If you believe in him, that hope will keep Santa Clause alive in your heart. If there was no Santa Clause, how would the holiday of Christmas hold any existence to our present day traditions? Let Santa know you will always have the faith in him warm in your loving heart because your opinion is the only one that matters most.
Sincerely,
Cherrie N.
Church uses mostly ethos, pathos, and logos. For example, he use logic in the way he says "Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world." Also, that he is showing his emotion in the article in what he really care. Plus, he is asking rhtorical questions that no one can answer but yourself. He use an emotion that people can relate to.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Let me start of by saying that it is great you are asking yourself this. By question if Santa Clause is real is part of growing up and maturing. First, there is that taught to believe that there is some one that comes in ever Christmas Eve. Plus it is not logical that someone can travle the world in one day. In addition, the answer to your question is that Santa Clause is not real. For a childhood memory your parents tell you this to be excited for Christmas Day. All in all if you do not lose your Christmas spirt then not will change on the way you view thing.
Sincerly,
Lisette
Throughout his letter, Church uses many rhetorical questions. This makes the reader feel silly of not believing in Santa Clause. The questions make the reader think of how there is no prove that Santa does not exist.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
I cannot believe you would believe such lies! Has Santa ever let you down? Have you found proof that Santa does not exist? I think not. You should listen to your heart and not care what the other children say. If you believe Santa Clause exists, then you should not listen to the other kids. They probably are in Santa’s naughty list. That is why they do not get any presents. On the contrary, you are on Santa’s nice list. The other children are jealous of you, because you are a good little girl. They want you to stop believing in Santa so you do not get presents. Virginia, always remember that Santa does exist! You cannot see him, but that is all part of his pan. He wants to see who truly believes in him. It is a test to show who the real nice children, that deserve his presents.
The main rhetorical device that Church uses is Logos witch means uses logic. Church says that just because you can not see someone does not mean they do not exist. Even though someone tells you something they believe that does not mean you are not entitled to your own opinion.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Look Virginia it was awesome to know that there was a santa claus that would give you presents for christmas. But I am sorry to break it to you kid there is just not a santa claus. You just have to face the facts VIrginia, why do you think your parents always ask you what you want just before christmas? Coincidence? I think not! Another reason why santa claus does not exist is how does he get into your house through your chimney if you do not have one!? The sooner you realize that santa claus does not exist the better.
Sincerley,
Alonzo Gomez
Church replies to the eight year old child in a very direct way.He simply says yes there is santa, which in a way apeals to the public therefor it is ethos.when church replies to the child he uses logical answers that kind of do make you wanna beleve in santa.when he would write to you he would make it seem as if he were talking to an adult.
ReplyDeleteRESPONSE:
Dear Virginia,
I am sure everyone has asked themself the same question "does santa claus exsist?".The answer to your question is "Santa does exsist".Even though people may tell you he doesnt he allways will.you have to remember that everyone has thier own way of thinking.i know many people say that he doesnt exsist, because you can not see him on christmas but thats what makes him even better because he is the person that brings christmas cheer to christmas.if christmas doesnt exsis then you might as well say that moey doesnt exsist.
sincerely,
marlyn
Accordin to church he uses emotional outlet and a broad vacabulary list tiwards virginia he also uses logos as in logic to explain to her that their doesn't need to be an actual Santa Clause it kan just be an act of kindness,generosity, and well-being of " Santa clause". He also tell her she is right that their is a Santa. Not everything can be proven.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
It seems as though you have doubts and curiousity of their is a Santa I actually believe their is not soo much as like a dairy tale but the well being of doing smetgobg for others, although your friends may not beleive. You can believe in your definition of Santa. As you may think in order to believe you must see , think about what you want to believ in. After all your only eight, your suppose to think things in achildlikr matter bit everyones going to believe what you say because they may not be your age. It all depends on you scenario of Samra clause we can all think back About what Santa Clause is really about, but we have to look at the bigger picture what did it originally came from? Generosity is what I think vriginka what do you beleive follow what you think is right and don't worry the doubts upon it.
Sincerly your friend,
Marissa :)
Francis P. Church uses persuasion to make little Virginia have spirit in Christmas. “Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus.” This is a good point in that there is no right or wrong. Virginia, having the little, spirited mind that she has, will believe the more positive outcome of this statement. Besides persuasion, he uses surrealism to enhance the visual of Santa Clause. “Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn?” The comparison he uses of the fairies, of course, has a fantasy effect. To have a fantasy, you must believe, and that is exactly what Church intended for Virginia to do.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Of course there is a Santa Claus. Why would the world make up such a lie? Have you ever seen anyone else put the presents under the tree? You are not supposed to!
I believe your friends are just jealous because they do not have that same warm feeling that people usually get when the Christmas spirit comes around. But you have the spirit, don’t you Virginia? You know what it’s like to have that holiday joy and enjoy it with family and friends.
So, don’t believe your silly friends because who will be the one that wakes up with the Christmas sprit and shiny presents under the tree? You. You will have the spirit and the presents because yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.
Yours truly,
Brenda Morales
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ReplyDeleteFrancis P. Church uses rhetorical strategies such as pathos, ethos, and logos. These things allow the reader to feel sympathy and warmth from Church. These emotions gives the reader insight to how much Church believes in this topic. His use of childhood beliefs appeals to the inner child of his audience and gives the audience a connection to the writer. Church also uses rhetorical questions that makes the reader think about how innocent a child really is. especially one as young as Virginia. He also uses a metaphor to compare how much these innocent beliefs mean to a child. He categorizes it with romance and enjoyment.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
It is hard to believe in something that many choose to give up on. Santa Claus exists in the simplest form, and that's in our hearts. He is what makes childhood so magical during Christmas. And even though, many forget about him, they will always have the memory of trying to catch him putting presents under the tree. Santa is forever a part of us, whether we choose to believe him or not. He is in our past, from when we are children and stay up late to see him, and when we are older, when we give our children something to believe in during Christmas. Virginia, to answer your question simply, you have to believe in Santa to make him real. He will always be there, even if you don't catch him.
Truly Yours,
Julie Tran
In Church’s letter, he treats young Virginia as if she is older than what she really is by appealing to ethos. His treatment to Virgina shows that he sees her as an equal and not as some silly little girl who confuses her imagination with reality. Church’s letter also appeals to logos, especially in this quote: “The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see.” It shows that children do not have to see Santa in order to have faith.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
When you think of Christmas, what runs through your mind? Presents, I might think! Lots of brightly wrapped packages in all sorts of shapes. Emerald green Christmas trees glowing with the shine of colorful lights. Red and white stockings hanging by the fireplace. And of course, cookies and milk for the jolly Santa Claus.
Honestly, what would Christmas be without Santa Claus? Without Santa Claus, there would be no Christmas spirit. With no Christmas spirit, there would be no gift-giving or caroling, no cookies and milk for Old St. Nick. Let me tell you something Virginia. Santa Claus is as real as you and me. He is the man who started it all. Christmas would not be Christmas without the values and morals that make up the holiday spirit. He has taught love, generosity, and compassion to the world so that everyone can spread the real meaning of Christmas. So even if you don’t see Santa Claus, remember that he is present in all of us. In your mother, in your father, and most importantly, in you.
Your friends may think differently about whether or not Santa is real. That’s all on them. The question for you is do you still believe in Santa Claus?
Yours truly,
Janna
Logos:The editor of "The Sun",before anything,starts off by saying that everyone in general have "little" minds.To support his opinion the author makes another comment about man in general being "small ants" which goes along with children and adults having small minds.It would make sense that Santa Claus is bigger than adults because in the eyes of children,its as if he is a superhero.Santa claus:goes to every house in the world in a night,he sneaks around houses but yet he leaves presents and joy as a sign that Santa Claus was there.
ReplyDeleteEthos:The author uses ethos by comparing and including Santa Claus to real human emotions.In the passage the author writes,"Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist".Does almost every child in the world know of love and generosity?Of course!The author knows that the child has experienced some form of love and generosity in their lives be it from a family member or a friend.
Dear Virgina,
Who told you those lies?!There is most definately a Santa Claus in this world.Did you tell them(whoever told you that Santa doesnt exist)that Santa is a human and humans are real?I would understand if you asked whether the Lockness Monster was real because he is not even a human or a tye of animal...but Santa?!That is absurd!Next thing you know yo are going they are going to tell you that there is no Superman!There is no proof other than he has been around for many years,since before your parents were born.Your grandparents know of Santa as well and they will tell you that there is a Santa Claus,dont you think that grandparents know everything because of their time on this world?Virginia,if they tell you again that Santa doesnt exist.You should ask,"Do you exist?" and give them the facts behind Santa.
Sincerely,
Eric :D
Church uses Ethos which appeals to credibility in his writing, because of the fact that he worked in at The Sun. He knew that people believe what they wrote,which is shown when Virginia's father says, “He said, ‘Go ahead, Virginia. I’m sure The Sun will give you the right answer, as it always does.’"
ReplyDeleteHe also uses Pathos which appeals to emotion. He says to her how her friends might not believe in Santa Claus and he gives an emotional reason of why they are not correct by saying, "Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see". This will make Virginia feel good inside knowing that nobody can't see Santa and everything she can't see may be real.
Dear Virginia:
You are very brave to write to The Sun newspaper. Most little girls would not do what you have done. I love that you are so committed to know and to find out if Santa Claus is real. Because you are so committed, now I will tell you that Santa Claus is real. He is real in your heart and soul. You want to know the easiest way to really know if something you have never seen, is real? Do you remember how in every Christmas morning, you wake up so exited with that feeling in your stomach, where you feel like you have thousands and thousands of butterflies are flying around in you. You feel tingly when you find your first present and you can barely control yourself from shaking out of your boots. You know that he is real when you open your present and you see that what you got is exactly what you wanted When you are done unwrapping all your presents you feel the spirit of Christmas, and the love of Santa over filling your heart. Virginia, and that, that is how you know if Jolly ol' Santa is real. Hopefully now you know your answer Virginia, Merry Christmas!
From your friend,
Janelle Mendez
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ReplyDeleteThe author uses Logos, by getting around this child "logically". When he infers that, if Santa Clause were not real then love is not real, so thefore, since there is love then there is a Santa Clause. His word choice is not necessarly for a child. In his intention of doing is, so that the child will have touble reading it, and will as her parents to transalate everything for them. That way the parent will bascially have to tell them about Santa Clause's exsitence.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Santa is real, and always will be. If there were no Santa Clause, then there would be no Christmas. One day you will grow older, and understand the true concept of our magical friend, Santa. But until then all you need to do is, leave thos delicious cookies for Santa. Oh, and do not forget his milk! Keep believing, and he will keep dropping off the presents you deserve. Just remember that if you stop believing, the magic will disappear, and he will stop giving you presents. Your friends only tell you that because their parents give them presents, and not Santa. Well Virginia, go on and write your lietter to the chubby man beofre its late!
Sincerly,
Alejandra
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ReplyDeleteSome of the rhetorical strategies that Church used was pathos, logos and ethos which helps the reader feel were Church is coming from. The way that he uses examples of his childhood was a very good add on. He also compared not believing in Santa Claus is the same as not beliving in fairies which most little girls at that age belivies in.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Santa Claus exisit as much as you want him to. I know with your friends telling you that he does not exist makes it hard for you to believe, but you know what they only say that because they are mad that you do believe so much. Yor friends proablly get coal in their stockings every year while your is filled with deliciuos treats. Well Virginia make sure you make him his favorite snack, mlik and cookies and write your list of gifts that you want and send it to him. Dont forget Virginia as soon as you stop believeing Santa will be no more.
There are many rhetorical devices used in Church's response. One of them was his choice of diction. He talked to Virginia as if she were an adult. Church used a lot of sophisticated words, for talking to a little girl. I believe he did this to make Virginia seem important. Church also uses rhetorical questions. Like when Church asks Virginia if she has seen faries. Church did a very good job letting Virginia know Santa Claus is real.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
It is very shocking that a girl your age has some doubt in Santa Claus.How can you doubt the man who never fails to put Christmas presents under your Christmas tree?! Santa is a very cool guy, I got to meet him once. This happened one late afternoon on Christmas eve. I was very depressed because my family and I were going to have a sad Christmas. We didn't have any money for presents nor for a feast to have on Christmas day. So as I was sitting outside wondering how I can make a good Christmas I see a huge sled crash in my backyard. Guess who it was? Yep, it was Santa Claus! He was badly hurt and his sled was a mess!I felt bad that his sled broke, so I called my dad outside to help Santa fix his sled, while my mom fixed his suite and gave him food. After doing that Santa said thank you and asked if we wanted anything in return and of course we said no. On Christmas day, my little brother woke up and let up a huge scream. Santa left lots of toys for all the little ones and a huge breakfeast for my family. Since that day I believe in Santa Claus and always will. You should believe him because he never fails to make us happy.
Sincerely,Nancy Luis
In this response to a letter, Virginia is addressed in a kindly manner that is both respectful and sweet. She has an extensive amount of logos in this passage. Pathos is also used and just helps logos better pass on the message. Church gives a myriad of examples to back up his idea about things that can or cannot be proven. He encourages her to believe what she wants to believe and have no one else change that.Ethos is not used as much as the other two, but also helps balance out the three rhetorical devices. Bathos is used throughout the whole response to that question Virginia had. Bathos helps out ethos and pathos by overexaggerating everything, but making it sound just fine.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
What do you think of when you hear the word Christmas? Colorful and beautifully wrapped presnts? Family? Holiday cheer? Many things can run through your mind. For children, such as yourself, Santa Clause is the best thing about Christmas. Santa is totally real and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. He comes to visit you at night and leaves all the presents you have asked for. People who tell you he does not exist only say that only to make your Christmas miserable. Don't let anyone ruin the christmas cheer for you, don't ruin any others either.
You stay up some days wondering when he will come and the excitement fills you with joy. You make cookies and leave milk out for him. Waking up in the morning and you find no cookies and an empty glass excites you that much more. You think, "Santa came, Santa came!" This is what Christmas is all about, the joy it brings you, believe in what you believe and it will keep you happy.
Happy Holidays,
Sandra Sanchez
Church uses logic to prove his opinion on why Santa is real. Church also use an expensive vocabulary that makes himself sound like if he were an adult.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Do not listen to your friends. Although they do not belive in Santa Clause, that does not mean that you can not.Your friends are just jealous that you are in the good list and they are stuck in the naughty list. Santa Clause does exist, dont listen to anybody that is trying to convince you that he doesnt. Be proud and have pride in what you belive in. Keeps your hopes and dreams alive, and enjoy your childhoo while you still can.
Sincerely,
Jovani Campos
In the letter that Church has wrote to Virginia, he has used rhetorical strategies such as personification and surrealism. “…man is a mere insect, an ant,” Church compares people being ants which are a rhetorical strategy, personification. Church uses fantasy images, “Did you even see fairies dancing on the lawn?” Church uses Surrealism when he talks about fairies.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Santa Claus is real and Virginia you should not let people change your mind about him being real or not. If people start telling you he is not real, do not believe them when you know it is true, Santa Claus is real! Think about why would your parents or even the world would even lie about Santa Claus? There is a reason why your parents tell you to write a letter to Santa every year, so Santa can give you presents that you wanted. What other reason why your parents make you write a letter? Ignore what other people say Virginia. I know you are a good kid, you know you will get that gift that you wanted and you also know what those “non-Santa believers” will also get for Christmas. (coal) ;]
Sincerely,
Morban
Church uses many rhetorical devices to convince Virginia that Santa Claus is real. Diction is used throughout the article, because Church's expanded vocabulary makes him sound more convincing. He also uses pathos to appeal to Virginia's emotions and make her believe that he is telling the truth. An example of pathos is "there would be no childlike faith then, ni poetry, no romance..." he wants her Santa that Santa is real by bringingnup these topics.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Don't stop believing, those kids have obviously lost faith in Santa. It could be that Santa didn't give those kids presents because they were naughty that year or maybe they lost their faith in him. As you grow Santa will no longer give you presents because you will be an adult, but don't worry he will still look after you. Every year when is time for Christmas you will remember the times Santa never let you down and that is something you will not lose over the years, the memories. He will always be there even if it was for you as a little kid, your children, or your grandchildren. So don't forget to put your stockings up and leave a plate for cookies for him; just don't leave the door wide open he has fun coming down the chimney.
Sincerely,
Lizbeth
Francis P. Church uses many methods of persuasion to persuade Virginia that their is a Santa Clause. Church uses reasoning that even this your girl can understand. He aslo compares Santa Clause to many realistic objuects like poetry.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
I sincerely hope you have been a good cookie this year. I remember one of my friends stopped believing in Santa Claus and that Christmas he didn't recieve any gifts. Virginia Santa Clause is as real as me. If I wasn't real you wouldn't be readin this. If you weren't reading this then you wouldn't be doubting the existence of Santa Clause.
Believe me and start cleaning you house. Santa Clause is always watching you and he knows what you are doing every minute of every day. Hope you have a Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas,
Bhavin Jndal
Sorry for the typo
ReplyDeleteChurch uses many rhetorical devices to convince Virginia that Santa Claus is real. Diction is used throughout the article, because Church's expanded vocabulary makes him sound more convincing. He also uses pathos to appeal to Virginia's emotions and make her believe that he is telling the truth. An example of pathos is "there would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance..." he wants her to believe that Santa is real by bringing up these topics.
Francis P. Church uses hislogic reasonings to answer Virginia's question. He placed emotions and uses reasons to keep faith into Santa Clause. Church is kept responsible into the child's hope, and so he uses moral and intellectual meanings through Santa Clause. He also carefully chose his words to send the message that Santa is real. Church wants to stay on topic and to get to the point by using word choice and emotions.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
People say seeing is believing, but I beg to differ. Strange thins can happen unexpectedly and it creates curious thoughts. Sanata Clause is real. The only reason why people doubt is because they lose faith. Keep believing and maybe Santa would come down the chimney and say "Hello." Once the world loses hope, you can always be the one to remind them how to be joyful again. Merry Christmas Virginia, and a Happy New Year.
Sincerely,
Jenny Le
The persona of Virginia.
ReplyDeleteTO LIZBETH:
If you say Santa Clause is real, then do you also believe in him too? Many children have witnessed their own parents being the "big guy" and leaving gifts. How can you explain that? I, for one, truely believe in Sanat Clause, but can i persuade others to belive too? I agree that things can happen for a reason, and I think that you have taught me to keep faith. That is the only thing I can do to have hope. Actually, if I do see Santa Clause, I will tell him you said, "Hi."
The persona of Virginia's Father.
TO ALONZO:
I believe in only what is put out. If I can not see it, then i can not believe in it. Every Christmas, I feel guilty as to pretend to be Santa, and to look at my daughter's face, but she would have to be told the truth. What is the point in telling your children that Santa is real? Couldn't I just say that you get gifts every year from being good? No, children's dreams are too fragile to crush. I believe that the myth of Santa Clause is the only thing that can keep children from bad judgements. I believe that there may be a Sanat Clause, but you have stated there is not. Maybe you have lost faith, but I am not to judge. I also have lost hope because I knew the truth.
@ Alonzo Gomez:
ReplyDeleteDear Alonzo,
You are right, the sooner they know the better. However, she’s only eight! How can you tell her there is no Santa Claus? You might as well take away her sprit for all holidays.
During this stage in a child’s life, they need something to believe in. you basically have ruined Christmas for the rest of her life. Her mind might be traumatized by remembering your letter every Christmas. Her kids might not even have something to believe in because you have forced her to believe that “the sooner you realize that Santa Claus does not exist the better.”
Worst of all, that letter was viewed by everyone! Of course you knew that and felt it was ok to ruin Christmas for all kids that read the newspaper. You have not only told Virginia that Santa Clause does not exist, but you have told all little kids. So forget what I said about ruining Christmas for the rest of Virginia’s life; you’ve actually ruined Christmas for the rest of EVERYONE’S life! I hope your Christmas will be just as good as my daughter, Virginia.
—Virginia’s father.
@ Morban!:
Dear Morban,
Thank you for helping Virginia furthermore believe in Santa Clause. Thanks to you, she can stop having those boys and girls out negative tings in her mind. You have strengthened her spirit.
I’m sure you recall that she is only eight years old. However, what about when she gets older? You are leading her to believe that Santa Claus is real for the rest of her life. How will I break it to her in the future? Should I just let her find out like the kids who are telling her there is no Santa Claus?
Surly later on, she will find me to be a liar. Not only I, but also you will devastate her for having lied to her at such a young age. How do you plan to handle that?
—Virginia’s father.
Francis P. Church uses rhetorical questions, and metaphors as the strategies to reassure young Virginia.When Church says "In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge." Here he is comparing the thought of man to an ant in our world. He says that man is a small insignificant thing in this universe and the world is meant to represent the universe in the metaphor. What he is also trying to tell Virginia is that we as humans are bound to believe what we see instead of believing in what we feel. Then he goes on to talk using rhetorical questions, one of the rhetorical questions he used was, "Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn?" Of course no one has seen fairies at all but the point of this is that people still believe in them and so what's to prove them wrong? There is no evidence against Santa nor fairies being real. So he is just trying to let her know that it's ok to believe in the ridiculous.
ReplyDeleteChurch uses mostly emotion in order to show the reader his pont of view. He speaks to the little girl as if she is older than just eight years old.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
Santa only exist if you simply let him. Its sort of like how the dollar bill says "in god we trust,"because alot of people dont believe in him either,but he is a figure that everyone knows of. Some people wonder how santa has time to put all the presens in houses all over the world and be able to fit in our chimneys, but if these thoughts make us not believe, should we just not celebrate any holliday? Of course not! The world would be no where close to the same if we didnt! so i gues its just up to you wheher you want to believe or not.
sincerely,
sahara=)
The church uses logos, pathos, and ethos. Logos when he starts to talk about,"Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there", he just gave an example and explain it. Also, pathos because he talks about how in what he defends his dreams and thoughts. Ethos because he believes in Santa Clause.
ReplyDeleteDear Virginia,
I heard that you are having some thoughts about Santa Clause, is he true or not. I will tell you something to think about and yo remember;you see and believe with your heart not with your eyes. You are very young so you must keep believing Santa Clause. He is like your sugar in your Christmas cookies and will bring warmth like a fire places. He is wonderful and caring man that always brings joy to you when you are down. You should believe in him because he is good to believe in.
Sincerly,
Jazzmin Villasano
@ Alex G.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you were are stateing. You cleared up some of the rhetorical strategies that were being used. Your response back to verginia was very creative. The tone you used was brilliant for the response.
@ Bhavin
You are right when you said that church uses many methods of persuasion to persuade virginia. Your response to virginia was very original and creative. I enjoyed the tone you used.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteDear Jeremiah,
ReplyDeleteIt does make it hard to keep believing in him when my friends don’t believe in him anymore. But do you believe he exists, Jeremiah? Or is your stocking full of coal too?
-Julie
Dear Curly Karen,
ReplyDeleteAre you saying that because you are older, you can stop believing Santa Claus? I didn’t understand that there was an age limit to our faith. But I completely understand about not growing up too fast; my mommy and daddy say the same thing. Santa Claus is real. And I won’t stop believing in him until someone proves me wrong.
-Julie
The persona of Virgina
ReplyDeleteTo Brenda R.
Thank you a lot of clearing up my mind. Now I no in my heart that santa clause is real. Also Brenda you telling me I was on the nice list made my day. I no no more question becasue you cleared them all up.
the persona of Virgina's father
To Morban:
I like that you told her that Santa Clause is real. One thing i dod not like was that reason of the letter was for her parents to get them somthign. she is only eight anif you tell her that she will start belive ing thing like that. Why tell a little eight that there is no Santa Clause.
2 sahara: The father
ReplyDeletedear sahara,
I like how you used the example about god an how people use him as an example of somthing that is "existing".My daughter has been asking me this question for some weeks now and i didnt know how to aswer it but to as a professional advicer.thanks to you my daughter seems to be under control and believes in santa again.
thank you very much!
2 Bhavin: another questioning child
i think you forgot a little of detail on how to answer to virginia and tell her why she needs to believe you.o one hand it could be a good idea to give her a little of info on if he exsist or it could be agood thing.other than that i like how you used simple words to help her inderstand.
@Alonso:
ReplyDelete-personna of Virginia-
To Alonso:
You were really blunt and it sounds a little too harsh. It was sad for me to read this letter, but I guess the way you wrote this is the best. You directly said there was no Santa. Although it did surprise me, I am happy that you didn't go around the truth. I think that it really is best that you told me instead of saying things that would keep my hopes up and probably hurt me more in the end.
-Virginia
@Brenda:
-personna of Virginia-
To Brenda:
You really helped keep my hopes up. After reading your letter, I am thinking that you could be right. Maybe Santa doesn't come my friends house because they are on the naughty list. You made me really happy and reading this letter made my day. Thanks for bring back my hope for Santa.
-Virginia
@ Curly Karen
ReplyDeleteThank you for writing back. I think I am going to keep believing in Santa Clause. Even though other people and you do not believe in him, I know he is real. He comes to my house every year and brings me presents, because I am a good little girl. I don’t understand why you don’t believe in Santa Clause. What happened to make you stop believing in him? Did he stop giving you presents? Can you tell me more about Nicholas? Who was he? What did he do?
Sincerely, Virginia
@ Janna
You made me remember that without Santa Clause there could be no Christmas. I can’t believe I ever doubted he did not exist! I feel silly to have ever believed those other kids. I will never again doubt that Santa does not exist. Thank you for clarifying Santa’s existence.
Sincerely, Virginia
Dear Alex,
ReplyDeleteYour assurance has convinced me that Santa Clause is real. :) If he wasn’t, how is he described as a chunky, jolly man by many? Of course, if it was a lie, it wouldn’t have been able to catch on around the whole globe... Would it? I’ll be sure to inform my mother of Santa’s dirty secret. Also, I’ll be sure to bake as many cookies as I can with all the flour my parents recently bought. I’m hoping to wake up to presents under my tree. If I don’t, don’t be surprised to receive another letter from me.
Sincerely,
Virginia
Dear Alonzo,
So it’s true? Santa Claus doesn’t exist? I’ve been receiving many contradicting statements by elders whom I have asked. Some say yes, while others say no. However, you write for The Sun, so I must trust your words; father says so. My belief in Santa Claus have not been completely destroyed because I have heard a lot about you people. I’ve been told that individuals that have hold no faith in Santa are scrooges. You sir, may be a scrooge. So, I ask you one more time. From true honesty. Does Santa Claus exist or does he not?
Sincerely,
Virginia
To Lena:
ReplyDeleteHi,my name is Virginia.Thank you for helping me get back my faith in Santa Claus.Its really hard to believe when everyone around me is doubting of whether you are real or not.The only problem is keeping my faith in Santa for as long as possable.
To Alonzo Gonzalez: Virninia's Father
ReplyDeleteWhy do you have to tell that to my daughter?!She is young,and Santa Claus is one of her only idols that she looks up to.Dont you remember when you yourself believed in Santa Claus?You can remember the great times you had just waiting for the presents to show up and you are just taking that away from her.I hope that you are happy!
To Marlyn: As Virginia's Father
ReplyDeleteTHank you for helping my daughter believe in Santa again.It is really touching to see people perform acts of kindness to spare a person's feelings.Sparing my daughter's feelings makes it even more touching...thank you.
To Jazzmin:As Virginia's Father
Its funny how my daughter came to you for a very important question about whether Santa Claus is real or not.You made her believe in Santa.I enjoy how Virginia is,she makes me smile everyday.Virginia was not her usual self when she had doubts about Santa and now she is normal and more Virginia than ever.Thank you!
@ Julie
ReplyDeleteHave there ever been a time in your chldhood were you did not believe in Santa.
Sincerely,
Virginia
@ Brenda
My daughter has caught me putting presents under the tree but i just toild her that Sants was in a rush and did not have time to put the presents under the tree so he asked me to do it , is that a good excuse.
Sincerely,
Virginia Father
@Jeremiah:
ReplyDeleteDear Jeremiah,
Thank you for clearing out my doubts, You made me believe in Santa more than ever. With this I know that the more I believe the more he can tell that I know of him, and I know that his spirit will be alive. The only thing that did confuse me though was the last sentence, "Don't forget Virginia as soon as you stop believing Santa will be no more.", I am not doubting, but more just makes me think aside, if he will leave someday and because of that, there wont be anymore spirit. Hopefully he is here to stay.
Sincerely:
Virginia
Dear Jacqueline:
Thank you for explaining to my daughter so well, to believe what her heart is telling her to believe. You put it in such ways that a girls imagination starts to run wild and her heart starts filling up with joy, she starts to get exited to think about the fact that Santa will be going inside our house to leave the presents under the tree. Thank you! Thank you for bringing hope, and happiness to my questioning daughter, because of you, you are keeping the only thing that keeps the holiday spirit in our household! Merry Christmas, and thank you for the gift you have gave my daughter.
Sincerely:
Virginia's father
Dear Jacqueline,
ReplyDeleteMy December was fine, thank you for clearing any doubts I had about Santa. We were just packing our Christmas Tree away and you were right about Santa filling our tree with many gifts. I started ignoring my friend's comments because they are not always right; the other day my friend told me that chickens don't come from eggs. I realize that I don't need to see Santa face-to-face to believe in him. I cannot imagine a world about Santa, but is Santa immortal? Would he always give me gifts even as I grow up? I don't mind if he stops giving me gifts as I grow but I do want my children to experience the joy of the Christma's spirit.
Sincerely,
Virginia
Dear Brenda R.,
I feel guilty about any past doubts I had about Santa. He has never let me down the past eight years. From your letter I learned a very valueable lesson, which was not to listen to another person's claims when they didn't had any proof. These two girls, Betty and Abigail, started saying Santa wasn't real. Recently I heard their mother tell my mom that on Christmas morning she found two mysterious gifts for Abigail and Betty, they both received coal. I felt happy that their was some proof that Santa was real, but I little guilty that they received coal and that I was happy about it. If there is proof that Santa is real should I trust it? What if there is proof that claims that Santa doesn't exist?
Sincerely,
Virginia
(Posting for Aldo Adame) - Late
ReplyDeleteA) From the looks of this, this passage is changing perspectives as it goes on. The Author seems to use Imagery as she describes how Christmas was like when she found out that there was no Santa Claus .This passage is very descriptive due to the fact that she is describing the events in a formal and understandable matter. The author’s punctuation looks good and has a couple of formal words in it. The tone of this letter would be of sadness because she states how she felt when she found out that there was no Santa.
B) In my opinion, I think that your hopes for believing in Santa were going to end someday. I don’t know why people get so frustrated over knowing that Santa Claus doesn’t exist. My advice for you would be that once you grow up things would start to be moreclear.
(Posting for Aldo Adame) - on time
ReplyDeleteAlonzo Gomez
I really agree on the fact that Santa Claus doesn’t exist, but you didn’t have to be so harsh with Virginia. I think that there could be some ways to tell this to her without being so mean. Another thing that I think you screwed up on would be the fact of telling a little 8 year old girl that Santa doesn’t exist that is like taking a big chunk of happiness out of her.
Jovani
You did the right thing in keeping Virginia’s beliefs alive. I think you kept this mature; I would have done the same thing too. My question for you would be that when your kids grow up how are you going to tell them that Santa Claus doesn’t exist? I think is true what you said about those girls being Jealous and try to spoil Virginias childhood.
Dear Jacquline,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to thank you personally for explaining to my daughter the true meaning of Santa Claus and Christmas. Maybe if she hears it, not only from me but others as well, then she will be more inclined to listen. Thank you again. It may have helped me more than you could possibly know.
Sincerely, Virginia's father
Dear Jazzmin,
I wanted to thank you for helping my daughter believe in Santa Claus again. When I gave her an answer to the same question that she asked you, it seemed to me as if she wasn't satisfied with the answer I gave her. She did not seem to be the same, happy, bright little Virginis that i have raised. I just wanted to thank you again.
Sincerely, Virginia's father