Response to Poulakos and MLK

Poulakos states that one of the most important parts of rhetoric is timing. Martin Luther King Jr. recognized this and was given a perfect opportunity to use his skills. King points out that the African-Americans have been struggling for 340 years; however, if he had lived earlier during this struggle he would not have been taken seriously by many and would not have been able to have such an impact. King took advantage of the opportunity given to him; however, he also had a great talent for using rhetoric. His “Letter from Birmingham Jail” expresses his great ability. In this letter, King makes great use of logos, pathos, and ethos. He uses many logic arguments including his “four basic steps” to a non-violent campaign and his discussion of just laws. I personally feel that this is his most successful argument for defending his illegal actions. King also uses an extremely effective example of pathos with his discussion of children. He uses many examples that touch the hearts of the readers to return them to his cause. His use of pathos was probably the most effective part of this letter.
Lastly, King establishes his ethos in many ways. First, his being a black man allowed him to experience the discrimination firsthand. Also, his being a minister gave him the religious background that he needed. King’s credibility was also increased because he was in jail for having truly practiced what he believed. King also chooses to refute his dissenters by using true examples and valid arguments, rather than simply getting defensive of his actions.
Success is when opportunity and preparation meet; King make full use of this statement. He was obviously prepared with this rhetoric skills and then was presented with the perfect opportunity to make use of these skills.