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Rhetorical visual analysis

Image

(Borgman)

Introduction

The struggles of today's youth in the United States are graphically shown in a political

cartoon by Jim Borgman. In particular, it demonstrates that they frequently do not have any job

options, while others may be pushed to join the military, thinking that it would generate at least

certain chances for them. Furthermore, this picture may be used to criticize government policies

that place a higher priority on military expenditures than on the growth in the economy and

citizen prosperity of the nation. The cartoonist mostly argues these points. Borgman makes a
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strong message about modern living and the prevalence of uneasiness in it via the use of vivid

images and evocative language. The creator focuses mostly on the paucity of options available to

young people in the United States. In 2003, when the nation's economic woes were only

beginning to surface and it was also involved in multiple overseas military activities, this cartoon

was drawn. Since the effects of the crisis are still being felt today, this is an increasingly pressing

concern for recent graduates from college and high school (Stephen et al. ch.3). Having a fulfilling

social life isn't always possible for them. It's hard to pin down who exactly this cartoon's target

audience is since it might be anybody with even a passing curiosity in the social, political, or

economic goings-on in the nation.

Body

One might say that Jim Borgman adheres to left-wing philosophy, which places an

emphasis on societal progress and equality. This cartoonist is very worried about how America

will change in the future. Two individuals in figure, one a warrior with an assault weapon and

the other likely a recent graduate, are seen in this cartoon's single image. Their features are not

shown in great depth by Jim Borgman. Clearly, these people are masculine. One may make the

case that this animation is quite accurate, particularly in terms of the characters' wardrobes. This

is meant to illustrate the fact that the two groups shown here are of quite different socioeconomic

status. One of them is a recent graduate who is perhaps carrying his diploma or résumé, whereas

the other individual is a young guy who selected the military profession.

They need to show the variety of paths open to American youth today. Some would see

higher education as a means of social advancement, while others might see the military as a

better option. The primary problem is that none of these choices can ensure a person's success.

The creator makes extensive use of visuals and language. The animation itself is not as
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significant as the message it conveys in text. In one instance, he adds, "I feel it's simpler to find a

battle than a career these days." It's possible to read this phrase as the cartoon's headline. This

comment exemplifies the challenge of finding one's professional specialty in the modern labor

market.

This is probably the most apparent argument that this picture includes. Jim Borgman's

style is both humorous and tragic; he draws caricatures of his characters, yet the reader can't help

but feel compassion for them. The creator does not allude to any specific individual or particular

event, yet one may infer that the creator portrays the lives of current Americans. There is also the

possibility of interpreting a subtextual meaning into this cartoon. To a considerable degree, it is

intended to prove that the administration is excessively obsessed with the military capability of

the nation, but not much consideration is being given to the financial wellbeing of the

inhabitants. As a consequence, degree holders are frequently unable to search for a job that may

best matches their abilities and expertise (Bush 1). Ultimately, Jim Borgman has succeeded in

conveying the anxiety felt by these individuals. The state's policies and initiatives contribute to

this scenario to a certain extent.

The use of pathos, often known as appealing to the emotions of the audience, is a highly

fascinating literary device. To begin, the voice of the warrior has a lighthearted and humorous

tone, which immediately puts the audience in an amicable and relaxed state. It is almost as if you

are asking people to unwind and take a light-hearted approach to the issues at hand, while at the

same time subtly requesting that they think deeply about the matter at hand. In addition to this, it

is essential to take into consideration the perspective that is offered with regards to serving in the

military. In American cultural values, serving in the military is traditionally regarded as an

honor; however, in this context, it is considered to be the last idea that a man might find to

prosper financially; explicitly, it is neither a privilege nor an obligation to serve his nation.

When it comes to logos, it is quite evident that the principles outlined in this cartoon are

not just reasonable but also practical. The real condition of the economy as well as the

competition for available jobs is a source of worry in this context. The manner in which the

government places a high priority on the significance of military matters and portrays the

military as the only government arm that has the financial security to give posts is one that is

subject to widespread criticism. Therefore, it is a real and sensible subject that contributes to the

process of convincing the audience. Additionally, the ethos of rhetoric cannot be disproved. The

originator's success as a political cartoonist has earned him a high level of reputation, which

instills trust in the observer.

Conclusion

So, it's safe to conclude that this cartoon provides Jim Borgman with a number of

opportunities to engage in rhetoric. Even though the creator does not ask for a particular reform,

he successfully illustrates that the existing scenario leaves something to be expected. Overall,

Jim Borgman's illustration is a great illustration of how visual and spoken communications may

communicate a substantial rhetorical argument and raise several important points. To make his

point, the cartoonist uses both pictures and words. Through this picture, the creator emphasizes a

few of the most critical challenges that might be confronted by young folks. So, this picture may

be considered as an exceptional instance of a satirical piece.

Lastly, I'd want to stress the importance of cartoons like this one in today's culture. And

not only as a means of diversion; they may also serve as a catalyst for conversation and
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introspection on issues that are often overlooked in our culture. More importantly, knowing how

to respond to issues like these is crucial. We may either examine them or ignore them on paper.

As an engaged audience, we may pick up on these subtle appeals in speech and counterpoints in

subtext and argue for our own perspectives. Being swept along by the current without

questioning its origins is a certain way to end up with a worldview that conflicts with our own.
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Work Cited

Borgman, Jim. I Figure It’s Easier to Find a War than a Job These Days. Cartoons. 2003. Accessed

from http://paulocoelhoblog.com/images/image-of-the-day/Borgman.jpg

Bush, Lawrence Ray. "Humor on Pause: How Political Cartoonists Satirize Tragedy." Mass

Communication & Journalism 5.3 (2015): 1.

Stephen, Hess, and Northrop Sandy. American Political Cartoons. Routledge, 2017.